The atmosphere at the Artscape Theatre Centre’s Marble Foyer was filled with excitement and community spirit as corporate teams, arts organisations and volunteers came together for the Peninsula School Feeding Association’s (PSFA) 7th annual Mandela Day Sandwich Making Challenge. Hosted in partnership with Fine Music Radio (FMR), the event celebrated the legacy of Nelson Mandela by inspiring people to dedicate their 67 minutes to making a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children.

Guests were welcomed by the vibrant sounds of live African music performed by the Jungle Theatre Company, setting the tone for an unforgettable morning. Following inspiring welcome addresses by Vasili Vass, Station Manager of Fine Music Radio, Marlene le Roux, CEO of Artscape, and PSFA Director Petrina Pakoe, PSFA Project Coordinator Alan Roberts briefed volunteers before the 67-minute challenge officially got underway.

The original goal was to prepare 4,500 sandwiches, but the enthusiasm, teamwork and determination of the volunteers far exceeded expectations. By the end of the challenge, an incredible 5,514 sandwiches had been prepared for distribution to PSFA’s partner community kitchens and early childhood development centres (ECDs), providing immediate nourishment to children in need.

Corporate Sector Steps Up

This year marked the introduction of a dedicated corporate challenge, with businesses invited to purchase a table of 10 for R10,260—enough to feed 10 vulnerable children for an entire school year through PSFA’s school nutrition programme.

In recognition of their generous support, PSFA Chairman Brian Benatar presented each participating corporate team with a Certificate of Appreciation and special gift.

Reflecting on the day’s success, PSFA Director Petrina Pakoe said:

“The spirit of Ubuntu was truly alive at Artscape. Seeing the corporate sector step up so tangibly alongside our creative community shows the profound impact we can make when we unite against childhood hunger. These 5,514 sandwiches represent immediate relief, while the generous sponsorships raised today will help ensure that children receive nutritious meals throughout the school year. Together, we are moving closer to a future where no child has to learn on an empty stomach.”

Thank You to Our Incredible Supporters

PSFA extends its heartfelt thanks to the corporate partners who embraced this year’s challenge:

• Mercedes-Benz Western Cape
• OUTsurance
• JTC Fund Solutions RSA
• Toshiba Cape Town

We also gratefully acknowledge the many organisations whose generosity and support made the event possible:

• Fine Music Radio (FMR) and Artscape for their valued partnership and the use of the iconic venue.
• The Jungle Theatre Company for the vibrant live entertainment.
• Blue Ribbon for donating 750 loaves of brown bread.
• Bidfood South Africa for the generous donation of peanut butter and jam.
• Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages for keeping volunteers refreshed throughout the morning.
• Joy Mila for providing event staffing and personal protective equipment, including hair nets, aprons and plastic gloves.
• APL Cartons for donating the boxes used to pack and transport the sandwiches.
• Banks R & L Hiring for the complimentary use of trestle tables.
• The dedicated volunteers from Cape Town City Ballet, Cape Town Opera, Artscape, G&S Cape Town, and members of the public who generously gave their time in service of others.

Every sandwich made represents more than a meal—it is a gesture of hope, compassion and solidarity. PSFA sincerely thanks everyone who dedicated their 67 minutes to helping fight childhood hunger. Together, we are ensuring that more children receive the nutrition they need to learn, grow and thrive.

The Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) extends its sincere appreciation to Fedics, a premier South African contract catering company and a division of the Tsebo Solutions Group, for its generous support of our nutrition programme and school kitchen operations.

As the Q2 winner of the Tsebo Employee Volunteer Programme (TEVP), PSFA was honoured to receive a R10 000 donation, along with bleach, hair nets, dishwashing liquid, and pot scourers. These essential items will help our food handlers maintain safe and hygienic kitchen environments while preparing nutritious meals for thousands of children across the Western Cape each school day.

We are equally encouraged by Tsebo’s commitment to community development through its School Cleaning & Hygiene Project, which equips disadvantaged schools with cleaning equipment, environmentally friendly cleaning products, training and independent audits to promote and sustain high standards of hygiene. This holistic approach creates healthier learning environments where children can thrive.

