NEWS
International Award for Bambisanani Partnership
For the second year running, The Bambisanani Partnership has been named as International Sport and Physical Education Charity of the Year at the annual Acquisition International Non-Profit Organisation Awards.
For the second year running, The Bambisanani Partnership has been named as International Sport and Physical Education Charity of the Year at the annual Acquisition International Non-Profit Organisation Awards.
The Bambisanani Partnership is a multi-award-winning UK based charity that originated as a partnership between St. Mary’s Catholic School in Menston, UK and Mnyakanya High School in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa in 2006. The partnership, which is run entirely by volunteers, uses the power of sport as a catalyst to promote education, health, global citizenship and leadership has gained international acclaim for its work. The partnership now involves more than 40 schools and universities in both the UK and South Africa. The University of Leeds, Leeds Trinity University and Newcastle College are key members of the partnership. In South Africa, the partnership operates in the Nkandla region which one of most remote and deprived parts of the country with over 90% unemployment and one of highest Aids/HIV rates in the world. ‘Bambisanani’ is a Zulu word meaning ‘working hand in hand’ which aptly encapsulates the philosophy of the partnership which seeks to provide collaborative learning opportunities for young people in both countries. The partnership has been recognised for its work contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals relating to Health and Education and is a founding member of Sport and Sustainability International.
The award was presented in South Africa this year by Priscilla Guliwe from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education who said, “It is a great honour to present this prestigious award to the awesome Bambisanani Partnership. Making one small change can change a life. The Bambisanani Partnership is changing the lives of our learners in South Africa and in the UK. Excellence is a choice, and that is why Physical Education and Sport is so important in developing young people; healthy body and healthy mind. The Bambisanani Partnership is helping young people to excel in so many ways.”
Mrs Pk Zondi, Bambisanani Coordinator at Mnyakanya School and Mrs Catherine Chattoe, Bambisanani Coordinator at St. Mary’s School, received the award on behalf of the partnership.
Mrs Zondi said “It was so exciting to hear the good news about the Bambisanani Partnership. It means we are a winning team; it is really amazing that the Bambisanani Partnership is so highly recognised. I was overwhelmed by the surprise. To be chosen as a receiver of this award on behalf of the partnership is a great honour; I felt so humbled.”
Mrs Chattoe commented, “To receive this international award in South Africa with Pk was so special. The Bambisanani Partnership all about making a difference through our team and our collaborations. We were able represent our team members from both countries who work tirelessly day in day out to implement our programmes. This is a great honour for our team.”
Over the past eighteen years, more than 23,000 young people from the UK and South Africa (from primary school to university) have participated in a variety of Bambisanani Partnership programmes and projects including ‘Leadership through Sport’, Sports Festivals’ Cycling to Success’, ‘Literacy through Sport’, ‘Numeracy through Sport’ ‘Art through Sport’, ‘Learning through Football’, ‘International Athletics Challenge’ and the joint training of Physical Education teachers and Sports Coaches.
In addition to ongoing programmes, 38 young people from St. Mary’s School, University of Leeds and Newcastle College have volunteered in South Africa this year. A group of South African teachers and students will visit Leeds later in the year.
Beyond this the charity has been instrumental in bringing clean drinking water and computers to schools as well as rebuilding houses and providing university bursaries to disadvantaged young people; always working in partnership with the local community.
The work of the partnership has been highlighted at conferences throughout the world, including the Global Sport for All Summit held at the Vatican and at the International Olympic Academy.
David Geldart, Founder and CEO of the partnership added, “It was just wonderful and most fitting that Catherine and Pk received this most significant award on behalf of the team. They represent the two founding schools of our charity and the beating heart of our mission to use the power of sport to change lives for the better. They are absolutely outstanding and we simply would not be where we are today without their inspirational commitment and dedication.”
Bambisanani Partnership International Athletics Challenge goes further, faster and higher!
The 4th Annual Bambisanani Partnership International Athletics Challenge, supported by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport, Arts & Culture and Coastland Hotel and Resorts, brought together 13 primary schools.
The 4th Annual Bambisanani Partnership International Athletics Challenge, supported by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport, Arts & Culture and Coastlands Hotels and Resorts, brought together 13 primary schools: 10 from rural KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa and 3 from the Leeds in the UK. Students (aged 9 and 10) participated in a range of athletics challenges in their own schools and then compared performances ‘virtually’ to create competition between the schools. 355 learners participated this year bringing the total over the past four years to 1,207.
