Sandy Lentor has become the fairy godmother of Hanover Park, helping needy youngsters get to their matric balls.
The former beauty queen is the founder of the Fairy Godmother community project and seniors’ club, which is a registered non-profit organisation.
Ms Lentoor believes every young person should get to experience their matric ball.
She started the project about four years ago after seeing a need for it in Hanover Park.
“I’ve been a queen all my life, and I want to give back to the community. The boys and girls must be able to experience this kind of thing at least once.
“People from all over are asking me to help their children, and I love doing it – making them feel beautiful,” she said.
She also offers to do the matriculants’ hair and make-up.
She runs the project from the Youth Impact and Sustainable Solutions (YISS) hub at Crystal High School.
The beneficiaries do not have to pay for their outfits but are asked to donate a small amount if they can towards the Fairy Godmother seniors’ club’s annual luncheon or Christmas party.
The clothes are donated by various organisations and by people with suits and dresses hanging unused in their cupboards at home.
“It is not about the money, it is about them having fun,” said Ms Lentor. “My future plans are to open my own modelling school to
showcase the talents of our young people and give them the opportunity to shine. I have helped quite a few people, and I want to help more this year,” she said.
Fatima Abrahams, a Crystal High School teacher, said Ms Lentoor was known for her good work in the community.
“There is such a great demand in the area; the project is really needed, and the girls’ parents really appreciate the help that Sandy gives. She even does their hair and make-up for them.
“Sandy has been a great help for the community. She is always willing to step in and help, and I know that I can send anyone to her if they need help.”