The children had the opportunity to enjoy games, unwrap gifts and practice the soccer skills that they have learnt through Soccer Starz. Inflatable slip-and-slides were also provided.

"Children from communities struggling with unemployment, poverty and drug addiction face enormous challenges through no fault of their own," says Liqui Moly managing director Melicia Labuschagne.

"It's up to us to protect and nurture these young lives — they are the future. That's why at Liqui Moly, we will always focus on supporting children. The Superhero Academy is the heart of Liqui Moly, it's a place where we can give back, invest in children and bring hope," adds Labuschagne.

The academy opened in February 2018 and has since been aiming to change the lives of children from the broader homeless community who receive shelter, food and medical care at the New Beginnings Care Centre, which is a rehabilitation and support centre for homeless families.

In collaboration with Joint Aid Management, the Liqui Moly team transformed the original on-site crèche at the centre. What was originally dilapidated garden sheds is now a new environment filled with toys and equipment, where children can grow and learn in safety.

The school is now a safe haven for 70 children, including the crèche pre-schoolers, after-care schoolchildren and high school teenagers. Leigh Scheepers, principal of the Liqui Moly Superhero Academy, says, "Without the care and commitment of Liqui Moly, this would not have been a school." 

"It's amazing how these fertile young minds can thrive in the right environment. With the help of our sponsors, we're working hard to uplift the entire community, starting with children from three months old right up to matric students," adds Scheepers. 

Beyond the initial R1.3-million revamp, Liqui Moly has continued to contribute to ongoing costs. "We help with teacher salaries, a feeding scheme, psychiatric counselling and soccer training," says Scheepers.

"We also help to maintain the school and respond to any other needs. Of course, we also support them with all the Liqui Moly oils and lubricants for their vehicles and equipment,” says Labuschagne. "It’s so rewarding to see the changes here — from heartbreak to happiness.”

Liqui Moly also continues to get partners and customers involved. "We're fortunate that so many partners of ours have seen the opportunity to be able to invest and add value to the centre. We are so grateful for every partner of ours that has gone into their pockets and found ways they can give back," adds Labuschagne.

"MAXXIS Tyres have generously contributed to the cause and will also donate tyres for the vehicles of the centre, as well as sand for the sandpit. Other contributions and donations from our teams in the 94.7 Cycle Challenge will help us to add new metal playground equipment in the new year," Labuschagne says.

"The Christmas party has been made possible by investments from a number of different partners. We really appreciate every contribution," Labuschagne says.

Going forward, Labuschagne says that Liqui Moly would like to further develop the play area and classrooms so that the children can grow in sports and academically. "It's about adding value and giving these children resources and the right educational environment so they can have the best chance of success," Labuschagne concludes.

Liqui Moly's commitment to caring for children additionally partners with the Carte Blanche Making a Difference Trust to ensure that children have access to the specialised paediatric ICU equipment that they need at the Tyger Valley Hospital in Cape Town.

For more information, visit www.liqui-moly.co.za. You can also follow Liqui Moly on Facebook or on Instagram.