NEWS
Bambisanani Partnership brings water to Thembinfundo Special School
Imagine you had no running water? Imagine the implications for drinking, cooking, cleaning, using a toilet?
Imagine you were a Principal of a Residential Special School in rural and remote South Africa with no running water and 280 learners?
This was the biggest challenge facing Thembimfundo Special School in KwaZulu-Natal and the Principal Mr Dalmini. Together with members of the local community, he identified getting clean water into the school as their number one priority.
After an initial visit to the school in January 2023 and two subsequent visits by members of the Bambisanani Partnership team and student volunteers from St. Mary’s School and Newcastle College, this also became an urgent priority for the partnership. Volunteers were shocked and outraged by the conditions and lack of appropriate sanitation. Member of the Bambisanani team, David Farmer, Deputy Headteacher from St. Joseph’s Primary School, Pudsey said “It’s absolutely deplorable; no child or teacher deserves to endure such conditions.” Bambisanani Trustee and Enrichment and Development Manager at Newcastle College, Brogan O’Connor said:. “The conditions are unhygienic and certainly not conducive to optimising teaching and learning; we have to be able to do better than this in this day and age. Having spent time at the school, students and staff from Newcastle are determined to work with all stakeholders in order to improve the situation.”
Resourcing and providing sports equipment for the school has been challenging enough for the partnership; but the purchasing, installation and sustaining of Water Tanks to provide this precious commodity was extremely difficult; but not impossible!
First step
Base being added
New water tanks
With the involvement of Eshowe Rotary Club and Nick Phillips’ expertise and with funds from the partnership, there are now Water Tanks in place for the whole school. On his return from South Africa, David Farmer began a sponsored project to raise funds for the Water Tanks by walking, running and climbing the equivalent distance and height of Africa’s three highest mountains. Earlier in the year Brogan and her team from Newcastle College raised funds for the project by completing the gruelling ultra endurance UK Three Peaks Challenge – ascending the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within 24 hours.
Imagine the difference all this will make.
Mr Dalmini has said “I cannot express in words our thanks, appreciation and gratitude. The difference this will make to our Learners and Educators is beyond my wildest dreams.”
Bambisanani Trustee, Barbara Pounder was one of the first members of the partnership to visit Thembinfundo and has led the initiative to bring water to the school. “Here we came across a school and community who had identified a basic human need. Working in partnership we have made great progress – the school has some clean water now! We are delighted to have been part of the team that is helping to bring about transformative changes to the school but we would like to go further.”
For the moment the Water Tanks are being filled by Water Tanker vehicles from the Municipality. This is a short-term emergency measure and ideally for the future the drilling of a bore hole offers the possibility of a long-term solution.
Working with the school, local community, KZN Department of Education, Eshowe Rotary Club and potential sponsors the Bambisanani Partnership is currently exploring the feasibility of drilling a bore hole on the school site to access clean water on demand. The tanks already purchased will help store the water from the bore hole.
Just imagine what a difference this would make if this became a reality.
Just imagine!
Also see related articles:
St. Mary’s School raise the bar with two remarkable visits to South Africa this year (14/11/2023)
Teacher runs, swims, cycles and rows his virtual way to Africa to raise funds for Special School (29/03/2024)
Newcastle College Team Triumphs in UK 3 Peaks Challenge, Raising £2,845 for The Bambisanani Partnership (21/05/2024)
Newcastle College shortlisted for ‘Excellence in International Work’ Award
An international project involving Newcastle College and the The Bambisanani Partnership has been named a finalist in the prestigious Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Awards 2024.
The collaboration, led by Enrichment and Development Manager, Brogan O'Connor, sees staff and students from Newcastle College volunteer in South Africa each year, to work with more than 1,000 children in schools and orphanages. In addition to this the college is also involved in ongoing projects in South Africa.
Shortlisted for ‘Excellence in International Work’, the project gives Newcastle College students the unique opportunity to work in rural South Africa, delivering sports and exercise sessions while volunteering to support other community projects.
The fundamental aim of the partnership is to create genuine ‘two-way’ learning between both countries, with sports used as a central learning tool to help the children develop skills and opportunities that will help promote education, health, global citizenship and leadership.
The visits are filled with heartfelt exchanges, cultural performances, and community engagement, giving students from Newcastle College the chance to develop skills in teamwork, leadership and communication, whilst boosting their confidence.
Project Leader and Bambisanani Partnership trustee, Brogan O'Connor said: “This is a real honour and a testament to the hard work of the staff and students who have travelled, supported, and worked so hard to make the educational visits possible.
