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Pretoria Teen’s Matric Dance Fundraiser Inspires Community
A rite of passage made possible
For most South African teens, the matric dance is more than a school event. It is a moment that marks the end of childhood and the beginning of adulthood. Yet for many learners, the price tag attached to the evening is out of reach.
This was the case for 19-year-old Arthur Mathebula, a learner at Hoërskool Pretoria-Wes, who feared he would not be able to afford the expenses that come with the big night. Determined not to miss out, Arthur launched a BackaBuddy campaign asking for R2,500 to help cover the basics.
A story that spread further than expected
What happened next surprised even him. Within a short time, his fundraiser not only reached its target but more than tripled it, climbing well past R8,500 and continuing to grow as more people discovered his story.
“The support I received has been overwhelming,” Arthur said. “I did not expect so much love, and I am so grateful to everyone who donated and shared my story.”
His openness about wanting to attend “stunningly” resonated with donors who saw more than a teenager asking for a suit. They saw someone determined to stand alongside his peers on an equal footing, and they rallied around him.
Preparing for the big night
Arthur’s matric dance takes place on 2 October in Pretoria East. He plans to arrive in a black three-piece suit designed by a fashion professional, and he has already secured a date. What began as a simple campaign to cover his dance costs has now opened up new opportunities.
With the funds exceeding what he needed for the night, Arthur intends to invest in his future by paying for his driver’s licence, university registration, and savings for his studies.
More than one learner’s success
Arthur’s journey has become about more than just a suit. It has shown how ordinary South Africans can come together to support a young person with a dream. His story also highlights a reality that many families face every year: the cost of matric dances can be daunting, and without help, many learners are left behind.
Platforms like BackaBuddy are reshaping how young people overcome those hurdles, turning moments of need into stories of hope. In Arthur’s case, one teenager’s determination, combined with community generosity, has created not just a memorable night but also a stepping stone towards his future.
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: BackaBuddy