Bronwyn Damon, Programmes Manager at PSFA, expressed her gratitude for the partnership: “Food safety and hygiene are fundamental to the success of our feeding programme. Donations such as these not only strengthen our school kitchens but also help ensure that every meal is prepared in a clean and safe environment for the children we serve. We are sincerely grateful to Fedics and the Tsebo Solutions Group for investing in the wellbeing of our learners and supporting the important work of our dedicated food handlers.”

PSFA thanks Fedics and the Tsebo Solutions Group for their generosity and for partnering with us to create healthier schools and brighter futures for the children in our care.

Dennis Hutchinson, Human Resource Manager at Fedics Catering, and Keziah Golden-Singh, Talent and Resourcing Specialist – Coastal at Fedics Catering, presenting the donated cleaning materials to Chantal Crook, Donor Administrator at PSFA.

On Tuesday, 9 June 2026, the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) was honoured to participate in a special knowledge-sharing session hosted by WITH (Wholistic Interest Through Health), an international non-governmental organisation based in South Korea.

The session formed part of WITH’s Africa Regional Conference in Cape Town and brought together approximately 20 leaders and regional representatives working across the African continent. As WITH continues to expand its efforts to establish sustainable school feeding models in Africa, the organisation invited PSFA to share insights from its 68 years of experience in combating child hunger in the Western Cape.

PSFA Director, Petrina Pakoe, delivered a presentation highlighting the organisation’s history, guiding philosophy and operational approach to school feeding. She shared how PSFA has grown into one of South Africa’s most respected school feeding organisations, providing nutritious meals to thousands of learners while building strong partnerships with schools, communities, donors and volunteers.

WITH is a group of food and nutrition experts committed to improving global health through a holistic approach to community well-being. The organisation has successfully implemented sustainable school feeding and nutrition programmes in countries including Mongolia, Cambodia, Tanzania, Madagascar, Myanmar and North Korea. It is also recognised for its role in supporting the Mongolian government in institutionalising a national school lunch programme.

The delegation expressed a keen interest in understanding the factors that have enabled PSFA to sustain its impact over nearly seven decades. Discussions focused on the organisation’s operational strategies, community-centred approach and commitment to ensuring that children have access to nutritious meals that support their education and development.

The engagement provided a valuable opportunity for dialogue and learning, allowing participants to exchange ideas and explore practical solutions to child hunger. It also highlighted the importance of collaboration between organisations working towards a common goal: ensuring that children have the nourishment they need to learn, grow and reach their full potential.

PSFA is grateful to WITH for the opportunity to share its experience and contribute to conversations about sustainable school feeding across Africa. Together, organisations such as WITH and PSFA are helping to build a future where no child is prevented from learning because of hunger.

In celebration of Nelson Mandela Day 2026, the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) and Fine Music Radio (FMR) are inviting Cape Town businesses to take part in the Mandela Day Corporate Sandwich-Making Challenge at Artscape on Friday, 17 July 2026.

The event, which will take place in the Marble Foyer from 11:30 to 12:37 – symbolising the 67 minutes dedicated to service in honour of Nelson Mandela – forms part of the 2026 Mandela Day theme: “It’s still in our hands to combat poverty and inequity.”

This year’s campaign focuses on five key areas to drive sustainable change: food and nutrition, education and literacy, shelter, sanitation, and active citizenship.

Businesses are encouraged to register teams of 10 at a cost of R10,260 per table. Each table donation will enable PSFA to provide 10 vulnerable schoolchildren with nutritious breakfasts and lunches every school day for an entire year.

Participants will work together to help achieve the event’s target of making 3,700 sandwiches, which will be distributed to PSFA’s partner community kitchens across the greater Cape Town area.

In return for their support, participating businesses will receive an on-air mention on Fine Music Radio, a certificate of appreciation, a Section 18A Tax Certificate and a special gift from PSFA.

“Mandela Day reminds us that each of us has the power to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others,” said Petrina Pakoe, Director of the Peninsula School Feeding Association. “Through this challenge, businesses can unite their staff around a shared purpose while directly helping vulnerable children receive the nutrition they need to learn, grow and thrive. We encourage companies to take up the challenge and spend their 67 minutes changing lives.”