There was a further development this year with a central venue Athletics Festival being held in South Africa for schools from the Nkandla region. This Festival was supported by young Sports Leaders from St. Mary’s School in the UK. Catherine Chattoe, Bambisanani Coordinator from St. Mary’s said, “The Festival in Nkandla was absolutely fantastic bringing young people together from both countries. The excitement levels were off the scale from all involved. It would be wonderful to be able to extend this programme to more schools and to provide further opportunities for the very talented young people that we are discovering.”
The South African schools involved were: Vumanhlamvu, Makhanyezi, Iwangu, Kwa-Mtshwili, Mome, Ntumbeni, Sigananda, Iwangu, Dlabe and Silambo. The UK schools involved were all from the Bishop Wheeler Catholic Academy Trust and included St. Joseph’s, Pudsey; St. Mary’s, Horsforth and Holy Name, Cookridge.
The Challenge was originally devised by Bambisanani Founder, David Geldart who explained, “The Bambisanani Partnership is about bringing young people together through sport from both countries in order that they can ‘work together and learn together’. We have created a simple and fun programme that reflects the very essence of athletics with an approach relevant to everyone involved regardless of ability. We have provided opportunities for youngsters to compete against themselves and against others, in their own school and between schools, in their own country and internationally. A wide range of awards reflect our values with certificates and medals available to learners in all participating schools for excellence, effort, progress and leadership. The Challenge provides multiple opportunities for learners to achieve and succeed; the response from schools, educators and learners has been fantastic.”
The programme gives great importance to all participants working hard to improve their own personal performance over time in six different events for both boys and girls: 50m run, 200m run, Standing Long Jump, Three Hop Jump, Tennis Ball Throw and Football Throw. Students were initially taught the basic activity and then established their own ‘personal best’ in each of the events. Over the past several months, the children were given the opportunity to practise, rehearse and experiment in order to improve their personal best performances. A remarkable 72% of all learners involved made significant progress over time in at least three different events and were awarded special certificates to recognise this. All schools held their own competitions which created 156 new School Champions with the top three performers in each event receiving a certificate. In addition to this, 16 students were identified as being the best all-round performers across all events, 17 students were recognised as making the most improvement over all events and 16 students were celebrated as Exceptional Leaders for their work during the programme ‘helping, supporting and encouraging others’.
Most improved Athletes: Nene Thembelihle, Mhlongo Seluleko, Mnguni Simelokuhle, Sibiya Lethokuhle, Khayelihle Khanyile, Khayelihle Hadebe, Caitlin Robson, Tommy O’Connell, Mia Grace Keenan, Eoin O’Neill, Ayakhula Bhengu, Ayanda Ngema, Alwande Biyela, Thabiso Zulu, Lois Quinn, Alexander Taylor
Best all-round Athletes: Zulu Uyaphila, Majlis Kuhlekonke, Shange Senzokule, Qwabe Alwande, Lubanzi Mthembu, Njabulo Mthembu, Maliibongwe Khanyile, Holly Miller, Thomas Turnbull, Ellie Smith, Aayen Akhtar, Mpilonhle Nxumalo, Simbonge Sithole, Melokuhle Biyela, Ndlovu Masijabule, Isabel Sutcliffe, Thomas Ward
Outstanding Leaders: Sikhakhane Nonjabulo, Change Mongezi, Nzuza Nombuso, Sibhaca Siyapha, Daphiwe Mkhize, Thubelihle Thusi, Ruari Burke, Isobel Bartkow, Amira Ahmed, Dylan Taqk, Simthandile Sithole, Mvuselelo Ngcobo, Aphelele Biyela, Melokukuhle Ndima, Evie Collinge, Henry Bowker
William Vilakazi, Principal of Vumanhlamvu Primary School said, “The Bambisanani Athletics Challenge is a completely new sport code for many schools in the deep rural areas such as Nkandla. Most of the schools lack proper resources and sports fields for sports activities. Learners and educators were initially struggling to understand some of the challenges such as Relay in the beginning of the Athletics Challenge, even to use stopwatches because it was their first time to experience it. The Athletic Challenge has brought joy and happiness in our school and another area where learners can prove their potential. Both learners and educators seem to enjoy it during physical education classes. As a result of a wide range of Bambisanani initiatives we are seeing improvements in self-esteem, behaviour and academic progress."