“A fundamental aim of the partnership is to create genuine ‘two-way’ learning between young people from both countries, with a key focus on working and learning together. The Bambisanani story is testimony of the power of sport to change lives.
"I'm incredibly proud and grateful to be a part of the work Newcastle College and the partnership is doing in the UK and in South Africa and look forward to seeing what can be achieved in the years to come."
An AoC judging panel will visit the College in December to hear from staff and students about the fantastic work the partnership does, and the impact it has on the young people taking part, both in the UK and in South Africa.
Also see related articles:
Newcastle College lead on new Bambisanani shoe initiative changing lives in South Africa (02/12/2024)
Newcastle College students are outstanding members of the Bambisanani Partnership in South Africa (21/06/2024)
Newcastle College Team Triumphs in UK 3 Peaks Challenge, Raising £2,845 for The Bambisanani Partnership (21/05/2024)
Newcastle College lead on new Bambisanani shoe initiative changing lives in South Africa
It’s difficult to imagine life without a pair of shoes – sadly, that is the harsh reality for many children in remote, rural South Africa despite having to walk considerable distances to and from school each day.
It’s difficult to imagine life without a pair of shoes – sadly, that is the harsh reality for many children in remote, rural South Africa despite having to walk considerable distances to and from school each day.
Brogan O’Connor, Bambisanani Partnership coordinator at Newcastle College and trustee of the charity found that most of the children at Ngqamzana Primary School in KwaZulu Natal either did not have any shoes or had shoes that didn’t fit them properly. Discussions with the local community and Bambisanani supporters led to Brogan being introduced to the MyWalk charity in South Africa. MyWalk is an amazing South African organisation that turns single-use PVC drip bags, oxygen masks and associated tubing into brand new shoes. Remarkably the shoes are produced at the cost of £1.53 (R35) a pair. The school and local community identified a need for 716 pairs of school shoes and Brogan, together with great team support from Newcastle College raised the necessary funds to get all the children at the school a pair of shoes. There was great excitement at the school this week when the shoes arrived!
Mr Elijah Mhlanga, Chief Director of National and Provincial Communication in the Department of Basic Education in South Africa recently highlighted the importance of this issue:
“School shoes are a basic necessity, and if learners do not have adequate footwear, this can introduce ongoing obstacles to their education including bullying and harassment at school. Having school shoes can enhance the schooling experience for learners. Many learners unfortunately still walk long distances to and from school without shoes, facing a daily threat of sustaining cuts and infections.”
Mr L.F Msimango, Principal of Ngqamzana Primary School said, “I speak on behalf of the learners, educators, parents and community members and wish to thank Miss Brogan, Mr Barry and all the team from Newcastle College and the Bambisanani Partnership for the shoes that have arrived at my school. Your visits and programmes connect us with the wider world. We are proud to be members of the partnership. The shoes are so vital and we appreciate your humanity. I can assure you that the shoes will be very looked after. We are looking forward already to your next visit and interacting with your students.”
The Bambisanani Partnership Shoe initiative in partnership with MyWalk is not a ‘one off’ or isolated event for the charity at Ngqamzana Primary School. It forms part of much bigger holistic picture of the school being part of the partnership in ongoing programmes that promote education, sport, health, global citizenship and leadership. A special relationship has developed between the school and Newcastle College that is committed to working together and learning together.
Brogan O’Connor, added, “Having ‘worked hand in hand’ with Ngqamzana Primary School staff and learners for two years, it was clear to see how desperate it was that these learners received shoes to enable them to walk to school safely and comfortably to receive their education. Many learners had no school shoes at all and many were in Ill-fitting or unsuitable shoes. We are so thankful to have been introduced to the amazing team at MyWalk and to see all 716 pairs of shoes arrive safely at Ngqamzana Primary School. It’s hard to put into words what a significant impact this will have on the learners, staff and wider community. This partnership wouldn’t have been possible without our friends and partners in South Africa as well as the strength of the Newcastle College team who competed the gruelling UK 3 Peaks Challenge to raise the necessary funding for this project. I’m looking forward to returning to Ngqamzana in May to expand our programme there and of course to seeing the school shoes in action.”
