The Nal'ibali-VW Literacy Project team recently hosted the Nal'ibali Literacy Men's Imbizo at the VW Pavillion in Kariega, Eastern Cape. The event, which aims to encourage men to become reading models for children, was attended by community members and Nal'ibali-VW Literacy Project partners like the Eastern Cape Department of Education, and Masifunde Changemaker Academy. Attendees received training on how to read aloud and tell stories to children, and the importance of play-based learning activities.

Launched in May 2022, Nal'ibali's Men's Literacy Imbizo is the brainchild of like-minded men from KwaNobuhle township, Kariega, Eastern Cape. The Men's Imbizo originated from the #RealMenRead and #GetCaughtReading campaigns, highlighting the power of campaigns in shaping social behaviour.  

The Nal'ibali Men's Literacy Imbizo aims to upskill men in the literacy space and create a network of men who are interested in building a culture of reading for enjoyment in their communities. This platform provides a space where men can engage in issues affecting them as reading roles and share tips on how to grow as literacy activists. Nal'ibali provides support for the Men's Literacy Imbizo members through literacy training, events, and creating more platforms where they can communicate with each other.  

The Nal'ibali Men's Literacy Imbizo has grown in numbers and has been presented at national literacy events like the Litasa Conference. The success of the campaign prompted Mzwakhe Festile from the Eastern Cape Department of Education to share a testimonial about its impact on the reading culture in Kariega,  Eastern Cape.