The Kezlei Foundation (TKF) hopes to make a meaningful impact on disadvantaged communities through its Literacy and Reading Initiative, aimed at improving reading skills and fostering a love for books among young learners.

The group is hosting a fundraiser, Storytelling Sunset Dinner on Saturday 18 April, which aims to raise funds while promoting a culture of storytelling with all proceeds going towards their literacy programmes for impoverished learners on the Cape Flats.

They are focused primarily on areas such as Manenberg, Hanover Park, Nyanga, Gugulethu, Khayelitsha and surrounding Cape Flats communities.

The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between limited educational resources and quality learning opportunities.

The organisation was founded in 2015 by Chantal Leibrandt and born from the passion of three visionary mothers and community activists who identified a critical need for resources to support impoverished community members struggling to access education and learning opportunities.

Literacy initiative aims to uplift young learners

What started as small reading sessions and art workshops in local schools has grown into a comprehensive programme reaching 15+ schools and impacting more than 1 200 children.

At its core, the programme promotes a culture of reading.

“We promote a culture of reading and storytelling that inspires curiosity, creativity, and imagination,” Leibrandt pointed out.

“We build learners’ confidence and improve their future opportunities through our reading and arts creativity programmes.”

She said TKF hoped through volunteers from the communities it serves, to expand its programmes and workshops with more support.

“Creative arts play a big supporting role in the foundation’s activities by making learning more engaging, expressive and memorable. They help learners use drawing, painting, drama, storytelling, music and other creative activities to explore ideas, understand stories and express themselves.”

This approach not only strengthens reading comprehension but also encourages self-expression, and keeps learners motivated.

Leibrandt emphasised that creative arts are not separate from literacy work, but rather complement it.

Fundraiser to support reading and storytelling programmes

By making learning interactive and enjoyable, children are more likely to develop a lasting interest in reading while also building important skills such as critical thinking and communication.

The initiative plays a crucial role in communities where access to educational resources is often limited.

“The initiative is important for children with limited access to educational resources because it helps bridge the gap between disadvantaged learners and quality learning opportunities,” Leibrandt said.

“Many children in under-resourced communities may not have books at home, libraries nearby or extra support to develop strong reading skills.”

Improving literacy skills at an early age has far-reaching benefits, she added. Learners are better equipped to understand their schoolwork, perform more confidently in class and develop a positive attitude towards education.

The programme also nurtures creativity and personal growth, helping children to envision brighter futures despite challenging circumstances.

“It also encourages a love of reading and learning,” Leibrandt pointed out, “which can positively influence their long-term educational development.

In addition, the programme supports children’s creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills through reading and creative arts activities.

This helps them become more confident learners and gives them greater opportunities for personal growth and a brighter future, especially for those growing up in communities where educational resources are limited.”

Community support needed to expand impact

The Kezlei Foundation is now looking to expand its reach and is calling on the community for support. Volunteers are needed to assist with reading sessions, literacy workshops, creative arts activities and events.

Community members are also encouraged to donate books, art materials and educational supplies to sustain the programme.

The foundation also highlighted the need for storybook donations, noting that many children — and even some elderly community members — have never had the opportunity to read a book.

Through collaboration, volunteering and donations, the Kezlei Foundation believes it can extend its impact and reach more children in need.

For more information email Leibrandt at kezleiconsultingandprojects01@gmail.com.