GROWING THE LOVE FOR STORIES & READING

Community volunteers are at the heart of our work, creating opportunities for children to experience the power of stories and reading every day. At Ncora Flats in Cofimvaba, the Abathembu baseRhoda and Ncora community hosted a special Nal’ibali Appreciation Day to celebrate the dedication and impact of local reading champions. The event highlighted the important role that volunteers play in building a culture of reading and supporting children’s learning and development. Our Executive Director, Lorato Trok, was honoured to join the celebration and witness the passion, commitment, and community spirit that continue to make a difference in the lives of children and families. Thank you to every volunteer who helps bring stories to life and inspires a love of reading in their communities.

Dear Young People, This Youth Day, we would like to encourage you to reflect on the important role you play in your homes, schools, and communities. The young people of 1976 demonstrated courage, determination, and a belief in a better future. Their legacy reminds us that young people have the power to create meaningful change. Today, that change can begin with simple actions: reading to a younger sibling, sharing a story with a friend, starting a reading club, volunteering in your community, or using your voice to inspire others. Every act of kindness, leadership, and learning contributes to building stronger communities. We encourage young people to embrace the power of reading and storytelling. Stories help us understand ourselves, connect with others, imagine new possibilities, and shape the future we want to see. As you commemorate Youth Day, take a moment to ask yourself: How am I contributing to my community? How can I help others learn and grow? What story do I want to tell through my actions? Your voice matters. Your story matters. Your future matters. Happy Youth Day, South Africa.

Watch the video below and listen to Nal’ibalians Cherith Johnson, Khuthalo Mahlangu, and Nelisiwe Tshabalala as they respond to Nal’ibali’s question ahead of June 16: “How can reading and storytelling help continue the vision of the 1976 youth in today’s society?” Recorded on the sidelines of the Special Youth Parliament Sitting at the Gauteng Legislature in Johannesburg, their reflections highlight the power of stories to inspire action, preserve history, amplify young voices, and help build the future envisioned by the youth of 1976. #YouthDay #June16 #Nalibali #YouthVoices #YouthParliament

The Nal’ibali team is participating in the 50th anniversary commemoration organised by Parliament in Johannesburg this morning. As we reflect on the legacy of the youth of 1976, we honour their courage, resilience, and determination to secure a better future. Their struggle reminds us of the transformative power of education and the importance of ensuring that every child has access to learning opportunities, stories, and books. Together, we continue building a nation where children can read, learn, imagine, and thrive. #June16 #YouthDay #Nalibali #Parliament #LiteracyForAll