Learners clearly loved the Challenges:
“l really enjoyed the Standing Long Jump and the Tennis Ball Throw - l even practice these things with my friends at home now.”
“I was so happy to participate in the Bambisanani Athletics competition. l really enjoyed the Relay and l want to be a gold medal winner next year. Thank you, Bambisanani Partnership, for donating sports equipment to make these things possible.”
“l won this year in the Tennis Ball Throw. l want to excel next year again. l will have to work hard for this.”
David Farmer, Deputy Headteacher from St. Joseph’s Pudsey Primary School in Leeds who travelled to South Africa with the team of volunteers from St. Mary’s School and supported the Nkandla Athletics Festival said, "This year we returned to South Africa and involved even more schools and learners in the Athletics Festival. The children undertook a variety of fun warm up activities then went to each ‘athletics station’, where they received coaching from the young leaders from the UK. Coaching cards were provided to the schools so they could continue their teaching of athletics in preparation for next year. The young leaders were amazed at the enthusiasm and eagerness that the South African pupils showed. They commented that it was one of the many highlights of their visit and were grateful of the opportunity to use their coaching skills internationally. From my perspective it was wonderful to see so many children competing and interacting with our young leaders, the numbers of children competing had significantly increased from last year. Smiles were on the faces of all those involved, from pupil to coaches, and it was great to have the chance to be there at the awards ceremony when the medals were presented. I will never forget the joy of parents dancing and singing, sharing in their child's achievement. As one of the adults on the team, it was great to stand back and see the young leaders step forward to take on coaching roles so effectively. There was real learning through sport on so many levels. We have to extend this outstanding initiative."
David Geldart concluded, “My sincere thanks to all the schools, educators, volunteers and children involved in this growing event; we have had much to celebrate this year with some interesting new developments. Having student volunteers from Leeds to create an Athletics Festival for the South African primary schools was an outstanding success. Special thanks also the KZN Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and to Coastlands Hotels and Resorts for their support and sponsorship; we look forward to further partnership work with them in the future. This programme is producing such a positive result and it now important to work with all stakeholders to develop it even further.”
The 10th Annual Martin Green Memorial Golf Tournament in aid of Cancer Research UK reaches new heights
The Martin Green Memorial Golf Tournament remembers a remarkable man who whilst a teacher at St. Mary’s School, Menston played an important role in developing the Bambisanani Partnership – a unique charity that uses the power of sport to change lives of some of the poorest children in South Africa.
The Tenth Annual Tournament was held at East Morton Golf Club, as it always is, and raised £1,517 for Cancer Research UK. Over the past ten years this event has now raised over £12,300 for the charity.
The weather completely defied a terrible forecast and the day was a tremendous success, marked with wonderful camaraderie, great fun, superb hospitality and some outstanding golf. 23 people played in the 18-hole Stableford tournament with many others making generous donations and providing prizes.
Winner Connor Mitchell
The winner of the 2024 Martin Green Memorial Trophy was Connor Mitchell with a very impressive 46 Stableford points. Playing for the first time in the tournament it was a remarkable day for Connor, not only did he win the prestigious silver trophy he also won the Nearest the Pin competition and manage to score two 2’s during the course of his excellent round. Former winner Mark Sutcliffe was runner up on 43 points and another former winner, Craig Thornton took third place with 42 points. The Longest Drive competition was won by Adam Antenbring, the Straightest Drive competition by Anne Emsley. The Putting prize went to Andy Doherty for the second year running. The awards this year were presented by Alex Smickersgill.
This year’s Champion Connor Mitchell said, “It’s a real honour to have won this competition in Memory of Martin Green. The event has been brilliantly organised and it is for such a good cause.”
Straightest Drive - Anne Emsley
The event was organised by former friends and colleagues of Martin; Alex Smickersgill, Catherine Chattoe and David Geldart. David said, “Massive thanks to everyone that played and supported the event in any way. We are indebted to Jean Green (Martin’s Mum), Fred Heaton, Danny Halligan, Duncan Baines, Michelle Hefferon and Mike Gosling for making it such a great occasion. Special thanks to all the organisations and individuals that provided an absolutely outstanding array prizes and refreshments. Thank you of course to St. Mary’s School and all the team East Morton Golf Club who always go the extra mile to ensure that this tournament is a tremendous success and celebration. We are already looking forward to next year’s competition which will be our 11th Anniversary event and edging towards a target of raising £15,000 for Cancer Research UK.”
