Cape Town – Award-winning DJ and music producer Ashley “Shimza” Raphala has once again stepped in to support underprivileged communities, donating 3 000 pairs of school shoes to learners through his Shimuzic Foundation.
The donation forms part of Shimza’s annual Hopeful Soles initiative, which aims to ensure that children from disadvantaged backgrounds are able to start the school year with dignity and confidence. The shoes were distributed to learners from various schools and children’s homes across Gauteng.
Sharing the milestone on social media, Shimza thanked supporters who helped make the initiative possible. “It’s that time of the year again. Thank you for your support in everything I do. Together, we’re contributing towards education and a brighter future in our communities,” he said.
This year we were able to donate 3000 school shoes growth from last years 2000 🙏🏾❤️ @ShimuzicF #HopefulSoles pic.twitter.com/vDpnx6g2Uc
— SHIMZA (@Shimza01) January 13, 2026
This year’s donation marks a significant increase from previous years, reflecting the growing reach of the initiative and the continued need within communities. Shimza has consistently emphasised that the project is about more than material support.
“Hopeful Soles is about more than just school shoes,” Shimza explained. “It’s about restoring dignity and giving children the confidence to walk into their classrooms feeling equal and prepared”,told The Citizen.
This year’s Hopeful Soles initiative reached 52 schools and children’s homes across Gauteng, including beneficiaries in Tembisa, Soweto and Mamelodi, with the handover taking place at the Rabasotho Community Centre in Tembisa on 13 January 2026.
This year’s donation marks a significant increase from last year, when 2 000 pairs of shoes were handed out, reflecting the initiative’s growth and deeper reach into communities with high need.
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
