Tronox Mineral Sands Donation Supports Local Preschool

Tronox funds provided containers for classrooms and helped pay teachers’ salaries.

When the Langebaan Preschool opened in 2012, the registered Non-Profit Organization (NPO) – with a structured program, two qualified teachers, and two support staff for children from 3 to 6 years of age—was operating out of a skate park near our Namakwa Sands operations in South Africa’s Western Cape.

After nearly eight years of not having its own premises, the school’s principal, along with members of the local community, contacted area businesses to help fund the purchase of suitable land on which they could construct a proper schoolhouse.

“My vision for the school was for it to grow and be in a position to start Grade 1 – 3 classes within two years,” said Bevelynn Blaaw, principal. “Early childhood development is a crucial phase in a child’s life, and I really want to make a valuable difference in the lives of these children.”

In 2018, the Saldanha Municipality came on board and donated a piece of land to the school. The necessary re-zoning activities took place, and the green light was given. The next year, Tronox and other local industries joined in and donated money that was used to purchase six containers, which have been erected on the allocated land and will be used as classrooms. Tronox funding was also used to pay staff salaries in 2020. This was a significant help in overcoming limitations of COVID-19 restrictions and the notable reduction in donations from businesses.

“Tronox helps address the socio-economic challenges of our communities by working closely with non-profit organizations and promoting high-quality education,” said Nozuko Basson, Regional Manager, Communities and Corporate Affairs.

In the video, Bevelynn shares what the school has meant for the community, the children and families, and for her, personally.