By Buziwe Nocuze
The Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (Cata) in Cape Town is giving R30,000 to three teenage girls to travel to Botswana for the Miss Born a Star Africa pageant.
Each girl received R10,000 after they asked Cata for help to attend the event.
The money will cover their hotel and travel costs.
Lisakhanya Masika, 17, from Philippi wrote a letter to Cata asking for help.
“To be honest, I was taking a chance,” she said.
“I’ve heard a lot of bad things about the taxi industry and didn’t know they had a good side until I asked for help. I’m so thankful for what they’ve done. Without them, this trip wouldn’t be possible,” Masika said.
Sonwabise Ngcwangu, 16, from Old Crossroads also received help.
“I went to the association’s office with my mom. They asked us to write a letter, which we did, and then they donated the money,” Ngcwangu said.
“It’s my first time flying outside South Africa, and thanks to Cata, we can go. We promise to make the country proud.”
Her mother, Nokulunga Ngcwangu, said they didn’t know where to go for help, but Cata’s support changed their view of the taxi industry.
“Coming here wasn’t easy because of the bad things we’ve heard about the taxi industry, but we are so thankful for their help. Our kids can now represent the country,” she said.
Mnikeli Mgophe, Cata’s first deputy chairman, said helping the community is something they regularly do.
“Most people don’t know we give back. They only focus on the bad things about us. We couldn’t let these young girls miss out on this chance,” Mgophe said.
“Seeing young girls doing positive things makes us proud. They can set a good example for their peers, and we will continue to support them.”
The third teenager will collect her donation later. The pageant will take place on 28 September.
Pictured above: Cata in Cape Town donated R30,000 to three teenagers representing South Africa in Botswana.
Source: Buziwe Nocuze
