In honour of International Literacy Day, brand and communications agency, Penquin, celebrated by hosting a special book and art fair at Little People Pre-School in Riverlea, Johannesburg, on 7 September 2024. Partnering with the Dr. CL Smith Foundation, an organisation founded by the late Dr. Clifford Leon Smith, the event aimed to bring the gift of literacy to young learners who lack access to books in rural and underprivileged communities.
Dr. Smith, a visionary doctor and philanthropist, recognised the importance of literacy at the foundation phase and dedicated his life to distributing books to children in need. Today, his legacy is carried on by his grandson, Malcolm Mooi, who continues the foundation’s vital work.
The initiative, themed ‘Discover the World One Page at a Time,’ aligns with the agency’s mission to empower individuals through meaningful contributions to society.
As part of the event, Penquin donated goodie bags to the students, each containing five individual readers, a colouring book, and an activity book. Additionally, parents and teachers received books on how to encourage children to read, providing them with tools to foster a love of learning at home and in the classroom. These books, authored by Mooi, share valuable lessons such as teamwork, perseverance, kindness and compassion.
The fair featured a variety of exciting activities, including an Xbox station, a craft corner, and a live mural painting by local artist John Adams. The mural, depicting a girl whom the children affectionately named ‘Miranda’, added a special touch to the event. To ensure everyone felt nourished and supported, hot meals were provided for 100 children and adults, with teatime treats sponsored by The Kitchen Mafia. Bic Stationery SA generously contributed stationery packs, crayons, and pens for the school.
‘At Penquin, we believe in the power of education and literacy to change lives. Supporting foundation phase literacy aligns perfectly with our mission to empower individuals and communities,’ said Veronica Moleele, Penquin CEO. ‘Through our partnership with the Dr. CL Smith Foundation, we’re excited to continue making a tangible difference in the lives of children who might not otherwise have access to books and resources.’
‘We are deeply grateful to Penquin for their generous support of our 5th Annual Art and Book Fair,’ said Mooi, Founder and CEO at the Dr. CL Smith Foundation. ‘Their contribution went beyond financial support —their hands-on approach and in-kind donations truly embodied the spirit of teamwork and cooperation that we celebrate in our Discovery Series 3 books. It’s been an inspiring partnership, built on shared values of kindness, unity, and working together to create a lasting impact. We look forward to continuing this incredible journey with Penquin.’
The celebration of International Literacy Day extended beyond the preschool as Penquin also provided 25 sets of books to its staff members, reinforcing the agency’s belief in supporting not only communities but also the families of its employees.
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