Utrecht, Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal | Tuesday, 4 August 2026 – A dream that began with a heartfelt plea for help has today become a remarkable symbol of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of partnership.
Earlier this morning, Gagasi FM – The Sound of KZN, in partnership with Hollywood Foundation, officially handed over the newly rebuilt Umzilikazi Secondary School in Utrecht, Newcastle, marking the successful completion of a landmark infrastructure project under Gagasi FM’s Adopt-A-School Initiative.
The official handover represents the culmination of a journey that began in 2025, when the school was adopted following an emotional appeal from educator Miss Zia Sibisi, whose determination to create a better future for her learners inspired a movement of compassion and action.
What was once a school facing significant infrastructure challenges has now been transformed into a modern learning environment designed to inspire excellence and unlock opportunities for generations of learners to come.
The revitalisation project has fundamentally changed the educational landscape at Umzilikazi Secondary School.
The development included the construction of three brand-new classroom blocks comprising 15 fully equipped classrooms, providing learners and educators with safe, dignified, and inspiring spaces in which to teach and learn.
To further strengthen the school’s learning environment, the project also delivered:
- 300 brand-new learner desks
- 1,800 stationery packs distributed to learners
- Modern teaching spaces designed to improve the overall educational experience
Together, these interventions represent far more than bricks and mortar—they represent renewed hope, restored dignity, and a long-term investment in the future of education within the Newcastle community.
One of the most emotional moments of the ceremony was the recognition of Miss Zia Sibisi, whose unwavering belief that her learners deserved better became the catalyst for this life-changing initiative.
Her heartfelt request for assistance in 2025 set in motion a partnership that has now delivered one of the most significant educational transformation projects undertaken through Gagasi FM’s community outreach programme.
Today, that vision has become reality.
The official handover stands as a powerful reminder that meaningful partnerships, driven by compassion and purpose, can create lasting change where it is needed most.
The official handover ceremony brought together representatives from the Hollywood Foundation, Gagasi FM, the Department of Education, educators, learners, community leaders, and stakeholders to celebrate this historic milestone.
Serving as Master of Ceremonies, Nkulee Mbatha guided the morning’s proceedings with warmth, enthusiasm, and inspiration, ensuring the significance of the occasion was felt by every learner and guest in attendance.
Throughout the programme, speakers reflected on the importance of investing in education as the foundation for building stronger communities and creating opportunities for future generations.
Addressing learners during the ceremony, Kuhle Mkhize, PR & Communications Manager for the Hollywood Group, reaffirmed the Foundation’s long-term commitment to community upliftment through sustainable development initiatives.
“Three classroom blocks, fifteen classrooms, three hundred desks, and one thousand eight hundred stationery packs represent the lasting impact we are leaving behind. The Hollywood Foundation remains fully committed to creating meaningful opportunities through education, community development, sport, and entrepreneurship because every child deserves the opportunity to succeed.”
The handover ceremony was filled with emotion as Mr. Zulu, representing Umzilikazi Secondary School, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to both the Hollywood Foundation and Gagasi FM.
He spoke of the renewed sense of pride that now exists within the school community and acknowledged that the project had restored not only infrastructure but also hope and dignity for both learners and educators.
For many learners, the new classrooms represent far more than improved facilities—they symbolise a future filled with possibility.
True to Gagasi FM’s commitment to empowering communities beyond broadcasting, several station personalities engaged directly with learners throughout the morning.
Beloved broadcaster Linda “Mr Magic” Sibiya encouraged learners to remain committed to their education, reminding them that every dream begins with knowledge.
“Everything you want to become starts with your books. Education is the foundation of every dream.”
His message resonated deeply with learners, reinforcing the importance of discipline, perseverance, and self-belief.
Felix Hlophe inspired learners by reminding them that success begins long before achievement.
“Your success starts with your mindset. Believe in yourself, work hard, and never allow your circumstances to define your future.”
Meanwhile, Selbeyonce Mkhize left the school deeply inspired after engaging with learners throughout the morning.
Reflecting on the experience, she spoke of the remarkable ambition and determination displayed by the young people of Umzilikazi Secondary School.
“The level of focus and the depth of the dreams shared by these learners is truly inspiring. Today has reminded us why investing in education matters.”
Representing the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education, Mrs. Njoko expressed sincere appreciation to both the Hollywood Foundation and Gagasi FM for their commitment to improving educational infrastructure.
She acknowledged that collaborative partnerships between the public and private sectors continue to play a critical role in creating environments where learners can thrive academically and personally.
More Than Infrastructure—A Promise for the Future
Standing before the newly completed classrooms, guests reflected on the extraordinary journey that had brought the project to completion.
The transformation of Umzilikazi Secondary School is a living testament to what becomes possible when vision is matched with commitment, collaboration, and genuine care for communities.
It demonstrates how corporate social investment can extend beyond financial contributions to create meaningful, measurable, and lasting change.
The project also reinforces Gagasi FM’s ongoing commitment to using its platform to champion education, inspire hope, and uplift communities throughout KwaZulu-Natal.
For Gagasi FM, the completion of this project represents another milestone in its Adopt-A-School initiative—a programme dedicated to identifying schools in need and working with partners to deliver meaningful improvements that directly impact learners’ lives.
For the Hollywood Foundation, the initiative reflects its broader mission of empowering communities through investments in education, entrepreneurship, sport, and community development.
Together, the two organisations have demonstrated the extraordinary impact that purposeful partnerships can have when united by a common vision.
As learners prepare to begin writing the next chapter of their educational journeys within their new classrooms, today’s handover serves as a lasting reminder that every investment in education is an investment in South Africa’s future.
What began as one educator’s plea has become a beacon of hope for an entire community.
The newly rebuilt Umzilikazi Secondary School now stands not only as a place of learning but as a symbol of possibility, proving that when communities, corporate partners, and passionate individuals come together, lives can be transformed and futures rewritten.
ENDS
