Cassie Cares was born from the heart of a family deeply committed to uplifting others. Founded under the Mahlangu Foundation by former Miss SA Teen Phuti Khomo and her husband Mr. Mahlangu, the initiative was inspired by the birth of their daughter, Cassandra-May Mahlangu. As new parents, they wanted their child to grow up with every opportunity they never had—and that dream expanded into a powerful mission to provide the same for other children in underserved communities.
They saw the growing gap between privileged learners and those from township schools—children with immense potential but limited resources. From this realisation, Cassie Cares was created: a movement that ensures children from all backgrounds receive the same quality education, care, and guidance that their own daughter would receive. It is both a personal legacy and a public promise—to give every child a fair start.
Our mission is to bridge the educational and developmental divide for children and youth across South Africa, especially in underprivileged communities. We do this by creating access to quality education, life skills, emotional support, and nutritional care - ensuring every young person has the tools to build a brighter future.
Cassie Cares offers a wide range of youth and child development programmes - from early learning and reading readiness to digital skills, mental health counselling, nutrition, and creative expression. Our multimedia centres act as vibrant community hubs where children aged 0–35 can learn, grow, and thrive.
We believe in holistic support: combining education with health, personal development, and real-world skills. Our initiatives include coding, agriculture training, art workshops, youth mentorship, a mothers’ support group, and a feeding scheme. Every programme is rooted in Ubuntu - uplifting the individual by uplifting the collective.
At the core of Cassie Cares is a deep respect for people - we serve by partnering with the very communities we aim to empower. We work alongside local leaders, educators, families, and organisations who want lasting change for their youth. Together, we co-create solutions that are relevant, respectful, and sustainable.
Our values are simple but powerful: Excellence, Compassion, Partnership, and Integrity. We believe in caring for others, striving for the highest standards, and acting with kindness in all we do. By staying true to these principles, we ensure that every young life we touch is given not just support - but dignity, purpose, and hope.