David Geldart, Founder and CEO of the Bambisanani Partnership said: “Newcastle College is a key and dynamic member of the partnership, their pioneering work in very challenging circumstances is having a real and positive impact on the young people that it brings together from South Africa and Newcastle. Brogan’s leadership is exceptional and her students are also developing as outstanding young leaders themselves who want to continue to make a difference in the world, The Shoe initiative has brought us together with new friends from the MyWalk charity. Our work is very much about creating mutually beneficial partnerships and this one is really special; there is considerable synergy. Our focus on the UN Global Sustainably Goals is greatly reinforced and enhanced by working with them. The MyWalk partnership is sensitive and sympathetic to the environment by contributing to reducing healthcare waste to landfill and associated greenhouse gas emissions that are harmful to the environment. They are a fantastic example of embracing a circular economy and making it a reality. They show how a green solution can fulfil a material need for business while simultaneously benefiting society – in this case by supporting education, job creation and enterprise development. We look forward to ongoing collaborations with them and others in order to make the world a kinder, more equitable and sustainable place. It is our experience that collaborative international encounters significantly amplify this motivation and promote genuine global citizenship.”
Also see related articles:
Bambisanani Partnership recognised for contribution to UN Sustainable Development Goals (20/11/2024)
Newcastle College students are outstanding members of the Bambisanani Partnership in South Africa (21/06/2024)
Newcastle College Team Triumphs in UK 3 Peaks Challenge, Raising £2,845 for The Bambisanani Partnership (21/05/2024)
Bambisanani Partnership recognised for contribution to UN Sustainable Development Goals
Yet again the Bambisanani Partnership charity has been recognised for its commitment and contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals 3, 4, 5, 6, 10 and 17 namely Good Health and Wellbeing, Quality Education, Gender Equality, Clean Water and Sanitation, Reduced Inequalities and Partnerships for the Goals through its inspirational work in South Africa.
David Geldart from the partnership said, "Our contribution towards each of these interrelated goals may be small in the scale of things but they are nonetheless important and very significant. This is how individuals and organisations must start - in a small but purposeful way - it doesn't matter how small the action is, it will make a difference and it will set an example especially to young people. Organisations like ours that work with young people have a responsibility to highlight the UN Sustainable Development Goals and encourage positive actions and behaviours. Every day presents us with a with a myriad of opportunities to make a real difference and a chance to live more authentic and meaningful lives. The UN Sustainable Development Goals provide a wonderful focus for educators and learners. Our experience is that young people in both South Africa and the UK are concerned about the future but are extremely keen indeed to make the world a kinder, more equitable and sustainable place. It is also our experience that collaborative international encounters significantly amplify this motivation and promote genuine global citizenship."
“Do your little bit of good where you are; its those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”
The Bambisanani Partnership is a founding member of Sport and Sustainability International.
See related articles:
St.Mary’s student has article published about her volunteering experience in South Africa
Eleanor in South Africa, 2023
Former St. Mary’s student Eleanor Rock, now studying at Loughborough University, has had an article published in the Association of Physical Education’s prestigious journal Physical Education Matters. Eleanor is a previous winner of the Sbonelo Magwaza Award which recognised her outstanding leadership and volunteering in South Africa.
Link to read the article:
A Day in the Life of Eleanor Rock Physical Education Matters Autumn 2024 (PDF)
Also see related articles:
St. Mary’s School raise the bar with two remarkable visits to South Africa this year (14/11/2023)
Eleanor wins Bambisanani Leadership Award in memory of Sibonelo Magwaza (23/05/2024
A new adventure — volunteering abroad as a mature student
Reflections on my time volunteering in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa as part of the University’s ‘Gryphons Abroad’ project in August 2024.
By Tracy Campbell
Reflections on my time volunteering in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa as part of the University’s ‘Gryphons Abroad’ project in August 2024.
By Tracy Campbell
Building meaningful connections
Tracy embraces this new adventure.
As I reflect on my time volunteering in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa this summer, the depth of the relationships I built during this experience is hard to convey. Beyond the initial excitement and challenges of venturing into an unfamiliar environment, the true heart of my journey lay in the connections I formed with the children, fellow students, KZN cycle coaches and the teachers and school principals we worked alongside. Every interaction, whether through cycle clinics, classroom sessions or insightful casual conversations, became a source of inspiration and personal growth.
A special bond: Mrs Pk Zondi and the Bambisanani Partnership
Mrs Pk Zondi at the KZN Schools Cycling Competition.
One relationship that stands out is my bond with Mrs. Pk Zondi, the Bambisanani Partnership Coordinator at Mnyakanya School. The Bambisanani Partnership, a charity linked to over 40 schools and universities in both the UK and South Africa (including the University of Leeds), aims to use sport as a tool to promote education, health, global citizenship and leadership. Mrs. Zondi’s passion for education and her unwavering dedication to her students was inspiring, and her leadership went far beyond the classroom.