Only 10 tables are available, and bookings will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

To book a table, contact Chantal Crook at the Peninsula School Feeding Association on 021 447 6020 or email chantal@psfa.org.za.

At the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA), every meal we provide represents far more than food on a plate. It is a promise to thousands of children that they will have the nourishment they need to learn, grow, and thrive. That promise remains at the heart of everything we do.

Like many organisations and families across South Africa, PSFA is feeling the effects of a challenging economic environment. Rising costs, particularly the significant increase in fuel prices over recent months, have placed considerable pressure on our operations and the resources available to support our feeding programme.

Each week, our dedicated team delivers fresh fruit and vegetables to schools across our network. As transportation forms a vital part of our work, the sharp increase in fuel costs has substantially raised the cost of getting nutritious food to the children who depend on us. While we have worked hard to absorb these increases wherever possible, we have reached a point where temporary adjustments are necessary to ensure that no learner is left without support.

With careful consideration and a deep sense of responsibility, PSFA has introduced a temporary amendment to its feeding programme from 1 June. During this period, schools participating in our nutrition programme will no longer receive weekly deliveries of fresh fruit and vegetables. Instead, these items will be temporarily replaced with Fortified Maize, a nutrient-rich food source designed to provide essential vitamins and minerals that support children’s health, growth, and cognitive development.

We recognise that fresh produce plays an important role in a balanced diet, and this decision was not taken lightly. However, our priority is to ensure that learners continue to receive consistent nutritional support during this difficult period. The introduction of Fortified Maize allows us to maintain that support while carefully managing the financial realities we currently face.

We want to reassure our schools, donors, partners, and communities that this is a temporary measure and does not reflect a change in PSFA’s long-term commitment to providing diverse and nutritious meals. Our team will continue to monitor economic conditions closely, with a full review planned during the third academic term. It remains our sincere hope and intention to reintroduce our standard menu at the beginning of the fourth term, should circumstances permit.

During times like these, we are reminded of the strength of our community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our school principals, feeding coordinators, volunteer food preparers, donors, and supporters for their understanding, encouragement, and unwavering partnership. Your support enables us to continue reaching children who rely on these meals every day.

Together, we will navigate these challenges while remaining focused on what matters most: ensuring that every child has the nourishment they need to embrace learning and build a brighter future.

On Thursday, 28 May 2026, the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) hosted its annual Principals’ Protocol Meeting at Southpoint Studios in Pinelands, bringing together school leaders to reflect on the organisation’s impact and strengthen collective efforts to address child hunger across the Western Cape.

Held on World Hunger Day, the gathering embraced the global theme, “The End of Hunger is in Our Hands,” underscoring the critical role that schools, communities, non-profit organisations and corporate partners play in ensuring that no child has to learn on an empty stomach.

The meeting commenced with registration and a warm welcome session that set the tone for a day of meaningful engagement, collaboration and strategic discussion. PSFA’s director, Petrina Pakoe, guided delegates through PSFA’s Cycle of Impact, a framework that illustrates how every stakeholder contributes to PSFA’s mission of feeding vulnerable children. The cycle begins with identifying beneficiary schools and securing donor support, followed by procuring nutritious ingredients, warehousing and distribution, programme implementation, monitoring and evaluation, accurate reporting, and ongoing awareness-raising.

PSFA’s donors, suppliers, warehouse & logistics team, administrative staff and schools each represent a vital link in this chain. Together, these interconnected processes ensure accountability, demonstrate measurable impact, and strengthen donor confidence, retention and investment. The session highlighted how each link plays a critical role in sustaining the feeding programme and enabling PSFA to provide nutritious meals to thousands of children every school day.

A key component of the programme was the Review of Reports session, during which principals and stakeholders engaged in a constructive discussion around both the successes and challenges experienced across the feeding programme. The session provided an opportunity to analyse key findings, share lessons learned, identify emerging trends within schools, and explore practical strategies to strengthen programme implementation, accountability and overall impact. Through open dialogue and collaborative problem-solving, participants gained valuable insights into ways to enhance service delivery and ensure that more children benefit from a nutritious meal every school day.

The meeting also included a practical Gas Compliance Input session that provided schools with key information to ensure safe, compliant food-preparation environments. This reflects PSFA’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence across its feeding programme.