Runner-up Mark Sutcliffe
Longest Drive - Adam Atenbring
Nearest the Pin - Connor Mitchell
Putting Award - Andy Doherty
Westminster Abbey honour for the Bambisanani Partnership
David Geldart represented the Bambisanani Partnership at the Service
David Geldart the Founder and CEO of the Bambisanani Partnership charity was recently invited to attend a Service of Thanksgiving to mark the 30th year of South Africa’s democracy at Westminster Abbey in London.
The service was conducted by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, who said:
“We meet under God and in good company to give thanks for thirty years of democracy in South Africa. In 1994, South Africans held their first non-racial, democratic elections. After voting in those elections, Nelson Mandela spoke of ‘a new era of hope, reconciliation and nation building’. Thirty years down the long road to justice and righteousness, we now honour those who have carried that flame and worked tirelessly in that cause. Giving thanks for their courage and their witness, we recommit ourselves to the vision of a nation free from domination of any kind. We pledge ourselves to effort and hope. Here we will pray for ourselves and for South Africa and the welfare of all her people.”
Lord Boateng gave a passionate Address
Lord Boateng, A former British High Commissioner to South Africa, gave a passionate and inspiring Address to the 2,000 strong international congregation that included Her Majesty Queen Nompumelelo Zulu.
The service included performances by South African tenor Innocent Masuku. Reflections were given by Christina McAnea, General Secretary of UNISON and by the Honourable Ronald Lamola MP, minister of Internation Relations and Cooperation, representing the government of South Africa. Mr Bassim Haidar, Honorary Consul of South Africa affirmed the call to unity given President Nelson Mandela. At the end of the service, faith leaders representing the Hindu, Jewish and Muslim communities, offered words of blessing for South Africa and its peoples.
Her Majesty Queen Nompumelelo Zulu attended the Service
David Geldart said, “As an Anti-Apartheid campaigner and someone that has worked in and with South Africa for the past 18 years it was a great honour to attend this most significant event to not only give thanks and praise for what has been achieved but also to reflect and consider the future actions. I remember vividly the TV footage 30 years ago of snaking queues of people that stretched for mile after mile waiting with great dignity to vote for the very first time in their lives. A most significant moment in history; a message for humanity from humanity. We had been told for years that this could never happen but we believed and had faith that it would; it did happen. Some years later I would meet and make enduring friendships with many people that had stood in those queues - their stories and their hope had a profound impact on me as had those TV scenes of first-time voters. Many of these people became key members of the Bambisanani Partnership and over the past 18 years we have together we have engaged more than 21,000 young people from both South Africa and the UK in our various projects and programmes using sport as a catalyst to promote education, health, global citizenship and leadership. Much has been achieved but there is more to do. It really was a great honour to represent the Bambisanani Partnership team at this wonderful event.”
The service included performances by South African tenor Innocent Masuku
The Honourable Ronald Lamola MP gave a Reflection
Published: 17/07/2024
Wheels in Motion for Bambisanani Partnership and KZN Cycling
For the past 18 years, the Bambisanani Partnership has operated in the most challenging rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) in South Africa using the power of sport to transform lives. During that time more 20,000 young people from the UK and South Africa have engaged in the charity’s various projects and programmes.
For the past 18 years, the Bambisanani Partnership has operated in the most challenging rural areas of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) in South Africa using the power of sport to transform lives. During that time more 20,000 young people from the UK and South Africa have engaged in the charity’s various projects and programmes.
Key Bambisanani partner, The University of Leeds, introduced a pioneering cycling programme ten years ago which had a significant impact in an area where young people routinely walk 2 hours to and from school each day. The work led to discussions with KZN Cycling and a formal partnership which aims to train up to 5,000 young people a year how to ride and maintain bikes.
KZN Cycling has wholeheartedly embraced the provincial and national government’s mission of being able to transform the sport and recreation environment through integrated, sustainable mass participation, development and high-performance programmes at all levels by ensuring equitable access, as well as aligning to government outcomes to improve the quality of life of all the citizens of KwaZulu-Natal.
The KZN Cycling Development Programme which was started in earnest in 2018 with the support of the department has grown and matured into an internationally recognised project of excellence. It is recognised as the most expansive development programme on the African Continent and certainly one of the top sports development rollout plans worldwide. The programme is not only about developing young riders in all 11 districts in KZN, but also staging numerous capacity building programmes in key linked elements such as training mechanics, race officials, marshals and course and track builders alike with the express aim being for these courses to lead to job creation opportunities for the attending candidates.