Our conversations often focused on the challenges her students face and her dreams for their future. It was particularly exciting to learn that Mrs. Zondi is planning a visit to Leeds with two of her students! I’m eager to welcome them to my hometown and show them the cultural richness and diversity that Leeds has to offer. This exchange will not only deepen our cross-cultural connection but also give me a chance to return the warmth and hospitality we received in KwaZulu-Natal.
Global perspectives: connecting students to real-world issues
Volunteering in South Africa was more than just a practical experience — it was a deeply educational one which brought global issues like poverty, gender inequality and social mobility into sharp focus. Looking back, I realise how well the modules I’ve studied as part of my Professional Studies degree with the Lifelong Learning Centre — particularly ‘Global Perspectives’, ‘Exploring Diversity’ and ‘Employability in a Changing World’ — prepared me for this experience.
“One of the best weeks ever”
The academic frameworks provided by these modules challenged me to critically examine ethical and cultural diversity and what it means to be a global citizen. For example, the leadership styles discussed in the ‘Employability in a Changing World’ module — clear communication, adaptability and the ability to engage with different learning styles — were particularly relevant to my work with children in South Africa. Hearing one student say that it was the “one of the best weeks ever” was immensely rewarding and reaffirmed my belief in the power of education and leadership to create lasting change. I carried the lessons from these modules into every aspect of the project — whether teaching, coaching or collaborating with teachers and volunteers.
Empowering girls: breaking barriers through cycling
Female students breaking through cultural barriers.
One of the most memorable aspects of the project was the cycle clinics. In Zulu culture it’s uncommon for girls to ride bicycles, so teaching them to cycle was not only a physical challenge but also a cultural one. Watching their confidence grow as they mastered the skill of cycling was deeply gratifying. But this was more than just learning to ride a bike — it was about empowerment, independence and breaking through cultural barriers.
Through these cycle clinics we also had meaningful discussions about gender equality, women’s rights and the societal norms the girls face in their communities. Their excitement and newfound sense of freedom through cycling were infectious, serving as a reminder of how sport can transcend cultural differences and foster social change.
Empowerment and building trust at Mnyakanya High School.
Building trust: the foundation for learning and growth
University of Leeds Gryphons Abroad 2024!
Building relationships with the children was vital to the success of the cycle clinics and leadership activities. Establishing trust and creating a supportive environment allowed the children to feel safe, engaged and motivated to learn. Their growing confidence, whether in cycling or during leadership exercises, and their sense of accomplishment was one of the most rewarding parts of the trip. The positive feedback they shared reaffirmed the importance of trust and strong relationships in any educational setting.
As a mature student, this experience also came with its own set of personal challenges. Living in a new environment, far from my family, wasn’t easy. Adjusting to a group dynamic where most students were in their early twenties required adaptability, resilience and an open mind. However, I soon realised that our differences in age and life experience enriched the journey for all of us. We each brought unique perspectives and strengths, and this diversity helped us grow together, fostering a deeper sense of collaboration and understanding.
A journey of personal growth: overcoming fears and finding confidence
Through this journey I’ve learned so much — not just about the world, but about myself. Overcoming my initial fears, from wondering if I’d fit in with younger students to navigating the logistics of leaving my family behind, has given me a renewed sense of confidence. This experience has reaffirmed that it’s never too late to pursue a long-held dream. The rewards of stepping outside of our comfort zones are often far greater than we can imagine, and I’m proud to have taken this leap.
Welcoming the future: a cross-cultural exchange in Leeds
As I prepare to welcome Mrs. Zondi and her students to Leeds, I’m reminded once again of the profound impact of cross-cultural exchange. The warmth and generosity we received in South Africa has inspired me to ensure that their visit here is just as meaningful. I look forward to showing them the diverse communities of Leeds, introducing them to new perspectives and continuing our journey of mutual learning.
Lessons learned: embracing global citizenship
This adventure has taught me that — regardless of age, background or personal circumstances — we all have something valuable to contribute as global citizens. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this project, and I’m excited to continue exploring what it means to be part of a global community. Each experience, each connection, adds richness to our shared human story — and I look forward to seeing where this journey will take me next.
Volunteering abroad as a mature student has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It’s reaffirmed my belief in the power of education, the importance of cross-cultural understanding, and the limitless possibilities that arise when we step out of our comfort zones and embrace the world with an open mind and an open heart.
Tracy also wrote about how she found the process of applying to and being accepted onto the ‘Gryphons Abroad’ scheme and the preparations for her trip to KwaZulu-Natal earlier this year — you can read that piece here.
