July saw Alex, Brenda and I (along with our families) take a road trip up to Coffee Bay to visit Ikhaya Labantwana Montessori. If you have ever driven those Eastern Cape roads you will know just how challenging the driving can be, but when you arrive…totally worth it! It is surrounded by hills and right on the ocean, such untouched beauty. Our aim was to see the project and area first hand as well as spend some time with the staff. We learnt more about the school and I can honestly say it is immaculate. The kids have access to a brilliant foundational education and an environment that cares for the particular challenges of the rural child. Things like regular deworming and transport issues take on a new meaning here. The waiting list is long, with kids travelling long distances to attend school, sometimes boarding with other families nearby during the week. With the help of Brenda, Dawn was able to formulate her mission statement as being able to “educate, encourage and improve the lives of young rural children by giving them the best start in life”. What a privilege to partner with this awesome woman!
Sponsor a Child
This initiative was introduced when I presented across the companies during June and July. The response has been great with only two children still needing sponsorship. So if you haven’t gotten around to signing up- it all kicks off in August and we would love to have you on board. If you missed these presentations, I’m always keen to grab a cup of tea! Each company is unique in their approach to sponsoring a child.
Pamper Pack
The Convergency finance team really outdid themselves in collecting and putting together this phenomenal pamper pack for Dawn to enjoy whilst on sabbatical. We managed to work out a schedule that should ensure she gets a good break from August until the end of the year and hopefully feel revitalised for 2016. Thank you to ALL who contributed, she was truly overwhelmed and shocked by this show of generosity. And they will know them by their love.
Who’s Who
Struggling to keep up with all these acronyms and names? Don’t worry, I was too!
Sustainable Coffee Bay (SCB)- The Non Profit Organisation (NPO) that Coffee Shack backpackers started.
Ikhaya Labantwana Montessori (ILM)- One of the projects that SCB runs and the project WE are involved in.
David– Coffee Shack owner
Dawn– Our key liasion & principal
Nomonde, Fundi, Irene & Nokuthula– Directress/ teacher
Music– Gardner
Hlehle– Cook
