Teacher Buys Shoes for Pupil With Torn Pair: “A Mom Before Anything Else"
- A TikTok video of a South African teacher helping a learner in need touched thousands of South Africans online
- Her gesture reminded many of the sacrifices teachers make beyond teaching, prompting reactions online
- The clip left netizens calling her a role model and saying the act was proof that educators often carry the role of parents, too
South Africans were deeply moved after a teacher surprised her pupil with kindness, reminding many of the heart teachers put into their work.
Source: TikTok
In a world where small acts of kindness often go unnoticed, one teacher’s heartfelt gesture has captured the nation’s attention and reminded many of the power of compassion. A simple pair of shoes became a symbol of dignity, hope, and care when a South African educator chose to step in for a struggling pupil.
A video posted by TikTok user @mukosi7 on 19 August 2025 has left South Africans in their feels after showing a teacher going the extra mile for one of her pupils. In the clip, the learner is gifted a brand-new pair of shoes after arriving at school with a torn and worn-out pair. The touching moment, captured in class, sparked a wave of emotional reactions online.
The video blew up quickly, gaining over 121,000 likes and more than 5,000 comments in under 24 hours. For many, it was a powerful reminder of how educators often step into parental roles, especially when their students come from difficult circumstances.
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Mzansi showers teacher with love
People online flooded the comments with praise, calling her a true example of selflessness. Some noted how her words showed the heart behind the gesture. Others admitted the clip made them emotional, pointing out how small acts of kindness can restore dignity to a child who might otherwise feel left out.
The video has become a celebration of teachers everywhere, with viewers saying educators don’t just teach, they change lives. It also reignited conversations about the struggles many learners face, and how a single act of care can make a lasting impact. Most netizens also appreciated the fact that she hid the pupil's face while helping.
Source: TikTok
Mzansi reacted to the video
Mankoana Nnana🎀 said:
"May your pockets never run dry, mommy. ❤️🥹 Your heart is full of love and generosity, and the way you help children quietly without seeking attention is truly inspiring."
Dashikithevillagegirl said:
"I remember 2019 in Grade R, there was this intelligent little girl in our class. She was always dirty, and it hurt seeing her struggle financially. I wasn’t earning at the time, but I asked for donations on WhatsApp, and people came through. She was able to graduate looking beautiful that day… my heart was so fulfilled. I hope life is treating her well now; she should be in Grade 6 this year."
Prettynizzer said:
"The fact that you hid the child’s face shows that you did this deeply from your heart. 🥰 This isn’t about social media clout; it’s about genuine care, and we love you more and more for it."
Kemi102 said:
"Hiding the child’s face shows that you are not doing this for social media. 😭❤️ May God bless you, mama. 🙏 True acts of kindness don’t need an audience."
Dnox said:
"This is how you make a video when assisting, without exposing the child. 🥰 God bless you, my sister. 💯🙏 Your compassion is remarkable."
Lezzy said:
"This reminds me of my Grade 3 teacher. She bought my entire uniform and new shoes… wherever you are, Miss Mkhize, wait for me. ❤️ Teachers and mentors like you change lives forever."
KedimaKedies said:
"In most cases, intelligent kids come from poor backgrounds. 😭 May the Almighty God bless you for lifting them and helping them achieve their potential."
Sabby said:
"Teachers are like parents, ma'am. I remember getting letters from learners asking for toiletries. I would buy them and take them to their houses. 😭 May God bless you, ma'am, for showing the same selfless love."
Check out the TikTok video below:
3 Briefly News stories about teachers
- A passionate educator shared her detailed classroom preparation process just one day before schools reopened.
- A group of pupils' grand gesture surprise for their teacher's last day of school warmed the hearts of many people in Mzansi.
- During a school assembly, a teacher proposed to his partner in a heartwarming moment witnessed by students.
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Source: Briefly News
