From Alison's Point of View

Thursday was a showing off kind of day. I’m so proud to be a part of GAGA and of our supporters and donors being able to do so much good.

Gogo Doreen headed off to First Step Right to share the books she has bought for the school with the teachers. She has purchased a reading scheme for the school which has books which progress in levels, and come with teachers’ resources. Gael and Allison to 1000 Hills. We were shown around by Sonto, Sibo and Karen who all shared the wonderful work of the centre with us.

Sibo shared some of his wisdom, saying that we can't teach children to be who they want to be if the parents don't know they can be whatever they want. It was a lovely way to sum up both the challenges and the possibilities that they are facing with their work. It's a huge challenge to empower people to see what they're capable of and what their potential is, whilst also being a huge possibility to open someone up to those possibilities (and pass this outlook on to their children to help break the cycle of poverty).  

Later on, me and Gogo headed to see Thembi, close to 1000 Hills, who last year did some sewing work for the new crèche at First Step Right. We took her loads of material to make some new curtains for the rest of the school, thanks to funds raised by Gogo Doreen. I had a quick material cutting lesson and then we went on our way. 

Meanwhile, Alison, Kyle and Hana continued getting to know the children and teachers at First Step Right. (Rugby, yoga, reading ... all sorts!!)

In the afternoon we were shown around Hillcrest AIDS Centre by their wonderful fundraising manager Claire. We heard about the Respite Unit as well as the educational and support projects that HACT run. We also had time to see their brand new Woza Moya shop! (So gorgeous - a must see if you're ever in Hillcrest!). 

A well deserved coffee was enjoyed by all, and then a good supper back at Phe Zulu. 

'We rise by lifting others'