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NIVEA is inviting South Africans to nominate matric learners for the opportunity to receive support as they prepare for their matric dance.
Through the Friends of NIVEA community, two selected learners will be supported throughout their getting-ready journey, from fashion and grooming to transport, photography and other preparations], as well as the encouragement and guidance that can make an important milestone feel even more meaningful.
The initiative is led by teacher and content creator Smangele Shabalala, affectionately known as Thick Dudle, alongside content creators Sphokuhle Ntshalintshali and Philani Mthembu.
For Smangele, whose role as a teacher has always extended beyond the classroom, the initiative is an opportunity to help create a memory that a learner can carry with them long after school ends.
“Matric dance represents so much more than getting dressed up for one evening. It is a celebration of how far a learner has come and the people who have supported them along the way. I am excited to help make that moment special for someone,” says Shabalala.
Sphokuhle and Philani will accompany the learners through different parts of their preparation, bringing the reassurance and encouragement of a supportive big sister and big brother.
Through NIVEA MEN, Philani will mentor the selected young man as he prepares for the occasion, creating space for conversations about grooming, self-care and what it means to show up with confidence.
“At NIVEA, we believe care can give people the confidence to step fully into life’s important moments,” says Sne Njapha, Senior Precision Influence and PR Manager. “Through Friends of NIVEA, we want these learners to feel celebrated, supported and reminded that they do not have to prepare for their big moment alone.”
A matric dance marks the closing of one chapter and the exciting, sometimes uncertain, beginning of another. Behind the final photograph is often a teacher who believed in you, a friend who encouraged you, a sibling who offered advice or a community that found a way to make the occasion special.
Through this initiative, NIVEA is extending its long-standing commitment to care beyond its products and into a shared experience that can make a meaningful difference.
How to nominate a learner
Members of the public can nominate a matric learner by visiting LINK and sharing why this opportunity would be meaningful to them. Entries are currently open and close on 23 September 2026.
Because confidence is not only about how you look when you step into your moment. It is also about knowing that someone showed up for you.
ABOUT NIVEA
With over 110 years of expertise, NIVEA is the inventor of modern skincare and the leading skincare expert in the world. It’s an iconic brand that millions of people trust and love. Understanding the importance of healthy, beautiful-looking skin and celebrating all the positive, joyful and connecting experiences that come with it, NIVEA embodies togetherness, positivity and reliable care for everyone and all skin types. Being the world’s No. 1 skincare brand* comes with a responsibility that goes beyond skin. That is why NIVEA strives to improve the environmental compatibility of the whole assortment and actively fights social isolation through its global social mission, NIVEA CONNECT. NIVEA is for skin.
*Source: Euromonitor International Limited; NIVEA by umbrella brand name in the categories Body Care, Face Care and Hand Care; in retail value terms, 2022)