It all began in 2017, with three hungry kids. Puleng and his two older brothers were the first children to receive a meal from what would later become the Walk A Mile In My Shoes (WAMIMS) Youth Centre based in Klerksdorp in the North West. At that time, there was no formal programme, just a simple desire to help children in need.
Like many children in their community, these three brothers often went to bed hungry, unsure of where their next meal would come from. But the first meal they received wasn’t just food—it was a symbol of hope. And as we all know, hope has a powerful way of spreading.
What started as a small act of kindness quickly blossomed into something much bigger. Within two weeks, over 30 children began arriving each morning for breakfast before school and many returned after school as well. Seeing the growing need, it became clear that this couldn’t be just a temporary fix—it had to be a permanent haven for children in the community. And so, Walk A Mile In My Shoes Youth Centre (WAMIMS) was born.
A Centre for Hope and Opportunity
Today, WAMIMS stands as a beacon of hope for thousands of children in the Klerksdorp area, ensuring no child goes hungry or unsupported. Beyond providing meals, the centre has transformed into a place of learning, growth and opportunity. It’s proof that even the smallest acts of kindness can spark lasting change in a community.
WAMIMS runs four key programmes that focus on empowering young people and equipping them with the skills they need to build a better future:
Feeding & Nutrition Programme – Ensuring no child goes to bed hungry. With a consistent supply of meals, children are nourished and given the energy they need to learn and grow.
After School Support Programme – Offering homework help and mentorship to guide children through their academic journeys.
Sports, Music & Arts Programme – Encouraging fitness, creativity and teamwork through sports, music and the arts, helping children explore their talents and develop valuable life skills.
Youth Entrepreneurship Programme – Equipping young people with the skills and knowledge to become self-sufficient, raising a generation of entrepreneurs who can build a brighter future for themselves and their community.
A Heartfelt Thank You!
WAMIMS Youth Centre’s growth and success would not have been possible without the support of generous partners, and one of those key partners is FoodForward SA said Brian Saul, Executive Director of WAMIMS.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to FoodForward SA for their consistent support in making sure our beneficiaries never go to sleep with an empty stomach. Your generosity continues to fuel hope and change lives.”
WAMIMS has been able to expand their reach and impact, making a difference in the lives of children who may have otherwise gone unnoticed. The centre has become a place where dreams are nourished, talents are discovered, and young people are empowered to create better futures for themselves and their communities.
A Future Full of Possibilities
The story of WAMIMS is a testament to the power of community and the profound impact that kindness can have. What started as a simple meal for three children has turned into a life-changing resource for many others. It’s a reminder that, when we come together to help those in need, we can create a ripple effect of hope that extends far beyond what we can imagine.