Also see related articles:
Jordan Sinnott Awards Inspire in South Africa
Former St. Mary’s Menston student and professional footballer Jordan Sinnott was a great supporter of the Bambisanani Partnership charity which uses the power to change lives in some of the poorest rural communities in South Africa. Following his tragic death in 2020 three annual awards were established in his memory at Vumanhlamvu Primary School in the Nkandla region of KwaZulu-Natal. The awards recognise the Sportswomen of the Year, Sportsman of the Year and Sports Leader at the school.
Former St. Mary’s Menston student and professional footballer Jordan Sinnott was a great supporter of the Bambisanani Partnership charity which uses the power to change lives in some of the poorest rural communities in South Africa. Following his tragic death in 2020 three annual awards were established in his memory at Vumanhlamvu Primary School in the Nkandla region of KwaZulu-Natal. The awards recognise the Sportswomen of the Year, Sportsman of the Year and Sports Leader at the school.
At a special presentation event at the school there was great anticipation much excitement as the three award winners were announced:
Mnelisi Ntanzi Sportswoman of the Year
Andile Kunene Sportsman of the Year
Lunwabo Masondo Sports Leader of the Year
Award winners pictured with Mr Sibisi Lucky the Sports Organiser at Vumanhlamvu School
Mnelisi Ntanzi Sportswoman of the Year
“l feel very much happy to be a winner of this beautiful award that remembers Jordan at our school. This encourages me to continue with netball even next year at high school. I practiced and exercised at home very much in order to improve. I scored 32 goals this year in netball matches. Thank you, a lot, to the Sinnott family and the Bambisanani Partnership as these awards encourage us to showcase our talent.”
Andile Kunene Sportsman of the Year
“'It is a dream come true to win the Jordan Sinnott Award in 2024. I am very happy and my dream is to be a professional soccer player one day. I always go an extra mile when given a task in sports – this encourages me to do the same in my school work. Thanks to the Jordan Sinnott family and to Bambisanani for giving us this opportunity.”
Lunwabo Masondo Sports Leader of the Year
“I have never won any award in my whole life. The Jordan Sinnott award is the first thing that l won and it is a famous award at our school. I worked very hard all the time and this special award motivates me to be a good leader. Thank you Bambisanani and Sinnott family for remembering us.”
Mr William Vilakazi, Principal of the school added, “It is difficult to express how important these awards are to our school. They are a focal point for our learners and inspire them to be the best that they can be. We remember Jordan at this time and his Mum, Melanie who sadly passed away last year. The Sinnott family and his friends must be strengthened in the knowledge that Jordan is continuing to inspire learners in this remote rural part of South Africa. This is the power of sport which we know was very important to Jordan.”
Bambisanani Partnership Supporters Tharavadu named one of the UK’s best Indian restaurants by the 2024 British Indian Good Food Guide
Congratulations to Tharavadu
Full Story:
Tharavadu named one of the UK’s best Indian restaurants by the 2024 British Indian Good Food Guide [THE HOOT LEEDS]
Related:
Tharavadu Fundraising Event is a Great Success (13/05/2023)
Bambisanani Charity Dinner at Tharavadu is a great success (13/07/2024)
A Warm Yorkshire Welcome for South Africans
South African teachers, Mrs Pk Zondi and Miss Mazet Langa from Mnyakanya High School and Mrs Eunice Mchunu from Umlazi Primary School together with students Amahle Nsbande and Bayanda Gcaba from Mnyakanya recently visited Leeds as part of the Bambisanani Partnership exchange programme. Mnyakanya School established the partnership with St. Mary’s, Menston 18 years ago. The visit was coordinated by Mrs Pk Zondi and Catherine Chattoe from St. Mary’s supported by Charlotte Wood, Barbara Pounder, David Farmer, Margaret Hattersley, Gerry Sayers, Brogan O’Connor and David Geldart.
South African teachers, Mrs Pk Zondi and Miss Mazet Langa from Mnyakanya High School and Mrs Eunice Mchunu from Umlazi Primary School together with students Amahle Nsbande and Bayanda Gcaba from Mnyakanya recently visited Leeds as part of the Bambisanani Partnership exchange programme. Mnyakanya School established the partnership with St. Mary’s, Menston 18 years ago. The visit was coordinated by Mrs Pk Zondi and Catherine Chattoe from St. Mary’s supported by Charlotte Wood, Barbara Pounder, David Farmer, Margaret Hattersley, Gerry Sayers, Brogan O’Connor and David Geldart.