One of the highlights of the day was a thought-provoking Leadership Insight presentation by Kubeshni Govender-Jones, speaking in her capacity as Chief Executive Officer of Common Purpose. Drawing on the World Hunger Day theme, “The End of Hunger is in Our Hands,” she challenged principals to view school feeding not as a support function, but as an essential part of making education possible. Emphasising that hungry children struggle with concentration, dignity and readiness to learn, she highlighted the critical role of leadership in ensuring that feeding programmes are delivered with care, accountability and consistency. Govender introduced two practical leadership frameworks—See, Sort, Shift and Core and Flex—to help principals address challenges effectively while maintaining non-negotiable standards of child dignity, safety, ethical conduct and accountability.

She encouraged school leaders to look beyond surface-level problems, identify root causes, create sustainable solutions, and adapt operational practices without compromising the programme’s core values. Her message reinforced that ending hunger requires more than good intentions; it requires attentive leadership, strong systems, clear standards and unwavering follow-through. By fostering a culture of responsibility and care, principals can strengthen feeding programmes and ensure that every child receives the nutrition and dignity they deserve.

The event concluded with a closing review and networking lunch, allowing participants to reflect on the day’s discussions and strengthen relationships that support the shared mission of feeding children and building brighter futures.

As the world marked World Hunger Day, the Principals’ Protocol Meeting served as a powerful reminder that ending hunger requires collective action. Through partnerships with schools, donors, volunteers and community stakeholders, PSFA continues to demonstrate that sustainable solutions are possible when people work together with purpose and determination.

The Peninsula School Feeding Association extends its sincere gratitude to all the school principals and senior staff who participated in the event and who continue to champion the fight against child hunger. Together, we can ensure that every child has access to the nutrition they need to learn, grow and thrive, because the end of hunger is truly in our hands.

The Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) is delighted to announce that our much-anticipated annual family fun walk, Blisters for Bread in association with Lucky Star, will take place on Sunday, August 16, at the Green Point Common Sports Grounds.

Blisters for Bread in association with Lucky Star is not just a walk; it’s a symbol of solidarity and a commitment to ensuring that no child goes to school hungry. With the generous support of our participants, sponsors, and volunteers, PSFA aims to raise awareness of childhood hunger and funds to provide nutritious meals to impoverished children at schools across the Western Cape.

The event, which will start in Stephan Way, Green Point and end at the Green Point Common Sports Ground, will include two routes along the scenic Sea Point Promenade, a 10km walk starting at 07h30 and a 5km walk starting at 08h00. Every person who enters will receive a medal and refreshments sponsored by Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages.

Beyond the walk itself, participants will be treated to an exciting entertainment programme showcasing top Cape Town artists. The lineup includes Paxton (2017 SA Idols winner), Steven Lee Lewis (from the 2014 X-Factor champions FOUR), and acclaimed producer, DJ, and songwriter Sketchy Bongo. The event will also feature food stalls and all-ages activities, offering a wonderful morning out for families. Crucially, every step taken and every Rand contributed will directly impact the lives of children relying on PSFA’s nutrition support initiative.

“We are delighted to be hosting the 58th Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk,” said Petrina Pakoe, director of PSFA. “This gathering is a powerful testament to our shared commitment to ensuring every child receives nutritious school meals. Join us as we walk toward a future without hunger.”

Entries are now open, with various registration options available to accommodate individual and group entries. The entry fee is R125, which will enable PSFA to provide 23 school children affected by poverty with a nutritious breakfast and lunch for an entire day. Only online entries will be accepted. Entries close at midnight on Sunday, August 2, and are limited to 10,000 people, so please enter early to avoid disappointment.

To enter or learn more about the event, please visit www.psfa.org.za. If you have any enquiries, please get in touch with Top Events at info@topevents.co.za or WhatsApp at 0661394210.

The PSFA general committee, management, and staff are delighted to welcome Chelsey Eckstein as our new Bookkeeper, effective 5 January 2026.

Chelsey takes over this important role from Nicky Samual, who retired at the end of March after her valued service to the organisation. We extend our sincere gratitude to Nicky for her dedication and contribution to PSFA over the years and wish her all the very best in her retirement.

