SINCE its inception, Lungisani-Indlela (LI), a non-profit organisation (NPO), which was founded by Tich and Joan Smith, has helped cater for the ever-growing needs of the Amaoti community.
Amaoti, which is one of the largest informal settlements in Durban, suffers high levels of unemployment and other social problems.
For Durban North resident and Lungisani-Indlela member, Faye Curtis, the vision has always been to transform and empower the lives of the youth of Amaoti.
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One of the ways the NPO has done this is through its learner support programme, which assists and mentors young learners.
Curtis added that the Safe House within the township has also helped children who come from neglect and abusive situations.
“When Lungisani-Indlela first started off, we had a back-to-school programme that, over time, changed to the learner support programme. This allowed us to employ youth workers, through sponsorships from the community, and equipped them to work with children in the community.
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“We were also fortunate to have members of churches help mentor young children, this was prior to the Covid-19 pandemic and we had great support from Northwood School. The school came on board to assist with academic tutors who help mentor young children with various subjects on Saturday mornings. They have recently indicated that we may be able to continue these lessons next term,” Curtis said.
Speaking on the Safe House, Curtis said children under the care of the NPO’s dedicated house mother, Noluthando Gabisa, and the support from local and international churches has helped many children succeed in their schooling lives.
“This would not be possible without our sponsors who give us the opportunity to change lives. We urge the community to reach out to us to find out how they can get involved. We are totally reliant on donations and every small act of kindness has a ripple effect,” she said.
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If you would like to support the NPO, contact Innocent Msani on 031 505 8811, or follow the NPO on Facebook (Lungisani-Indlela).
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