GROWING THE LOVE FOR STORIES & READING

There was joy, energy and a true love for reading at Elliot Library in eKhowa, Chris Hani East, as the community came together for an early World Book and Copyright Day celebration at Hillview Primary School. What made the day unforgettable was the heart behind it. Former SEF beneficiaries, who refused to stop when the project ended, are now leading the way. Their passion filled the space as they brought stories to life and inspired young readers. Together with the library and Sakhisizwe Municipality, they are keeping Nal’ibali reading activities alive and growing. This is what happens when a community believes in the power of stories. It lives on, it grows, and it reaches even more children. A celebration of books, yes. But even more, a celebration of commitment, growth and community spirit. #WorldBookDay #Nalibali #LiteracyInAction #ReadingForJoy

The Gauteng Provincial team, led by Sithembiso Nhlapo, spent two impactful days at Sakhimfundo, in Marlboro. Together with the tutors, they explored what Reading Clubs are, how to run them, and why they matter, especially in township communities where access to books is limited. The visit ended with the creation of a beautiful reading corner to inspire storytelling, reading, and the growth of Reading Clubs. As Sithembiso shared, “Thank you [team] for your openness, commitment, and passion for building a culture of reading in your community.”

We wrapped up a meaningful two-day Reading Club training with UZIMA eMbuzeni in Soweto. Together, we unpacked South Africa’s literacy challenges and explored what it takes to build, run, and sustain impactful Reading Clubs, from practical activities to long-term community ownership. Reading Clubs are more than just spaces to read. In township and rural communities, they become safe, nurturing environments where children can imagine, learn, and grow, often where access to books and literacy support is limited. They help build confidence, language, and a lifelong love for reading. We closed off the training by creating a reading corner together, turning knowledge into something tangible and lasting. A heartfelt thank you to the UZIMA eMbuzeni team. Your passion, commitment, and belief in the power of reading is what will keep these spaces alive and thriving. #LiteracyMatters #ReadingClubs #Nalibali #AccessToBooks #ReadingForEnjoyment

For one impactful week, the Jozi South ECD Forum became a space of growth, storytelling, and inspiration. Practitioners and principals came together to dive into Iintsana namabali a programme created to bring stories to life in early childhood spaces. Through shared learning, reflection, and practical tools, we explored how language, play, and storytelling can shape a child’s world from the very beginning. Because when educators are inspired, children don’t just learn they imagine, express, and thrive. #Nalibali #ECD #EarlyChildhoodDevelopment #LiteracyMatters #ReadingForChange