In episode 21 of SportStroom, host Drikus sits down with Charles and Stefan to dive into the story of Friends of Ferdies, a community-powered initiative supporting Hoërskool Ferdinand Postma Highschool through practical, meaningful action. But this isn’t just about helping a school… it’s about uplifting learners, building lasting relationships, and ensuring every pupil has the opportunity to succeed.
What Is Friends of Ferdies?
Friends of Ferdies is an independent platform that identifies current, real needs at the school and then helps meet them through targeted, achievable two-month projects.
The initiative is deeply learner-focused. It’s about removing barriers, creating opportunities, and adding value where it matters most, whether through academics, sport, infrastructure, or emotional well-being.
One Project at a Time, With Purpose
What makes this project different is its clear and focused approach: They look at what is most important right now, and they strive to complete that project fully before moving on to the next. This ensures real, visible impact, not just ideas or promises.
Whether it's a new training facility, a safer environment, or upgraded cultural spaces, every project is realistic, goal-driven, and fully completed before starting the next.
Transparency & Feedback
Supporters are always kept in the loop. They receive updates on how their donations are used, and how the outcomes benefit the learners and the school.
This openness builds trust and has already led to more and more individuals and companies reaching out on their own, asking how they can get involved.
Anyone Can Be a Friend of Ferdies
You don’t have to be a former student to help. This is open to everyone, parents, community members, former staff, local business owners, and even people who simply drive past the school every day and want to make a difference.
Whether you're Afrikaans or English, alumni or outsider, young or old, if you care about learners, you're welcome here.
Support Comes in All Forms
Some donors give financially. Others give time, expertise, or connections. Some even prefer to stay anonymous, quietly doing their part behind the scenes. Every bit helps.
Current and Future Projects
Friends of Ferdies is currently:
Upgrading the athletics field
Handling maintenance across the school grounds
Expanding their network of marketing boards
These aren’t enormous projects on their own, but together, they add up to something truly significant.
The team is busy with:
Expand the shooting range
Complete their next major cultural project: a small open-air theatre with Greek-style pillars, built on the square.
This stage will serve drama productions and school plays — and they hope to have it ready before the upcoming open days so that Grade 7 learners can enjoy a show during their visit.
Upcoming Open Days
Everyone is invited to come and see what’s happening at Hoërskool / Highschool Ferdinand Postma:
English Open Day: 19 May 2025
Afrikaans Open Day: 21 May 2025
More information can be found on the school’s Facebook page.
The Future: Stronger Together
The team is working on merchandise, supporter gear, and growing online communities so that people can connect and show their pride. WhatsApp groups, updates, and live events will continue building the movement.
This is more than just a school fundraiser. It’s a foundation for long-term impact, a legacy of upliftment that benefits learners, families, and the entire Potchefstroom community.
Friends of Ferdies isn’t just about projects, it’s about people, purpose, and pride in the place we all call home.
View the full Afrikaans Interview here.
Remember to tune into the next episode of Sportstroom on The Go-To Guy Facebook Page
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