NEWS
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!
Lilly completes the Leeds Marathon for the Bambisanani Partnership
Congratulations and many thanks to Lilly Chattoe who recently ran the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon raising much needed funds for the charity.
Congratulations and many thanks to Lilly Chattoe who recently ran the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon raising much needed funds for the charity.
It was her first ever Marathon and she finished the 26.2 mile course in a 4 hours 12 minutes and raised a remarkable £450 for the partnership in doing so. This is a great achievement on both counts and Lilly deserves great praise for her efforts. Lilly is very closely associated with the partnership, her Dad, Richard, played a significant in role in developing the partnership when he worked at St. Mary’s, School and her Mum, Catherine, is the current Bambisanani Partnership Co-ordinator at the school.
Newcastle College Team Triumphs in UK 3 Peaks Challenge, Raising £2,845 for The Bambisanani Partnership
A dedicated team of nine staff members, supported by two drivers, from Newcastle College have successfully completed the formidable UK 3 Peaks Challenge in an impressive 23 hours and 53 minutes.
A dedicated team of nine staff members, supported by two drivers, from Newcastle College have successfully completed the formidable UK 3 Peaks Challenge in an impressive 23 hours and 53 minutes.
The team conquered the highest peaks of Scotland, England, and Wales, raising £2,845 for the Bambisanani Partnership in the process. The Challenge includes 23 miles of walking/climbing, 3,064 metres of accent and 462 miles of driving between countries. The triumphant team included walkers: Brogan OConnor, Barry Rizza, Paul Whitfield, Joe Adams, Jack Redpath, Alan Fenton, Catherine Orridge, Jonathan Rees and Maria Gibson and drivers: Neil Anderson and Terry Aisbitt.
The funds will contribute significantly to the MyWalk campaign, an initiative providing school shoes for children in rural South Africa who currently walk barefoot. The shoes, crafted from recycled hospital waste, cost less than £2 per pair. Half the money raised will equip an entire primary school of 700 children with shoes, while the remaining funds will support other Bambisanani activities across schools and communities in rural South Africa.
Brogan O'Connor, Enrichment and Development Manager at the college and trustee of the Bambisanani Partnership, expressed her pride in the team's achievement, stating, "It is an honour to come together as a college annually and raise funds for a charity that has been a huge part of my life since the age of 16, and does amazing work in the UK and in South Africa. Whilst they are challenging, our annual fundraisers are a key part of our academic calendar now and something I, and many of us, really look forward to. We are already planning next year’s! To have hit our target and raised so much money makes all the effort worth it and a huge thank-you must go to the staff and students across the Newcastle College network who supported with donations, messages of support, and shares on social media."
The challenge, which included scaling Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon, was not only physically and mentally demanding but also conducted under the constraints of a minibus limited to 60 miles per hour, with minimal sleep and fuel stops. Despite these hurdles, the team's cohesion and determination saw them complete the challenge with just seven minutes to spare.
“Walking the Walk”
David Geldart from the partnership added, “Brogan and her team deserve the utmost credit on successfully completing this world-renowned endurance challenge on behalf of the Bambisanani Partnership. Newcastle College is a key member of the partnership and has added new dimensions to both our work in South Africa and to our fundraising. The college has developed a great link with the wonderful MyWalk initiative and students from the college will be volunteering in South Africa next month. It is fantastic to see institutions provide genuine global learning opportunities for their students; it’s always about walking the walk. Well done to Brogan and her team for outstanding leadership on all fronts.”
The Bambisanani Partnership, renowned for its work in promoting education and development through sport in South Africa, will utilize the raised funds to make a tangible difference in the lives of countless children, enhancing their educational experience and overall well-being.
Tharavadu Fundraising Event is a Great Success
Good food, good friends = good times
Good food, good friends = good times
The second annual Bambisanani Charity Lunch, held at the award winning Tharavadu Restaurant in Leeds, was a tremendous success. The completely sold-out event was organised by Charlotte Wood, David Farmer, Barbara Pounder and Catherine Chattoe and was attended by 80 Bambisanani supporters and young people who will be volunteering in South Africa this summer.
Tharavadu is Michelin recommended and serves the most wonderful Kerala food. Named in a list of Top 100 UK Restaurants it is a particular favourite of Indian cricket captain, Virat Kholi. The owner of the restaurant Mr Sibi Jose, provided all the food and drinks at no cost whatsoever to the charity. The friendly atmosphere, wonderful service and exceptional cuisine were enjoyed by all.
A raffle and auction included some outstanding items provided by The Kaiser Chiefs; Power Gym, Guiseley; Wild Camping Vans, Wakefield; The Edge, University of Leeds; Cloud Nine, Yorkshire County Cricket Club, Joan Wilkinson and Gerry Sayers.
A signed album from the Kaiser Chiefs was auctioned during the event
The event raised a remarkable £3,905 which will go towards funding key sports and education projects in what is one of the most challenging areas of rural South Africa. Somewhat uniquely, the Bambisanani Partnership has no employees or premise so all money raised goes to support front line projects.