Many excellent programmes are in progress in KZN and the rest of the country, but a major downfall of many elements is due to the “silo effect” that many organisations and bodies employ where good work continues to be done, but by embracing work being done by others in the area or the sector, the positive benefits can be increased significantly. This was the underlying desire in creating the ground breaking arrangement between KZN Cycling and the Bambisanani Partnership whereby with the support of the UK based charity, KZN Cycling was able to establish a cycling hub in Nkandla that started operating fully from July 2023.
New bikes and helmets, a storage facility, a new bike trailer to transport the bikes to the surrounding schools and equipment to be able to run the training clinics were all put in place and a development coach from the community was trained and installed to carry out the clinics in the broader Nkandla area. By the end of June 2024, a total of 161 training clinics have been staged at more than ten different schools in the area with 4,034 learners being involved during the course of the year. Local competitions have also been staged that have seen the youngsters being able to test themselves against their peers from the region, and apart from earning bragging rights, this process serves as a valuable tool to be able to identify talented riders with potential who then start being fed into the system to received additional and advanced training from the HP coaches that visit the area on a regular basis.
The programme has been extremely well received, and Priscilla Guliwe, Circuit Coordinator for the KZN Department of Education said, “The cycling development programme that is now in place in the area has created a lot of excitement and interest and in fact, all 26 schools in my circuit want to be part of the project - they are so interested. Hopefully we can arrange for the plans to be expanded in the following years” which is indeed encouraging and proves that through small beginning, hard work and foresight, great things can come about.”
Alec Lenferna, CEO of KZN Cycling had this to say, “We are really happy at how things have started to develop in Nkandla. Every area that we operate in is different and has its own characteristics and some challenges, and Nkandla has been no different at times. But, in conjunction with the local role players and Priscilla and her team from the Education Department in the area, we have been able to navigate through the challenges and we believe that now that we have put down the roots, we can really start driving things forward at an even greater pace in the area. We have an open and honest association with the Bambisanani Partnership that have been part of the discussions to find solutions to challenges when they have arisen, and this is what positive and embracing partnerships should be and we look forward to developing and evolving the programme collectively as time goes on”.
David Geldart from the Bambisanani Partnership added, “This is a really exciting programme that brings together local communities, KZN Cycling, KZN Department of Education, KZN Department of Sport, Arts & Culture and ourselves. We all have a great commitment to working together and learning together for the benefit of bringing all that cycling can offer to remote rural communities. The international research on bringing cycling to such areas is incredibly powerful: increased school attendance, reduced school lateness, increased school attainment, increased accessed to employment and healthcare as well as well as being a safer means of transport for women and girls. Add to this the fun, enjoyment and freedom that cycling can offer. Our collaboration is highly motivated to develop and extend this programme.”
Considering that this work has never been done before in this area, Year One of this joint programme has gone very well; not without some challenges, but these are far outweighed by the huge number of successes that have been achieved. Happy, smiling and healthy youngsters on bikes are all positive side effects of efforts that have been put in by a number of people this year, and success often breeds success and the next phases of the project promise much. Later this year, student volunteers from the University of Leeds will spend a month in South Africa supporting this ambitious and impactful programme.
Published: 03/07/2024
8-year-old Althaeá makes a world of difference
When 8-year-old Althaeá Dickinson from York, was talking to her grandad about World Book Day at her school she asked him if schools in South Africa, where the Bambisanani Partnership charity operates, were involved in World Book Day.
When 8-year-old Althaeá Dickinson from York, was talking to her grandad about World Book Day at her school she asked him if schools in South Africa, where the Bambisanani Partnership charity operates, were involved in World Book Day. She was very disappointed to hear that most schools in the rural Nkandla area of KwaZulu-Natal were not involved in World Book Day and that many schools had very few reading books and that very few children had books at home.
Althaeá said ‘If it is World Book Day then all the children in the world should be involved’. She was determined to do something about a situation that she did not think was right. This prompted her first ever emails to book shops explaining the situation and asking if they could help by providing books that the Yorkshire based Bambisanani Partnership charity could take to South African primary schools when volunteers visited this summer.
There was a fantastic response and over the last few months Althaeá has collected a remarkable 1,091 books from different shops and individual donations. With the help of volunteers from St. Mary’s School, Menston and Newcastle College these books are now in South Africa being used at Vumanhlamvu Primary School, Ntolwane Primary School, Little Flower Primary School in Eshowe and the Zulufadder Doremi Kindergarten for orphans and vulnerable children.
