Welcome to our March newsletter. We've tried to capture the energy and excitement of the month's activities — we hope you enjoy the read.
Without the generous donations and support from individuals, businesses and organisations, Ikamva Labantu would be unable to operate as it does. Thank you for your continued openhandedness!
Best regards
The Ikamva Labantu team
Nando's hosts a party for its adopted family
As part of their 21st anniversary celebrations, Nando's adopted 21 underprivileged children. These 21 orphaned children were treated to a party held especially for them at Nando's in Kenilworth. In addition to receiving a wholesome meal, the children were entertained by Nando's staff, after which each child received their very own gift. Ikamva Labantu appreciates Nando's generosity.
Spur feeds Chess players
Ikamva Labantu would like to thank Spur head office for generously donating food vouchers for the Chess 4 Hope tournament team during their matches on 6 and 7 March. In addition to receiving a kiddies meal each, the children were given a bunch of toys to keep them entertained. On 27 and 28 March, Spur once again provided food vouchers for a chess tournament, which was well received by all.
Saldanah Group Holdings (SGH) donates funds
Thanks to SGH, 10-year-old Bongiwe Mbulawa (also known as 'the queen of chess') is attending a closed tournament in Rustenburg, which will determine whether or not she will represent the South African Chess Team abroad. SGH donated R5 700, which will go towards Bongiwe's accommodation, travel, food and additional training. Ikamva Labantu would like to thank SGH for investing in a child's future, thus helping to inspire other young learners from underprivileged backgrounds.
Grand chess master visits local high school
On 18 March Maurice Ashley, referred to as 'the Tiger Woods of chess' was flown to Cape Town from America by Chess for Change (a non-profit chess organisation). Chess 4 Hope (Ikamva Labantu's chess programme) was privileged enough to have had him visit Fezeka high school. Fezeka's learners were mesmerised by his charismatic presence and astounded that he could play a game of chess blindfolded and still win! He inspired learners with stories about how he became involved in chess and how he defied his impoverished background to become the first African-American grand chess master — one of the highest accolades in the game. On 22 March the Chess 4 Hope tournament team participated in a Chess for Change tournament in which Maurice participated. It was held at the MTN Science Centre, which further added to the excitement of such a prestigious event. Ikamva Labantu would like to thank John Dory for providing meals for learners during the Maurice Ashley Tournament.