It’s been a big year for Yandisa!

Changing schools, political unrest resulting in looting and food shortages but a whole lot of fun and spoils in between!

‘Hi Matt and Al, my favourite subject is maths and my favourite food is mushrooms’

This is one of the voice notes we received from Yandisa in the early stages of the year. Having heard this, Matt reached out to a local mushroom farm to deliver he favourite food to her and her family, as well as the wider community!

Looting in KZN

During July 2021, Civil unrest occurred in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces. Public violence, burglary, and malicious damage to property were reported in parts of KwaZulu-Natal estimated at R20 billion (approx. £1 billion) worth of damages to KwaZulu-Natal’s economy alone. The disruption to supply chain and outlet operations resulted in dire food shortages across the province, particularly in rural communities where families do not have the financial or physical means to store food.

Through our relationship with Spar, we were able to deliver essential care packages to Yandisa’s family and the Malacca Informal Settlement. Seeing them through a very difficult and terrifying time in their country.

Academic Year

Yandisa saw a big change during 2021. Due to her impressive academic performance, she was flagged to move up to a higher model school with improved academic facilities and faculty members, offering extramural and sporting activities.

While she found the change difficult at the start, Yandisa continued to exhibit determination at her new school, North Crest Primary.

The hard work paid off because Yandisa received a merit award at prize giving for English, one of her favourite subjects.

This is an exhibit of her ability to thrive despite a year of turbulence. Keep at it Yandisa! The sky is the limit.

Festive Season Fun

Upon visiting SA during the Christmas 2021 break, Matt and Al had the opportunity treat Yandisa, her sister and her best friend, to a beach day with lunch, ice cream and a trip to the arcade to top it off!