David Geldart, Founder and CEO of the charity said. “On every level this event was a great success. So much goes into the organisation; I have nothing but praise for all those involved. The kindness and generosity of Sibi Jose and his wonderful Tharavadu team is quite remarkable. They have a real and genuine connection with our charity and nothing is too much trouble in ensuring that everyone has a great time in this outstanding restaurant. My special thanks to Charlotte, David, Barbara and Cath for making it all happen. Thanks also to all those who volunteered on the day, to those that donated raffle and auction items and of course to all those who bought a ticket to attend. There was a great atmosphere with lots of fun and camaraderie; good food and good friends does indeed equal good times. A good time was had by all and much needed funds were raised to ensure that our work in South Africa continues to make a difference.”
Education Excellence Award for Bambisanani teacher
Mazet Langa, a teacher from Mnyakanya High School, has recently been honoured for her outstanding work by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education. At a prestigious ceremony in Nkandla Mazet received a special award for her exceptional results in the mandatory curriculum area of Life Orientation where 100% of her final year students gained Distinctions.
Mazet Langa, a teacher from Mnyakanya High School, has recently been honoured for her outstanding work by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education. At a prestigious ceremony in Nkandla Mazet received a special award for her exceptional results in the mandatory curriculum area of Life Orientation where 100% of her final year students gained Distinctions.
Mazet was a key figure in developing the original collaborative work between Mnyakanya School and St. Mary’s, Menston which eventually led to the formation of the Bambisanani Partnership charity. For the past 18 years Mazet has worked tirelessly to develop the partnership in conjunction with her work teaching Life Orientation.
The curriculum area of Life Orientation aims to:
Guide learners to achieve their full physical, intellectual, emotional and social potential
Develop learners’ skills to respond to challenges and play an active part and responsible role in the economy and society
Teach learners to exercise their constitutional rights and responsibilities and to respect the rights of others
Guide learners to make informed and responsible decisions about their health, environment, subject choices, further studies and careers
Provide opportunities for learners to demonstrate an understanding of, and participation in activities that promote movement and physical activity.
Mazet in exchange visit to St.Mary’s, Menston.
This work compliments the work of the Bambisanani Partnership which aims to promote education, health, global citizenship and leadership through sport.
A delighted Mazet said, “Being recognised for your dedication and the support given to children is such an amazing experience. We must thank God for giving us the strength to do this even in difficult times and circumstances so that we can change the lives of children, especially in the rural areas. The work of the Bambisanani Partnership contributes massively to the education of young people at Mnyakanya.”
Mazet visiting Ilkley with students and colleagues
David Geldart, from the partnership added, “This is such a well-deserved honour for Mazet. Her dedication to her students and indeed to the partnership is immense. She is passionate about education and has been instrumental in developing the partnership which is impacting the lives of young people in both South Africa and the UK. I met her on my first ever visit to South Africa and I doubt if we would be where we are today without her vision, dedication and positivity”.
Also see related article:
Mnyakanya High School do it again! (07/02/2024)
Bambisanani supporters ‘March through March’ to raise funds
Supporters of the Bambisanani Partnership recently participated in a sponsored 100-mile walking event – Marching through March – in order to raise much needed funds for the charity.
Supporters of the Bambisanani Partnership recently participated in a sponsored 100-mile walking event – Marching through March – in order to raise much needed funds for the charity.
Jenni Tomes-Green
The event was organised by Bambisanani trustee, Barbara Pounder who said:
“Many congratulations to everyone who took part in the Bambisanani Challenge of walking 100 miles in March. Through wind, rain and shine and more rain! the walkers completed the challenge with a smile. So many different routes and some incredible scenery. The Yorkshire Dales, the streets of Guiseley, Menston, Bramhope, Horsforth, Otley and Yeadon Dam. Along the coast of Crosby in Liverpool, Bamburgh in Northumberland and amazingly also in Thailand, Barbados and Italy. A total of 1,300 miles were walked and just over £2,000 was raised. Using the power of sport to change lives, the Partnership is currently involved in five projects in South Africa and every penny raised from ‘Marching through March’ will go towards sustaining and developing them. Once again, many congratulations to all the walkers and a big thank you to everyone that sponsored them.”
Participants included Jenni Tomes-Green, Tracey Weaver, Katherine Sayers, Duncan Baines, Vincent Bulman, Catherine Chattoe, David Geldart, Christine Wallis, Richard Giles, Graham Chennells, Ali Roberts, Martin Waddington, Loris Stringhini and the Pounder family.
‘Marching through March’ will hopefully become an annual fundraiser for the Bambisanani Partnership charity. To register your interest for the 2025 event please contact Barbara Pounder: bmpounder@yahoo.co.uk
March was a wet and windy month!
Team effort from the Pounder family
Kate walks all day long in school from room to room and building to building