12/01/2026
Spotlight Story: Palesa’s Journey.
In 2010, when baby Palesa was just one week old she was abandoned by her mother and unable to be cared for by her father who struggled with alcoholism she had nowhere to go. That’s when Maria stepped in with no resources of her own, Maria took Palesa into her home and did whatever she could to keep her alive. She didn’t even have money for formula and fed her water from a bottle in those early days. But she gave her something far more powerful: safety, love, and a chance at life.
As the years passed, another challenge emerged. Because Palesa was not born in South Africa and had no birth certificate, she was not allowed to attend school.
Then in 2019, everything changed. Our co-founder, Grant worked tirelessly to find a way to get Palesa and two other children in Maria’s care into school. Using funds generously donated by our community, we hired a lawyer who helped navigate the complex process. And it worked. Palesa started Grade 1 that year, only one year behind. A miracle made possible by Grant's determination, Maria’s love and our communities support.
And now…can you believe it? Palesa started high school!
A massive milestone we are celebrating with so much joy and gratitude.
💛 A Beautiful Circle of Support
Around the time Maria took in Palesa, Virgin cabin crew began visiting her home, bringing formula, clothing, and money to help Maria care for Palesa and many other kids. Back then we were known as Africa Smiles, and the kindness of JT, Heidi and the whole Virgin crew helped lay the foundation for what our organisation Kindling is today. Their big hearts changed the trajectory of so many young lives. Thank you!
