Jabulani Foundation
Jabulani Foundation is based in Zithulele Village in the Eastern Cape Province. It runs the Masiphakameni (“Let’s Rise”) programme for 8 young women at a time for 8 months. With an often poor secondary education and almost no job prospects, young adults in this area have extremely limited opportunities to escape the cycle of poverty. With a bleak outlook for the future, many begin to abuse alcohol and other drugs, commit petty crime, and even end up in jail.
Jabulani used to run a similar programme for young men, which E3 supported over a number of years, but that is now being run by another NGO. The programme for young women is something that the local community has been asking for and has been needed for some time. Both programmes are making such a difference in the lives of young men and women.
“I am grateful to my mentor and I have learned a lot from her. She has guided me on the right path and treated me like a daughter and showed me love. She comforted me when I was losing myself and gave me advice about life. I am so grateful for her time and effort in mentoring me.”
Ongezwa, Masiphakameni member in 2023
"I have learned to love and accept things that I can't change about myself. I used to hate my body, but now I know that I am unique and different for a reason. My relationship with God has transformed. I understand him better and still want to know him more. I have learned sewing and gardening skills and plan to have my own vegetable garden."
Sinesipho, Masiphakameni member in 2021
The ‘ubuntu (compassion) challenge’ asks the young women to do things for others. Ziyanda, constantly pushed the boundaries and amazed the team. Her first reports were about helping at home. She soon started buying food for friends, and later she reported offering accommodation to two people who had brought their relative to the local hospital but who were sleeping outside the hospital premises because they had nowhere to stay – she offered them a room at her home to spend the night.
Ziyanda, Masiphakameni member in 2021
E3’s partnership helps fund the programme, which includes:
Learning important values and life skills
Receiving support from positive role models
Developing a belief in themselves and their ability to create change in their own lives and their community
Physical education and personal development
Training in computers (International Computer Driving License), business skills and practical skills like sewing and farming. The girls sewed face masks to sell at cost in the local community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Grant from E3: £6,500
Vuyolwethu Ndakisa facilitates the girls’ programme.