To celebrate Mandela Day on Monday 18 July it was all hands on deck to refurbish the property at the Vulamathuba Empumelelo Learning Centre in Brooklyn.
“We planned a hands-on refurb of the property to ensure that it is ready for socio-economic development programmes, which are open to marginalised youth around Cape Town.” says Balisa Mancayi, spokesperson for Communicare.
Vulamathuba Empumelelo is the community and social development arm of Communicare. Its programmes focus on advancing education levels, developing work skills, supporting job seekers and providing them with life skills.
Mancayi adds that at the learning centre they encourage the tenants and their neighbours to be self-reliant and economically mobile.
Building a village
Vulamathuba manager Noma-Afrika Nkwenkwe-Maxwele, says Monday’s activities were a true reflection of how it takes a village to build sustainable communities that thrive.
She thanked everyone who, despite the cold, came out in scores to volunteer their time and help make the community learning centre conducive to learning and training. “We truly felt the spirit of Madiba.”
Members of the Air Force Base in Ysterplaat were invited to share Mandela Day with them, marking the start of a new relationship.
“The members of the Air Force helped with planting to beautify the area and with painting indoors. We look forward to working together for the benefit of the community as we are both stakeholders in the community,” Mancayi says.
Programmes
Programmes at the centre include a matric senior certificate programme, a skills development programme that includes short accredited courses and funding for training at TVET colleges, and a jobseekers programme for unemployed youth which is open to the public.
“We all know the importance of education,” says Mancayi.
“We have a programme for matriculants who failed the first time. During the school year we give homework support and thanks to the Zerilda Steyn Bursary, we are able to assist those who want to further their education at a tertiary institution.”
She adds that the centre’s social development programme is for Communicare tenants only and happens where tenants are living. An after-school programme for children in the complexes is also provided.
“We try to help with the needs of our tenants, especially the vulnerable ones, by helping them to gain access to appropriate support services.”
Many other programmes are offered but on Mandela Day it was fun repainting the centre with lots of laughter and banter.
Those interested in participating in Vulamathuba Empumelelo programmes are encouraged to contact admin@vulamathuba.org.za.
