In an unequal country like South Africa, the legacy of colonialism and apartheid continues to define the ability of the majority to participate meaningfully in our economy and society. If more people had access to the knowledge and skills needed to build a thriving society, the entire country would benefit.
Resource centres like this one in the Eastern Cape, are vital to connect those previously excluded from information and opportunity.
We want to ensure that all people – particularly those that are marginalised – benefit from social and technological innovation to improve their livelihoods and quality of life. This requires cultivating and connecting imaginative leaders to change the status quo; releasing the systemic chokes that trap us in inequality; and building productive synergies between communities and the environment.
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These projects are by no means a comprehensive list of the work of civil society. This list represents a small selection of organisations that will be updated from time to time
A collective action organisation that drives community development through mobilising systems and support for young people. Amandla Development aims to reach as many youths in Philippi as possible, supporting them as they navigate poverty and violence in their community. With mentors, tutors and counselling, young people have a better chance at harnessing their education to reach their full potential.
A community grant-maker that reaches small community-based organisations and change drivers that are often overlooked by large donors and government departments. They also work to build relationships with local government, businesses and other organisations to develop long-term solutions to some of the most challenging circumstances in communities – including poverty, access to health care, education and unemployment.
Philani is a home-based care service driven by community health workers to reduce stunting and alcohol-related harms in low-resource communities in Cape Town. In many of these communities, pregnant women face health risks associated with alcohol abuse and poor nutrition, resulting in fetal alcohol syndrome and children with low birth weight. These women are supported by Philani through mentoring programmes to ensure pregnancies are safe and children grow up healthy.
This is a voluntary association that advocates for spatial equality and improved municipal services for the community of Observatory. The association aims to bridge the gap between their community, the municipality and other governmental organisations. It also supports development that is people-centred, environmentally sustainable, responsive to their local built environment and socially inclusive.
An organisation that works to promote zero waste and sustainable living, empowering South Africans to create more sustainable lifestyles and reduce their waste output. They organise programmes, events and campaigns to educate the public about waste reduction and sustainability and work to build a network of people who are dedicated to sustainable living.
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