05/06/2026
18-YEAR-OLD STUDENT RAISES OVER R10,000 SELLING GRAPES TO FUND HIS OWN MATRIC BALL
Miguel Hendricks, an 18-year-old matric pupil at Bergrivier High School in Wellington, Western Cape, South Africa, has raised just over R10,000 by selling grapes (and later other fruits) to fund his own matric ball (farewell dance) without burdening his family.
Miguel decided to take responsibility for the costs of his matric ball such as suit hire, shoes, transport (a fancy car for arrival), grooming. because his family couldnโt easily afford it. He started selling punnets of seedless grapes for R20 each every day after school since February 2026. He has contributed some earnings to household needs like food, electricity, and school fees, while saving the rest for the event in September.
With mid-year exams approaching, he has scaled back to weekends and Fridays only. As grapes went out of season, he switched to packaging and selling other fruits. His hard work and humble approach (he doesnโt pressure people to buy) have earned him respect in the community.