Althaeá said, “So many people have helped with this project and I would like to thank everyone for listening to me and for being so kind. It is great to see the children with books now.”
Books were very generously donated in Yorkshire by The Grove Book Shop, Ilkley; Castlegate Books, Knaresborough; Fox Lane Books, Thorpe Wiloughby; WH Smith, Ilkley; Waterstones, (Leeds and Doncaster) and Morrisons.
William Vilakazi, Principal of Vumanhlamvu Primary School commented, “My school serves one of the most deprived rural areas of the country and we have few resources. However, our children are very keen to learn. These books will excite and motivate my learners, improving reading and listening skills. Althaeá has already been in contact via video with my learners asking about their favourite books and characters from the books. My learners have responded to her; this initiative has already connected young people from the UK and South Africa. It is difficult to comprehend that Althaeá, at the age of only 8, has made all this happen. She is amazing; the world needs more people like her.”
Darren Beardsley, Chairman of the Bambisanani Partnership added, “Althaeá is a remarkable young person who is clearly determined to make a difference in the world. Many people have great ideas but never actually do anything with them. Althaeá recognised an inequality and did something about it. Her actions will help develop literacy and a love of reading, the importance of this cannot not be overstated. This programme will also help us connect schools in the UK and South Africa. We are delighted to have Althaeá as our youngest but very effective volunteer.”
Writing to Althaeá, Priscilla Guliwe, from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education said, “The books were received with lots and lots of love. We appreciate the initiative especially from a young girl like you. Keep it up. I am happy to report that the resources provided are in line with what the KZN Department of Education is advocating. They will assist in the love of reading that will lead to reading for meaning, that is why we are promoting DAAR period to maintain a reading culture. (Drop All And Read). According to PIRLS results (Progress International Reading Literacy Study), learners achieved below expected levels in reading. One of the main recommendations is that resources such as school libraries and classroom libraries must be available. Your books are very important and helpful to the young children because learners should engage in reading a variety of books to become critical and creative thinkers. Reading for enjoyment, if learners enjoy reading, this will raise the literacy levels and improve the ability of learners to learn.”
Additionally, Althaeá recently completed a tough 4.5-mile sponsored coastal walk in Cornwall raising £410 for the international charity Water Aid UK which operates around the world, including South Africa, working to make clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene normal for everyone.
Well done Althaeá!
To support Althaeá’s Bambisanani literacy project in South Africa, please contact d.geldart@bambisananipartnership.org
Eight-year-old Althaeá makes a world of difference (ILKLEY GAZETTE)
Golf Tournament in memory of Bambisanani champion will raise money for Cancer Research UK
If you would like to play, donate or provide a prize or auction item then please contact Alex Smickersgill.
Newcastle College students are outstanding members of the Bambisanani Partnership in South Africa
Students and staff from Newcastle College have recently returned from the college’s second annual visit to South Africa as part of the Bambisanani Partnership.
Students and staff from Newcastle College have recently returned from the college’s second annual visit to South Africa as part of the Bambisanani Partnership.
The team, comprising of 12 members, two staff, Barry Rizza and Brogan O’Connor, and 10 students: Abby Morgan, Amber Johnson, Aurelia Penman, Cadence Parkin, Holly Hamilton, Jack Stanley, Jay Hopwood, Josh Knox, Kieran Thomas, and Niamh Thompson embarked on a 26-hour journey to Eshowe, South Africa. Over the course of three weeks, they volunteered in rural KwaZulu-Natal, using the power of sport to positively impact both their own lives and children in the local schools and orphanages.
The team worked at Matholamnyama Secondary School, Ngqamzana Primary School, Thembinfundo Special School and the Zulufadder Doremi Day Centre for orphans and vulnerable children, all located in KwaZulu-Natal. Engaging with children aged 2-13, they hosted sports and leadership sessions throughout the 16-day visit. These sessions, attended by 1,156 South African students, fostered skills in sports, leadership, communication, team building, and confidence.
Jack Stanley, a Level 4 PE and Sport Coaching student, reflected, “Seeing the children’s smiles when we arrived at the orphanage and primary school was so inspiring. It motivated me to make the most of each day with them and change their lives as best I could. I really enjoyed every moment; it was a pleasure to be there.”
