Aberdeen Primary’s Dazzling  Debs

Last Thursday Aberdeen Primary held there annual Debs Ball, and what a glittering function it was. The library hall was transformed with imaginative and creative drapes, and the 48 learners involved were dressed to kill.

The girls’ dresses ranged from simply stylish to wonderfully sophisticated, with one local dressmaker being responsible for no less than six of the stunning creations. Zelda Finnis of Lotusville really excelled herself, and showed her versatility in the completely different styles of the dresses, designed to suit the individual girls.

The organization of the evening fell to the ever-competent Lydia Koopman, Janaine Saaiman and Daniel “Fearless” Pieterse, and the smooth running of the function reflected their hard work and enthusiasm. Pieterse, who is the class teacher for grade seven, was a confident and charming MC, and his knowledge of and dedication to the individual pupils was clear to see. Saaiman and Koopman worked tirelessly behind the scenes, making last-minute adjustments to dresses, and showing love and encouragement to even the shyest girls. The nineteen boys were not to be outdone, and looked most handsome and debonair in their dark green sashes.

Some imaginative choreography saw the couples (and in some cases triples) glide around the dance floor with ease, and the many parents and children who were present were entranced at the beautiful display.

 Live music was provided by the jazz band La Petit from Graaff-Reinet. This group, comprising Archie Pienaar on keyboard, Dozza Maarman on guitar, with saxophonist Villa Louther, first performed together in 2004 on Morning Live on SABC2, and has since played at many local functions and festivals. In 2006 they were voted the best jazz band in the Cacadu region – and their performance at this event certainly lived up to expectations.

The main purpose of the debs is to raise money for their end of year tour to Oudtshoorn. To this end, each child in grade 7 had been challenged to raise at least R500.All the children achieved this, with many bringing in amounts greatly in excess of their target. A grand total of over R27000 was raised, which is a magnificent achievement.

The highlight of the evening was of course the announcement of the winning debutantes, but before the winners were announced, each child was called up to receive a small gift. This was very thoughtfully chosen – a toiletry bag for the trip, filled with useful items.

 In third place, Doneve Noni was the second princess, winning for her efforts a DVD player. Second place, first princess, went to Chrizelia Jack, who won a microwave oven. Debutante of the year was Kaylane Kombani, who raised a whopping R4000, a wonderful total. Her prize was a flat screen television.

The prizes, with a total value of about R4000, were all donated by Albert Nel of Die Huis Vriend in Graaff-Reinet. When asked how he had become involved in sponsoring a school in Aberdeen, Nel explained that he had over 200 customers in Aberdeen, and he firmly believed in giving back to a community that supports his business. He had approached Lydia koopman and asked how he could help the school, and she suggested sponsorship of prizes for the debs, never dreaming that the donation would be so generous.

The organizers would like to thank the parents of the school for their generous support, the educators who helped the learners, the members of the school governing body and community, and not least, the sponsors for their generosity.

  Alfie Pienaar and members 0f La Petit who entertained the audience

 The boys in their smart outfits

 Zelda Finnis with the seven girls whose stunning dresses she made

Well dressed young friends

 Janaine Saaiman with some of the beautiful young ladies

 Albie Nel and Katriena Frolick of Die Huis Vriend with the winning debs