SHE never attended her own matric dance as her family couldn't afford it.
Now, she wants to give pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds a chance to experience theirs.
Former stripper and reality TV star Bubbly Sodela is stepping in to support grade 12 pupils as they prepare for their matric dances.
The 31-year-old Bubbly, known for her role on the reality TV show This Body Works for Me, plans to give away three gowns from her personal wardrobe to pupils.
Speaking to Daily Sun, she said she'd also take the recipients shopping for heels valued at up to R500.
Her initiative is aimed at helping girls feel confident and special on one of the most memorable nights of their school journey.
"I've decided to help them because some kids don't have the privilege and others can't afford. I've met kids who are orphans, and they need help," she said.
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Bubbly said more people have come forward to help more pupils.
"I think this is going to go far. Some have donated make-up and I'm also going to work on getting sponsorship from a hair company I work with," she said.
She said that she couldn't attend her own matric dance.
"I never attended because my parents couldn't afford. I regret not going, but I was already doing modelling. So, everyone was expecting and excited to see how I was going to look that night, but I decided not to go. I didn't want to bother anyone and decided not to go," she said.
Bubbly also acknowledged that male pupils may need support too.
"Anyone who is willing to help these young people is welcome to come through and help because this can change a life," she added.