Cadence Parkin, a Level 4 Aviation student, commented, “What a wholesome trip! We were there to teach the children, but they left the biggest impression on me. Their smiles and hearts are immense and will forever be in my heart.”
Sport Rehab student Kieran Thomas added, “This has been an absolutely life-changing experience. It was fulfilling, taught me so much, and made me value all the little things we take for granted in the UK. I have loved every second.”
The team began their stay with an administrative day, organising donations, preparing sports equipment, and planning their sessions. Following on from this, their second day was spent at Doremi Day Centre, affectionately dubbed the ‘happiest place in the world’ by the Newcastle College students. They engaged in reading, sports, singing and dancing with 52 young children, experiencing an incredibly warm and impactful welcome to Eshowe. The wonderful Popi Buthelizi who runs Doremi wrote, “Dear our family from Newcastle. Thank-you so much for visiting us, you made us feel so special and the children loved you. The books and clothes made the children very happy. The guardians of the children were delighted to see their children come back home with clothes from overseas, it is not every day you get to wear clothes from overseas. I am sure they will only wear them on Christmas Day since they are so special to them. Once again thank-you so much, until we meet again. Love, Popi.”
Over the weekend, the team visited Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve and and a visit to Dlinza Rainforest Boardwalk learning much about ecology and endangered wildlife.
During the second week, the group returned to Ngqamzana Primary School, almost a year after the university’s previous visit. They spent a day with each grade (3-7) and were treated to an impressive and emotional thank-you ceremony on Friday. The entire school performed traditional dances and songs, and Newcastle College student Abby Morgan and staff member Barry Rizza gave moving speeches on behalf of the group.
Mr. Ngobo, a Maths teacher at Ngqamzana Primary School, expressed his gratitude, saying, “We thank you for your support more than words can express. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you very much for your generous contributions. With supporters like you, we know we can achieve our goals. Thank you for believing in our mission and helping us make a positive impact in society. We are so grateful for our partnership which is making a difference. This is your home; you are welcome anytime. God bless you.”
Abby Morgan, a Level 4 Childcare and Education student, followed up with, “I want to thank everyone for the warm welcome and incredible atmosphere. It has been an honour and a privilege to spend time with you. This week has been special, showcasing teamwork, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship. The true spirit of sport is about coming together, supporting one another, and having fun. To the children, your smiles, determination, and energy have been inspiring. Continue to play with passion, be kind, and believe in yourselves. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. This week has been unforgettable, and I will carry the memories with me always.”
On Saturday, the team joined forces with a fellow Bambisanani volunteer group from St. Mary's School, Menston, at Thembimfundo Special School. The Newcastle College and St. Mary’s teams were treated to an impressive display of traditional Zulu dancing by Thembimfundo students. The UK students then facilitated a carousel of 10 adapted sports activities. The principal of Thembimfundo Special School commented, “No words can best describe how happy I am for the wonderful things you have done for us. We had an amazing time, and our learners are so excited. We look forward to hosting you again in the future and working with you in partnership, creating learning opportunities for students from both countries.”
The team also spent time with Graham Chennells, the former Mayor of Eshowe and long-term supporter of the Bambisanani Partnership. Graham shared fascinating stories about his life in Eshowe and the history of the area.
Much of the final week was spent at Matholamnyama Secondary School, where the team delivered a range of sports and leadership sessions to different age ranges throughout the school. With 70 to 80 learners in each group the Newcastle College students frequently had a further 300 students watching the delivery of the session. The school organised a celebration event on the final day where the outstanding leadership and presentation skills of the South African students were clearly evident. One Grade 10 Matholamnyama student gave an outstanding speech on behalf of her school: “It is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to express our heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for coming to our school and teaching us sports, your dedication passion and willingness to share your knowledge has made a significant impact on our school. Sports plays a big role in the development of young minds, teaching us teamwork, discipline and the importance of physical fitness. Your efforts have not only enhanced our skills but also contributed to our overall personal growth. We extend a big applause on behalf of our sisters and brothers in all grades. Thank you for your time effort and commitment. Your contribution has not only inspired us but also created lasting memories that we will carry for years. We are deeply grateful for your support and hope to continue this partnership in the years to come.”