During the one week stay the visitors participated in lessons at St. Mary’s, Menston and St. Joseph’s Primary School, Pudsey. They also toured the sights of Leeds and York as well as visiting Saltaire Village with local historian Andy Harrison-Beaumont and the Brontë Parsonage in Howarth with the benefit of expert, Diane Fare. The team also spent a day at key member of the Bambisanani Partnership, the University of Leeds, where they enjoyed the extensive facilities. The group were joined by many St. Marys students who have visited South Africa or will be visiting next year for an evening of Bowling and later in the week a bracing walk on Rombald’s Moor to the ‘Twelve Apostle Stones’. When visiting the Leeds Playhouse as special guests to watch A Raisin in the Sun, the visitors were stunned with an invitation from Emma Gill to have a backstage tour and meet several of the actors. As well as attending a service at York Minster the group were special guests at the annual St. Mary’s Mass of Welcome for new Year 7 students at St, Peter’s and Paul’s Church in Yeadon which happened to fall on Zulu Heritage Day. Whilst at St. Mary’s, the South African students taught Zulu to Year 7 students on International Language Day. Amahle and Bayanda also taught Zulu language at St. Josephs as well as Athletics. Over 40 members of the Bambisanani team in the UK attended a celebration meal with the South African guests at Tharavadu Restaurant in Leeds, a restaurant that has supported the partnership for several years. On the final day of the visit the visitors added much to St. Mary’s Open Day and were able to meet Graham Davies and Janet Kerr of the Rotary Club of Aireborough who have supported the partnership since it began. At a final lunch event the guests had the opportunity to meet 8-year-old Althaea Dickinson, who earlier in the year had organised a campaign to get over 1,000 reading books into South African primary schools and Graeme Collin who has been instrumental in providing kit for the Bambisanani Cycling programme in South Africa. It certainly was a very busy and exciting week which created many wonderful encounters.
Suzzi Garnet from the University of Leeds said, “Leeds Sport was delighted and honoured to host staff and pupils from Mnyakanya High School at the University of Leeds for the first time. Our visitors had lots of fun trying out various pieces of equipment in the Edge gym, followed by a raucous session on our climbing wall, experiencing both bouldering and rope climbing. A special lunch reception was followed by a tour of various prominent buildings on campus including the Brotherton Library, a lecture theatre and the Great Hall. It was particularly special that one of the pupils, 14-year-old Bayanda showed University staff and students around Mnyakanya back in 2023 and we got to return the favour last week!
15-year-old Bayanda and 17-year-old Amahle said that they were overwhelmed with joy when their dream to visit UK came true and that all their friends were surprised when their departure date was announced by the Principal at a school assembly.
An extremely enthusiastic Bayanda Gcaba commented: “I’m so excited that this visit to the UK was successful. When we started preparing for it by asking for donations and selling some snacks at school to raise money, many people did not believe that the trip could really be possible. Some people doubted us so our travels have surprised many people. I just cannot explain how much I enjoyed every single thing about this very wonderful visit. We learned so many things about how people in the UK behave and how young people achieve their goals. I especially loved visiting the theatre for the very first time to see the drama called ‘A Raisin in the Sun’. I also very much enjoyed learning about Titus Salt and how he cared for his workers and about Emily, Charlotte and Anne Bronté who were strong women and great writers. The university experience was amazing and I would like to study there one day. We learned so much all week and had great fun meeting so many kind and respectful people. All this wonderful experience wouldn’t have happened without the effort and support of Mrs Pk Zondi, our Bambisanani Partnership coordinator at school who helped to communicate with our relatives and community for assistance. I would also like to pass my thanks to all my family especially my grandmother Mashandu Gcaba and my father Siyabonga Gcaba who all encouraged me to take this trip. In conclusion, I wish to send my words of appreciation to all the Bambisanani UK team for their massive support and hospitality when we were there. It was a dream come true for me, I experienced so much and learned so much. I am inspired further and have many ambitions for the future.”
Amahle Nsibande still cannot quite believe her amazing adventure as she commented: “I just joined Mnyakanya High School last year in 2023. I was attracted by the Bambisanani Partnership even before I joined the school. Today I’m so excited to know that I received this opportunity to visit the UK as part of the partnership. We visited several schools and University of Leeds, sharing experiences and learning about each other’s cultures through sports and educational activities. I was so excited to meet new friends, participate in different events and visit different parts of Yorkshire. This trip broadened my horizons of thinking and left me inspired by the spirit of collaboration and mutual respect. I wish to thank all the UK Bambisanani team for all the love they showed to us. We don’t hesitate to say that every member of the team was willing to do so much for us with open hearts.”
