As South Africa heads into the festive season, Hold My Hand is inviting people across the country to pause, look around them and choose one small thing they will do to make a child or teen feel loved, safe and seen.
The “Just One Thing” competition is a national storytelling call-out that celebrates everyday moments that matter: reading a bedtime story, walking to school together, cooking a simple meal, playing a game, checking in about feelings or prioritising a child’s safety on a busy day. November is Children’s Month, and the competition offers a meaningful way to celebrate the children in our lives.
From 20 to 30 November 2025, anyone living in South Africa can enter by sharing one real moment, plan or tradition involving a child or teen in their life during the festive season. Entries may be submitted in various formats including a short audio clip with an image, a short video, a photo with a caption, a drawing or artwork shared as a clear photo with a caption or a short written piece such as a story, letter, message or poem. Entries must be submitted via WhatsApp to 0600 411 111.
Lebo Motshegoa, Communications Content Lead at Hold My Hand, says small acts often have the biggest impact. She notes that real change for children begins with simple everyday actions. According to her, these small moments remind people that they have the power to show up for the children and teens in their lives.
Airtime spot prizes of R500 will be awarded through random draws from valid entries received during the competition window. Five cash prizes of R5 000 will be awarded to the top judged entries, selected for their heart, clarity and creativity in capturing their “just one thing” story.
A judging panel will look for entries that feel honest, clear and creative, whether submitted by a child, teenager, parent, grandparent, older sibling, teacher, neighbour or caregiver.
Network Mobiliser Mesuli Kama says children are shaped daily by what happens in their homes, schools and communities. He notes that when people share the small ways they show up for children, especially when finances are limited or life is stressful, it sends a message that care is both possible and meaningful.
“Just One Thing” forms part of the broader Hold My Hand campaign, which supports the National Strategy to Accelerate Action for Children by placing real-life stories and intergenerational connection at the centre of change. The campaign calls on families, communities, civil society, business and government to help build a South Africa where every child can grow up healthy, safe, supported and able to reach their full potential.
