GROWING THE LOVE FOR STORIES & READING

Some people don’t just read stories. They become part of a child’s story. Watching Dr Nompucuko Zakaza share books with children is a beautiful reminder that reading is an act of love. Every story she tells is filled with warmth, joy, and care, creating moments where children feel seen, heard, valued, and free to imagine. Their laughter, curiosity, and excitement say it all. In those moments, stories become more than words on a page. They become opportunities to build confidence, spark creativity, strengthen language, and remind every child that their dreams matter. Through her unwavering commitment to reading for enjoyment, Dr Zakaza is helping children discover the magic of books while nurturing a lifelong love of reading. She is showing them that their voices deserve to be heard, their ideas have value, and that every child has the power to write their own story. Thank you, Dr Nompucuko Zakaza, for leading with compassion, purpose, and heart. Your dedication is transforming lives one story, one smile, and one child at a time. Together, let’s continue creating a world where every child grows up surrounded by stories, love, and the joy of reading. #Nalibali #ItStartsWithAStory #ReadingForEnjoyment #Storytelling

Powerful partnerships are transforming communities! Our valued partner, the Sakhisizwe Digital Education Program, joined the Jojweni Reading Clubs in Lady Frere for an exciting holiday programme that brought children together through the joy of reading, storytelling, and learning. This work is made possible by our passionate volunteers, now formally placed through Ripples of Change, who continue to champion a lasting culture of reading and family literacy in their communities. When organisations, volunteers, and communities come together, children thrive. Together, we’re not just running programmes, we’re nurturing confident readers, lifelong learners, and brighter futures. 🎥 Watch the video below and experience the joy of children reading with confidence, curiosity, and excitement. Every page turned is a step towards a brighter future. Thank you to everyone making this journey possible! #Nalibali #ItStartsWithAStory #ReadingForEnjoyment #FamilyLiteracy

Every reader has a story. Every writer begins with a dream. At just 17 years old, Siyamthanda Peko has turned a childhood dream into reality with the publication of I am My Roots (Ndizingcambu Zam). Growing up in the Eastern Cape, Siyamthanda discovered the power of books and writing at a young age. Her journey reminds us that stories can help us process grief, inspire hope, and imagine new possibilities. It also highlights why creating opportunities for children and young people to read for enjoyment is so important. We believe that every child deserves access to stories that reflect their experiences and inspire them to dream big. Today’s readers are tomorrow’s storytellers, authors, and changemakers. Congratulations, Siyamthanda! Thank you for using your voice to inspire a new generation of readers. We wish you every success on your writing journey. #Nalibali #ItStartsWithAStory #ReadingForEnjoyment #LiteracyMatters #YoungAuthors

📰 We’re in the Mail & Guardian! We’re honoured to be featured in this week’s @mailandguardian (M&G), with a beautifully written article by @rolland_simpi_motaung that truly captures the heart of the Men’s Literacy Imbizo. Thank you, Rolland, for telling this story with such care and for shining a light on the importance of fathers and male caregivers reading, storytelling, and learning alongside children. Your article reflects exactly what we strive for: creating a culture where every child grows up surrounded by stories, supported by caring adults, and inspired to read. Pick up a copy of the M&G to read the full feature and learn more about the movement to get more men reading with children. #MensLiteracyImbizo #Nalibali #FamilyLiteracy #ReadToChildren