The Phoenix 50 Years Celebration School Campaign Meeting Educators from schools across Phoenix gathered at the Phoenix Children’s Centre for the launch of the Phoenix 50 Years Schools Campaign. Teachers received Certificates of Appreciation for coordinating the initiative in their respective schools.
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Phoenix is preparing to mark a half‑century of resilience and growth, with a R100 000 schools campaign launched to ensure the next generation documents the community’s journey from its 1976 foundations to the present day.
The initiative, part of the broader Phoenix 50 Years Celebration programme, is a joint venture between Phoenix Child Welfare and the Phoenix Community Centre. It challenges learners to look beyond the present and reflect on the history, achievements, and future trajectory of a township that evolved from 19th‑century sugar estates and the iconic 1904 Gandhi Settlement into a vibrant heart of Durban.
For 17‑year‑old Neha Nadasan, a Grade 12 learner at Northmead Secondary, the milestone is a source of pride. “Currently our community is celebrating 50 years in existence, which I think is really great that we as a community have come quite far and I’m really proud,” she said. “In our community there are lots of projects created by schools and community organisations to keep young people busy.”
Educators from several schools recently gathered at the Phoenix Children’s Centre for a special engagement session hosted by the Phoenix 50 Years Celebration Committee. Around 40 teachers attended, where the campaign was introduced and school coordinators were recognised with Certificates of Appreciation.
The campaign features two key projects. The first is an Essay Competition open to senior primary learners in Grades 6 and 7 as well as all high school learners. Schools may submit multiple essays, each limited to one A4 page. After selecting their top entry, each school will submit its best essay, with one winning learner per school receiving a cash prize of R1 000.
Essay topics invite learners to explore themes such as the rise and growth of Phoenix over the past five decades, the challenges and achievements experienced by the community, and what Phoenix means to the youth of today.
The second project is a Class Collage or Wall Mural Project, encouraging learners to visually represent the spirit, development and aspirations of the community. Three schools will be recognised, with prizes of R5 000 for first place, R3 000 for second and R2 000 for third.
An investment of R100 000, funded by Sibaya Trust, has been committed to the campaign, with R50 000 allocated to primary schools and R50 000 to high schools.
Dr. Muni Kooblal of the Phoenix 50 Years Celebration Committee said the campaign places young people at the centre of the milestone celebrations.
“Our schools are at the heart of our community, and this campaign provides a powerful platform for young people to reflect on our shared history while expressing their hopes for the future,” he said. “It is through their voices and creativity that the legacy of Phoenix will continue to grow.”
Young learners across Phoenix are already preparing to enter the competition, each with their own reflections on what the community means to them.
Mishka Harrichand, a Grade 9 learner at Avonford Secondary, said “Phoenix is more than just a place, it’s a community filled with 50 years of history, culture and a strong sense of togetherness. Growing up here means being surrounded by people who support one another, where neighbours become like family and there is always a sense of belonging.”
Amira Essop, a Grade 7 learner at Whetstone Primary, added, “Living in Phoenix means being part of a strong community where people have seen challenges, but that just motivates us to be part of something positive. It’s where I’ve grown, learned and been inspired by the people around me. I am excited because it is a great opportunity to represent my area and make a difference.”
All primary and high schools in Phoenix have been invited to participate, with the closing date for submissions set for 30 April 2026. Prize money will be distributed after the Phoenix Fair, scheduled from 29 May to 7 June at Rydalvale Sports Grounds.