South Africa 🇿🇦: DJ Shimza Donates 3,000 School Shoes to Children in Need

 

Well-known DJ and music producer Shimza, whose real name is Ashley Raphala, has again proved to be committed to community development as he donates a record-breaking number of school shoes to disadvantaged learners as the year 2026 commences. He has donated 3,000 school shoes to disadvantaged learners.

Taking to his social media platforms to share images of the distribution process, Shimza showed his appreciation to the fans and companies who have enabled the initiative to grow from year to year.

“We were able to donate 3,000 school shoes this year, which is an improvement from last year’s 2,000 school shoes donated,” the DJ revealed. “It is that time of the year again. Thank you for being part of my life in all the endeavors I involve in; we are making a difference in the pursuit of education.”

For Shimza, handing out footwear means much more than a charity donation—it’s a deliberate educational investment. Through providing children with proper school attire and footwear, Shimza believes that the Shimuzic Foundation can curb absenteeism within schools, as well as prevent children from being taunted as a result of their appearance.

The project, which has become one of the staples in his charitable endeavors, sees a drastic rise compared to the number donated last year, which stood at 2,000 pairs. The "Hopeful Soles" project, usually driven by the profits from his annual One Man Show (OMS) happening on Christmas Day, is geared towards rebuilding the dignity and confidence among students in his hometown, Tembisa, and other surrounding regions.

The distribution events have traditionally been emotive sessions, with the local leaders and parents appreciating the artist as he "uses his decks to build the youth."

Staged the first "One Man Show" with the theme of raising funds for orphans.

Attained the milestone of donating 1,500 pairs of shoes.

Pivot to virtual fundraising (Robben Island livestream) during COVID-19 to continue to support local schools.

 Donated 2,000 pairs in collaboration with a number of foundations.

Breaks his own record by reaching 3,000 pairs.

“The Vinyl Assassin” still manages to keep up with his tight international touring gigs, as he shows that his presence in the township is just as important as his presence in the international Afro-tech scene.

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