Events industry charity Meetings Industry Meeting Needs (MIMN) is to pay for school uniforms, shoes and school stationery for 100 HIV/AIDS orphans and vulnerable youngsters at the Zisize centre in Ingwavuma, KwaZulu Natal.

Working through the Starfish Greathearts Foundation, the £3,000 contribution will “enable the youngsters to access education and break the devastating cycle of poverty they find themselves in”, said Starfish’s Global CEO Elinor Middleton.

Middleton said: “The HIV pandemic is causing an orphan crisis in South Africa. The project will ensure these children receive holistic care, meeting their practical, physical, psychosocial and educational needs.”

MIMN executive committee member Tim Chudley said: “Starfish does a fantastic job and we are delighted to support them for a small part of it. As with many of these projects in the area, a little money goes a very long way and can make a real difference.”