LIFA Magagula's precious Nike and New Balance sneakers vanished, leaving the teen devastated and desperate for their return.
The 17-year-old lost her beloved pair of footwear when it fell from her bag as she left a church camp in Zuurbekom, Westonaria, on Sunday 11 May.
"Losing them felt like a real punch in my stomach," Lifa told Daily Sun, her voice heavy with emotion.
"My heart is sore."
The grade 12 pupil revealed the sneakers weren't just ordinary shoes - they were a special reward for her academic excellence.
"I have been working hard, and these were presented to me when I got to grade 12," said Lifa.
"They represented recognition for my academic efforts."
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The situation is made worse by Lifa's mum Jane Magagula not working, making it impossible to replace the costly footwear.
"I'm no longer working, and it's going to be hard for me to replace them," said Jane.
She pleaded for the finder to show mercy.
The Magagula family hopes someone in and around Zuurbekom might have spotted the distinctive sneakers and will have the heart to return them.
Do you know where Lifa's sneakers are?
Your kindness could end the teenager's heartbreak.
Contact Daily Sun immediately with any information.
