Sukuma Sakhe Development is a non-profit organisation which, at its core, strives to provide opportunities to disadvantaged or troubled youth, acting as a catalyst for change within the lives they touch.
Sukuma sakhe means ‘Let’s stand up and build’.
The organisation was started in 2014 and today it has two buses which act as classrooms and travel to underdeveloped and marginalised communities in Gauteng – places where children who are on the street instead of in a classroom, learning.
What makes the organisation stand out is that it not only focuses on child and youth development but the development of their parents as well. Luleka Ntshongwana, the organisation’s programme leader, said parent effectiveness training is an essential part of what they do. “We envisage an empowered nation, comprised of self-sufficient, productive individuals who are able to live meaningful and fulfilling lives,” she said.
The organisation employs teachers, trained by Sukuma Sakhe. Many of the educators were interviewed by the organisation in the communities the it already serves. This is another initiative to help build communities.
Ntshongwana said the organisation also focuses on the worldwide problem of drug abuse. “We have rehabilitative treatment, targeted at troubled children and youth. Throughout the province, we also conduct educational awareness outreach programmes focused on anti-substance abuse and the prevention thereof. It is surprising how many of our youth struggle with this problem,” she said.
The rehabilition offered helps youth and children by offering consultations and treatment to those dependent on substances.
The organisation partnered with government where most of their funding comes from. “We frequently partner with the Department of Social Development to further assist communities. We need each other,” she said.
Ntshongwana said people’s self-worth needs to be restored. “It comes from inside. Simply building a house for a person will not necessarily save them,” she said.
Throughout the development of their programmes, the organisation focuses on being proactive rather than reactive.
Sukuma Sakhe welcomes your support. You can get in contact with Ntshongwana on 011 880 5767; 074 905 0325; www.ssd.org.za
