Hot Cares helps Mariska turn her calling into a career

At Hot Cares, we believe in the ripple effect of education – one teacher can change hundreds of lives. That’s why the story of Mariska Smit touched us so deeply.

Mariska is a fourth-year education student who has already proven her dedication in the classroom. She currently teaches under a School Governing Body contract, showing up every day for her learners with skill, passion, and a genuine calling to teach. Her dream of becoming a permanently employed educator is within reach – the Department of Education has confirmed she will receive a post once her degree is finalised.

But there was one last hurdle in her way: R16 000 in outstanding fees for her final semester. Without clearing this debt, Mariska could not graduate, and that permanent post would slip from her grasp.

Her story is one of commitment and perseverance. Despite financial challenges at home, with her husband’s modest income only covering basic household needs, she continued to teach and study, determined to complete her qualification. Her father supported her as long as he could, but ill-health made it impossible for him to continue paying. Still, Mariska never gave up.

Hot Cares knew this was a chance to make an immediate and lasting impact. By stepping in to cover the final amount, we weren’t just helping one woman finish her degree – we were securing a teacher for generations of learners, stabilising a young family, and honouring years of sacrifice.

Sometimes, the greatest change comes from helping someone over the final hurdle. In Mariska’s case, it means turning dedication into a permanent post and ensuring that countless children benefit from the guidance of a teacher who refused to quit.