Chelsey joins the PSFA team as a dedicated and driven professional, bringing with her a strong foundation in both technical and financial disciplines. She began her academic journey in Information Technology at the College of Cape Town, where she spent three years building valuable analytical and systems-based skills. It was during this time that she discovered her passion for accounting—a path she has since pursued with focus and determination.

In 2021, Chelsey obtained her qualification in Accounting Practice and has since been working in the field, gaining valuable experience while continuously developing her skills. She is detail-oriented, adaptable, and committed to delivering accurate, efficient work, qualities essential to supporting the financial integrity of our organisation.

Beyond her professional achievements, Chelsey is a proud young mother of two boys, Cade and Arlo, and a supportive partner to her husband, Brent. She values balance and brings a warm, grounded perspective to both her personal and professional life.

In her free time, Chelsey enjoys exploring different restaurants and cuisines, reading, and spending quality time with her family. She is passionate about growth, meaningful experiences, and contributing positively in all areas of her life.

We are thrilled to have Chelsey join the PSFA family and look forward to the important role she will play in strengthening our financial operations as we continue our mission to provide nutritious meals to thousands of learners each day.

Welcome to the team, Chelsey!

Today, the staff at the PSFA gathered for a special luncheon at our offices to bid a fond farewell to our hardworking and amazing bookkeeper, Nicky Samuel, who is retiring after 9 wonderful years.

During the luncheon, each staff member shared a cherished memory of working with Nicky. Our Director, Petrina Pakoe, said a few heartfelt words about her incredible contribution, and Nicky responded with a warm thank you speech, sharing her gratitude and reflections on her time with us.

Nicky’s kindness, caring nature, and unforgettable sense of humour have left a lasting mark on all of us. We will miss her dearly and wish her all the very best in this exciting new chapter! 💛

#thankyounicky #psfafamily #hardworkingandloved #FarewellWithLove #RetirementCelebration #psfaheroes #9YearsOfImpact

We are thrilled to share that the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) recently represented our community on an international platform. On Friday, 6th March, our director, Petrina Pakoe, was invited to the United Kingdom to participate in the 25th-anniversary flagship conference of the John Madejski Centre for Reputation (JMCR), held at the prestigious Henley Business School, University of Reading.

Building connections in a polarised world

The milestone event, hosted at the beautiful Greenlands Campus in Henley, brought together influential voices from government, academia, business, and the non-profit sector. The theme of the day, “Building connections and reducing polarisation,” resonates deeply with the work we do here in Cape Town, where fostering trust and community relationships is at the heart of our mission.

The JMCR is a world leader in research regarding how reputation and responsible leadership drive sustainable behaviour. Their work helps organisations, from global corporations to local charities, understand how to communicate for meaningful societal change.

Sharing Our Story Alongside Global Leaders

It was a truly momentous occasion for PSFA to be included in a distinguished line-up of speakers. Petrina presented a vital case study on how reputation research has directly supported PSFA in deepening our community relationships and expanding our impact.

Sharing the platform with Petrina were several notable figures, including:

• Baroness Theresa May, former UK Prime Minister, who delivered the keynote address on realigning the values of service and power.
• Sir John Madejski OBE, who shared insights on the importance of building meaningful relationships.
• Professor Tom Oliver, who explored lessons from ecological science for societal cohesion.
• Gary Leboff, a leading performance psychologist, offered guidance on sustaining positive change.

A partnership rooted in impact

Our presence at the conference is the result of a flourishing partnership. Since 2022, PSFA has been involved in a research initiative with Henley Business School. This collaboration has enabled us to apply academic, relationship-based models in our daily operations, ensuring we remain a trusted and resilient pillar for the children and schools we serve.

“PSFA is extremely grateful for the opportunity granted to the organisation to share a platform with such esteemed speakers and to showcase the incredible work being done in South Africa.” Petrina Pakoe, PSFA Director.

We return from the UK inspired by these global perspectives, ready to continue building the connections that ensure no child has to learn on an empty stomach.

Following her successful presentation in the UK, Petrina has been invited to take the stage once again at the Henley Impact Partnership Conference on 27th March at The President Hotel in Cape Town.