Gugu (far left), Lauren, Sithule and Slindile wearing school uniforms.

The excitement that took place at the WhizzKids United Health Academy last Wednesday for World Peace Day still lingers with the staff and children of the Academy. It was truly a day filled with celebration of peace, sportsmanship, and excitement.  

Of course, the biggest story from the day that still emanates is the visit from our esteemed guests, the players of our local team, Maritzburg United Football Club. The children at the Academy are still talking about how awesome it was to meet Michael Morton, Kulegani "Chiilies" Madondo, Diyo Sibisi and Peter Peterson as well as coaches Ashwin Sutton and Ronnie Kanalelo. It is clear that the encouragement and advice the children received has been held in high esteem. We hope to have the photo of the children, staff, and Maritzburg United players framed on the wall soon. 

All staff at the event also took part in a fun spin on fundraising for the Academy. As directed by Neli, the staff was given the ultimatum to wear the school uniform from a local school, Mthethomsusha Primary School, or pay 5 rand for each article of the uniform not worn. It was a pretty even split for the number of staff that wore uniforms and the number of staff having to pay up. Needless to say, great pictures were taken and a few staff members got mistaken for students skipping school in the morning. 

Along with the uniforms, the Academy staff spent the morning in the kitchen baking muffins to sell for 2 rand. The muffins were delicious and sold the minute they left the oven. The kitchen was also busy preparing hot dogs for the children which nearly disappeared as quickly as the muffins. 

The day was a great success thanks to the Maritzburg United players, Peace One Day, the children who attended, the staff, and the security. And a special thanks to the rain, our uninvited guest. 

I’m sure the day will be talked about for weeks to come or at least until our next celebration- - our Christmas Party on the 8^th of December!