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In a country where the matric dance is often seen as a once-in-a-lifetime rite of passage, hundreds of young girls are quietly excluded each year due to financial constraints. With matric ball costs escalating up to R30, 000 including dresses, make-up, styling, the matric ball tickets, fancy car hire and pre-parties – this milestone event has become increasingly out of reach for many families, creating a growing divide between those who can afford to attend and those who cannot.
Now, Talitha Oosthuizen is stepping in to change that narrative – one dress at a time.
As the 1st Princess of Mrs South Africa, Talitha has launched an ambitious and deeply personal campaign to collect and donate 1,000 evening gowns to matric girls who would otherwise not be able to attend their matric ball in style. This initiative offers South Africans a meaningful opportunity to support less fortunate girls by giving them the chance to experience this important celebration with confidence and pride.
“This is about dignity, confidence, and showing young girls that their dreams are valid – regardless of their circumstances,” says Oosthuizen. “Every girl deserves to feel beautiful and celebrated during this milestone moment.”
The campaign calls on the public to donate pre-loved or new evening wear, giving dresses a second life while creating first-time magical experiences for young women across Gauteng. Donations can be dropped off at Talitha’s business, Bush Whisper Expeditions in Benoni by 15 June 2026.
Beyond simply handing out dresses, the initiative is designed to create unforgettable moments. Selected recipients will be invited to exclusive dress selection and fitting experiences on two significant national days: Youth Day (16 June) and Women’s Day (9 August). These curated events will offer girls not just a dress, but a confidence-boosting experience – complete with styling, fittings, and the excitement of choosing “the one.”
“This is more than charity – it’s about restoring hope and celebrating potential,” Oosthuizen adds. “We want each girl to walk into her matric dance knowing she belongs there.”
The campaign also reflects a broader purpose tied to Talitha’s role within Mrs South Africa – using her platform to create tangible impact and uplift young women at a critical stage in their lives. By focusing on education milestones like matric, the initiative underscores the importance of recognising and rewarding perseverance.
Girls who would like to be considered for a donated dress are invited to WhatsApp their name and school to 082 377 0085. Due to the anticipated demand, early submissions are encouraged.
With Youth Month approaching and the nation reflecting on the future of its young people, this campaign arrives at a crucial moment – blending generosity, empowerment, and community spirit.
Media are invited to support, amplify, and cover this initiative as it unfolds, particularly the two key event dates where transformation stories will come to life.
How to donate your dress by 15 June 2026:
Drop off your dress at 39B 4th Street, Brentwood Park, Benoni (Bush Whisper Expeditions Office)
· Normal courier to the above address may be used.
· PostNet to PostNet courier can be delivered to PostNet Linksfield Neighbourhood Square with Talitha’s phone number 082 377 0085 for notification.
Are you in matric and do you need a matric ball dress?
WhatsApp your name and school name to Talitha on 082 377 0085.
INFO SUPPLIED.