Parkwood pupils are being given the opportunity to shine at their matric ball thanks to local resident Chante Herries, owner of Heavenly Hair Studio and a finalist in this year’s Ms Drag South Africa.
Herries, who began the project as an extension of the Beauty with a Purpose campaign required of all finalists, looks at uplifting Parkwood pupils by promising an all-expenses paid day of pampering and grooming to those unable to afford the expenses for their big day.
Through the project, pupils can choose from a range of Herries’s own dresses, and the payment of their matric ball ticket will be taken care of.
They will even be transported to and from the venue.
Herries said the initiative is close to her heart.
“There are so many students that are hard-working but still don’t have the money or support from their families to really look after them when it comes to their matric ball.
“I didn’t attend my matric ball because of certain circumstances so I thought
let me give back to those girls and boys who also might
not be able to have that
opportunity."
Herries hopes by providing her resources as a hair stylist, make-up artist, and beauty salon owner, this will also give pupils an incentive to succeed in their academics.
Pupils selected to participate in the project will have
to meet high academic standards, will have to be hard working, and have a clear vision of where they want
to be in the next five years, she said.
Herries works with six schools in the Parkwood area. Recipients for this year have yet to be chosen.
“I’ve had a huge response from the community. When it comes to things like this, everyone really wants to come out and help.”
The campaign is also one Herries hopes will become more popular in the future, adding that she is looking for sponsors to provide matric ball dresses of all sizes.
Herries can be contacted at [email protected]