Brogan O’Connor, Enrichment and Development Manager at Newcastle College and Bambisanani Trustee, proudly summarized the visit: “Weeks like these make me immensely proud to represent both Newcastle College and The Bambisanani Partnership. The things our students have achieved in the past 18 days, the memories and friendships they have made and the impact they have left with their new friends in South Africa is nothing short of remarkable. Using the power of sport to work together with colleagues and friends at the Zulufadder Doremi Day Centre, Thembinfundo Special School, Ngqamzana Primary School and Matholamnyama Secondary School we have shown that anything is possible. I look forward to continuing to strengthen and grow The Bambisanani Partnership at Newcastle College and can’t wait to see what the next few years holds.
University Success for Bambisanani Student
Thobile Prudence Nsibande recently graduated from the University of South Africa (UNISA) with a Bachelor of Education Degree qualifying her as a teacher.
Thobile Prudence Nsibande recently graduated from the University of South Africa (UNISA) with a Bachelor of Education Degree qualifying her as a teacher.
Thobile was formally a student at Mnyakanya High School where she was inspired to become a teacher and where she was successful in gaining the necessary grades to win a place at university. The Bambisanani Partnership was able to assist Thobile with a bursary to cover some of her course fees. At university Thobile studied IsiZulu (home language), Natural Science, Life Science and Business Studies.
Thobile said “I am so delighted that I have graduated successfully. These special moments at the degree ceremony today were made possible thanks to the belief that the Bambisanani Partnership had in my potential. Thank you to the Bambisanani Partnership Trustees for their invaluable support. I am excited to embark on the next chapter of my life, carrying with me the knowledge and experiences gained through your sponsorship. I have now started job hunting believing that God will open doors for me.”
David Geldart from the partnership added, “Thobile is an outstanding young lady who deserves every success. She has faced many challenges in her life but never ever gave up on her dream to become a teacher despite considerable barriers. Her determination, persistence and resilience are an example to all students. Despite having outstanding ability Thobile was not blessed with opportunities that many students in the world might take for granted. She has had to work extremely hard for everything that she has achieved. She is an exceptional role model; and has already proved to be an inspiration to students from both he UK and South Africa involved in Bambisanani programmes. We are all very proud of Thobile and wish her well in her teaching career.”
Eleanor wins Bambisanani Leadership Award in memory of Sibonelo Magwaza
Bambisanani Partnership Awards in memory of Sbonelo Magwaza are presented annually at Mnyakanya High School and St. Mary’s, Menston; the two founding schools of the Bambisanani Partnership.
Bambisanani Partnership Awards in memory of Sibonelo Magwaza are presented annually at Mnyakanya High School and St. Mary’s, Menston; the two founding schools of the Bambisanani Partnership.
Sibonelo was an outstanding young leader from Mnyakanya School who had completed the Bambisanani Leadership with St. Mary’s students in 2010, sadly he died a few months later. The award has a very special meaning and importance in both schools.
This year’s winner from St. Mary’s is Eleanor Rock who travelled to South Africa as a member of the St. Mary’s volunteer team last year. Catherine Chattoe, Bambisanani Coordinator at St. Mary’s presented the prestigious award at the schools annual Leavers Mass and said, “Eleanor is indeed an outstanding leader who has demonstrated excellent leadership skills and commitment to the partnership. She made a remarkable impact in South Africa making many new friends that she still stays in contact with. Eleanor’s kindness and compassion always shines through; she does all that she does with a beautiful smile. She is an exceptional young person.”
Whilst in South Africa last year Eleanor made a strong friendship with the winner of the Sibonelo Magwaza Award at Mnyakanya School. Bayandu Gcabu.
On hearing that Eleanor was to receive the award at St. Mary’s Bayandu forwarded a message which Mrs Chattoe read out at the presentation event:
Eleanor receives award from Catherine Chattoe’
“I wish to pass on my congratulations to my amazing friend. We became such good friends when they came to work at my school. I am happy that our friendship continues even when we are 6,000 miles apart. They are my first friend from overseas. She helped me with many things and did not hesitate to support me when I was trying to teach tennis to my local primary school children.
We shared everything together even eating our lunch. I learnt a lot from their kindness and discipline. We shared lots of information about our countries and I loved teaching them my Zulu language. Keep on doing good things my special friend. I am also working very hard at school. Please wait for me, I promise to come and visit you some day to see your country. This student has empowered the students at Mnyakanya High School to believe in themselves and to have and follow a dream.”
Congratulations to Eleanor and indeed to Bayandu; two exceptional young leaders who are an inspiration to others. We will follow their progress with great interest!