Bambisanani Partnership Visit to South Africa

Following eighteen months of preparation, planning and fundraising, we are happy to report that fifteen of our Year 12 students recently returned from their mission to deliver a ‘Leadership Through Sport’ programme’ to students at Mnyakanya High School situated in the remote, rural Nkandla area of South Africa. 

This year’s visit was led by Miss Wood with support from Mrs Chattoe, Mr Rogozinski and two volunteers from the Jordan Sinnett Foundation, Miss Crooks and Mr Crooks. 

The visit started in rural Nkandla where St. Mary’s students led and organised the Bambisanani Schools’ Athletic competition for thirteen local primary schools. Impressive times and distances were recorded despite the children running barefoot on difficult terrain. 

Following leadership training, forty-five Mnyakanya High School students were fully equipped and confident enough to organise and host a spectacular Sports and Reading Festival for over 100 children from Ntolwane Primary School. Both festivals were a tremendous success and enjoyed by all.

As part of the visit, the St. Mary’s students delivered lessons in a wide range of curriculum areas. Enthusiastic staff and students from Mnyakanya High School experienced high quality lessons in maths, biology, physics and geography. 

A pinnacle point in the visit saw the St. Mary’s students volunteering at uMlalazi Day Centre and Crèche, a centre for orphans and vulnerable children run by the Zulufadder Children’s Trust. This was a magical time for St. Mary’s students where they loved bringing stories to life with the use of props and toys. The students also acted out Going on a Bear Hunt and had a teddy bears picnic. 

Miss Wood said, "Once again the visit exceeded all expectations. The students were an asset to the school. They showed true Bambisanani spirit, and I am proud of how far they have developed as fantastic individuals"

Gina Bene-Hamill said, 'I was told it would be amazing, but it was better than that, each day I was more amazed and grateful for being there. It was the best experience I have ever had'.

Evie Harris said, 'Volunteering in South Africa was an experience I have learnt so much from I have made memories I will keep with me forever'.

Niamh Casey said, ‘Bambisanani was a truly eye-opening experience that has provided me with so many unforgettable life lessons.