Bayanda’s father and Amahle’s mother said that the travelling of their children to the United Kingdom gives them hope that there is still more to come for their children. Bayanda’s father said:
“My son’s experience to visit abroad has made all the Gcaba family to be proud of him. We believe that this is an indication that he will have a brighter future. I wish to thank all Mnyakanya teachers who enabled this to happen. It is my wish that he continues to travel to different places, so that he will learn from the young people of other countries. I also hope that the Bambisanani Partnership will continue to develop our children for a better future.”
Miss Zanele Langa, a teacher at Mnyakanya High School said: “It was indeed a great pleasure to visit our friends in the UK. We share many great memories and created many more,. This was another fantastic opportunity for young people of both countries to ‘work together and learn together’ as is the aim of the Bambisanani Partnership. Our young people had the opportunity to attend lessons but also to teach lessons and coach sport. We learnt many new things about history and culture in Leeds York, Saltaire and Howarth. Learning about Titus Salt and the Brontë sisters was inspirational as was the visit to Leeds Playhouse. Interacting with students, teachers and families made us feel welcomed. Visiting the University of Leeds was a great experience for both learners and teachers. Touring different places helped us learn more about the life in UK. The genuinely warm welcome that was given to us absolutely everywhere in Yorkshire was truly amazing.; we were treated like VIP’s! We felt as if we were at home, and even now we are convinced that we have our second home in the UK; the true spirit of Ubuntu surrounded us. Words cannot express how much we appreciate all that our UK friends did for us. We hope and pray that this partnership will grow even stronger and reach to different generations.”
Mrs Pk Zondi, the Bambisanani Partnership coordinator at Mnyakanya said, “It is still difficult to convince my mind that the visit to the UK took place and was so successful, since it had been our dream for many years. The Mnyakanya visit to the UK has drawn the attention of many people to the partnership between UK schools and Mnyakanya High school. Many teachers and learners who have recently joined Mnyakanya High School have developed strong interest in the Bambisanani Partnership because of this visit. The families of the students who were part of the visit are extremely proud about the experience gained by their children. We believe that the life of these two students will change for better, and their way of thinking will never be like before. I do not have enough words to appreciate all the UK Bambisanani team for the love they showed to us, for orientating us with almost all parts of their life, places and cultures. The hospitality we received was AMAZING! The visit has taught us so much about the people, the culture and life in UK. There is something very special about the Bambisanani Partnership, not least its ability to bring people together, broaden perspectives and change lives for the better. It creates friendships and understanding of other people.”
Member of the Bambisanani team, Gerry Sayers said “It was my great pleasure to help to transport our friends from Mnyakanya School during their stay. We had such a good time chatting on the journeys to the various events which had been organised for them. I was able to catch up with Pk and Mazet who I had not seen since 2007 when I visited Mnyakanya. I also acted as a tour guide describing the geography of Leeds in which all were very interested. What a great time we had together learning from each other, enjoying each other’s company and making very special memories.”
The Mnyakanya High School Principal, Mr Siyabonga Ngubane, forwarded words of praise and gratitude to students Bayanda Gcaba and Nsibande Amahle who worked very hard to raise funds for themselves to visit United Kingdom to represent their school and their country. He further mentioned that this visit will strengthen the Bambisanani Partnership even more. He said: “It was so exciting to see our learners in posted videos, enjoying themselves participating in classroom, sports, cultural and social activities. I wish to thank all the Bambisanani team in UK for taking such good care of our students and teachers while they were there.”
Pricillia Guliwe from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education praised all involved in the visit for their vision and determination to make it happen and said that it is her dream that more schools in the remote rural areas had the opportunity to visit the UK.
David Geldart, Founder and CEO of the partnership said, “Huge thanks to Catherine and the team for going well beyond the extra mile in organising a wonderfully varied, action packed week for our guests. Enormous credit must go to Pk and Mazet who despite considerable challenges, worked tirelessly in South Africa to make the visit possible. Special thanks to many of our sponsors and supporters who stepped in at late notice to make this a fantastic experience for all involved. The wonderful hospitality and kindness were typified by Bambisanani Trustee, Barbara Pounder, who provided her house to accommodate our guests. Pk, Mazet, Eunice, Amahle and Bayanda were outstanding ambassadors for their country and we learned much from them during the course of their stay. Such educational exchanges, based on mutual respect and learning, have the potential to broaden horizons, change world views and promote genuine global citizenship. Long may this continue in Bambisanani visits to and from South Africa.”
