As the country celebrated National Literacy Week, a few local businesses decided to make a tangible difference in the lives of children who do not have access to books.
Members of the Assegai Chapter of BNI (Business Network International) joined forces with Gcina Mohlope, the founder of Nozincwadi or “Mother of Books” Foundation (pictured left with Gideon Moneneki), to bless Enyosini Primary School with a beautiful library!
Work started in the early hours and all team players painted and scrapped away as the children sang, waiting excitedly to see the first library they have ever had. Enyosini Primary was founded in 1972 and the current principal Mrs Ngcobo was thrilled with her lovely new library, inviting fellow principals from the surrounding area to join in on the day of celebration.
“We waited until 1998 for electricity and there was great rejoicing at that,” said a delighted Mrs Ngcobo. “Now we have a library too, we are so grateful and happy to give this gift to the children!”
Story continues below…
Author, Playwright and Director, Gcina Mohlope founded Nozincwadi from a deep passion for educating children through reading, and together with a team of like-minded business people, has been able to make her vision a reality at Enyosini Primary – with the promise of more schools to follow.
The working team included Gary Smith (Safe Gas), Paul Stanley (APE Plumbing and Electrical), Jenny Gevers (Plush Pad Interiors), Vanessa Cook (Suburban Spaces Realty), Gideon Moneneki, Johan Schroder (Hirsch’s Springfield) and Sarah Poulsom (Hirsch’s Hillcrest).
This project would not have been possible without the sponsors behind the scenes who donated materials and funds. Sincerest appreciation goes to Tracy and Freddie de Kock (Hendok Fencing), Brett Wyere (Build-It Bothas Hill) and the Zarrebini family (Van Dyk Carpets) for their contributions.
In just eight hours, the team and their sponsors turned a dark, empty room into a bright and welcoming library – the gateway to a better future for all of our children.