University of Leeds volunteers use the power of sport to excel in South Africa
A team of seven students and three staff from the University of Leeds and Leeds University Union have returned from a life changing visit to South Africa to deliver Gryphons Abroad 2024, our ongoing cycling and sport development project. Our programme sees volunteers deployed for a period of four weeks in rural Kwa-Zulu Natal to teach cycling, leadership and sport in hard-to-reach communities. Members of staff Lauren Havercroft, Fenella Walsh and Matty Walsh were joined by students Euan Taylor, Tracy Campbell, Madhiya Hussain, Maria Roxo-Marques, Harvey Renshaw, Freddie Ankers and Will Rawlings.
Through partnership work with KZN Cycling, the KZN Department of Education and Menston based charity, the Bambisanani Partnership, our student team supported the ongoing activation of a regional cycling hub in the Nkandla area. The cycling hub is basically a shipping container which houses a collection of bikes and a trailer which subsequently tours local schools teaching and coaching cycling. Alongside KZN Development Coach, Sonqoba Ndlovu our students delivered 15 cycling clinics and a cycling festival for talented riders in August 2024. The spectrum of learners involved in the programme included complete novices, improvers and competent riders. The team were particularly keen to teach cycling to young women and girls, who would not traditionally learn this skill in Zulu culture. Riders also received cycling jerseys and water bottles, plus helmets in the hub were restocked thanks to the kind support of Chevin Cycles and Otley Cycling Club.
One week of the project also sees students deliver a sport and leadership week for grade seven pupils from three primary schools in the township of Eshowe. Pupils participate in sport, leadership activities and classroom sessions culminating in them being challenged to lead their own game or activity for their peer group at the end of the week.
Tracy Campbell, University of Leeds Professional Studies student commented;
“A particularly moving aspect of the project was the cycle clinics. In Zulu culture, it is uncommon for girls to ride bicycles, so this initiative was culturally sensitive. The girls’ excitement and newfound empowerment through cycling were deeply fulfilling. The ability to bridge cultural gaps and foster dialogue about women’s rights was a significant learning experience for me emphasising the power of sport as a tool for social change.”
Across the region our students and staff also participated in a range of cultural experiences, being welcomed by singing and dancing in every school, as well as observing a charity music event and workshops on Women’s Day which is a public holiday in South Africa.
Vision ‘To use sport & education to inspire, engage and develop young people and communities in both Leeds and South Africa’
Across the four weeks the team engaged with 12 partner organisations in the UK and South Africa, mobilising 1,387 participations in sport and cycling. Parallel to the impact on pupils in Kwa-Zulu Natal, our student team created memories and friendships to last a lifetime as well as developing transferable graduate level skills. The student volunteers participated in a full programme of training, fundraising and mentoring in the eight months leading up to the visit which included a Level 2 coaching qualification, first aid training, bike maintenance training, teaching skills and more. The staff team provided 486 hours of training and support for our students to prepare them for the role.
Teachers and students in South Africa were positive about all aspects of the programme:
“I think there will be a great impact – you can see the pupils are excited to be on a bike and trying some new sports which are less familiar to them. This is the first of its kind at our school. We wish our pupils to be able to enter competitions. We would be excited to welcome KZN Cycling and University of Leeds volunteers back again.”
“The sports leadership festival is informative, inspiring and interactive. The involvement learners have in the activities enhanced their confidence levels. It had a positive impact on our pupils and helped them develop their skills. Next year it would be great to invite more schools”
“I enjoy the cycling – I was scared but now I can do it. We have new friends, and we are enjoying it very much”
“This has been the best week of my life. I’ve learnt so much about being a leader in these sessions”
University of Leeds Sport Science student Freddie Ankers added;
“I learnt a lot about myself. I can do things and I definitely do want to teach. It has really helped shape me as a person – I am leaving Leeds now and what a way to finish.”
Key Objectives and Principles
David Geldart CEO of the partnership praised the work of all involved, “Huge congratulations to the team from the University of Leeds who yet again have raised the bar in terms of volunteering in South Africa. The students have been exemplary ambassadors for the university using the power of sport and education to change lives in one of the most challenging parts of the country. The learning that ensues for students from both country’s is most powerful indeed. Such global encounters broaden horizons and create more expansive world views. The University of Leeds has made an outstanding contribution to the Bambisanani Partnership for more than ten years, leading on a variety of programmes. The university team deserve great credit for their commitment, dedication and vision which, year on year, provides the most wonderful opportunities for its students in South Africa. My special thanks must go to Andy Lockwood and Suzzi Garnett at the university for making all this possible.”
Key Facts
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