Youth Day with Imibala: Uplifting Tomorrow’s Leaders, Today
Youth Day is a time to reflect on the power and potential of young people across South Africa – and right here in Somerset West, one local organisation is steadily transforming that potential into reality every day.
The Imibala Trust, rooted in Bright Street in the heart of our village, has been a beacon of hope since 2002. Founded by Mrs. Gaynor Rupert, the Trust supports children affected by poverty with programmes that go far beyond the classroom. From supplying school uniforms through their Sponsor-a-Child Programme, to offering further enrichment through their creative, performing arts and academic programmes, Imibala meets learners where they are — and helps them grow into who they’re meant to be.
Each week, nearly 800 children come through the doors of the Somerset West campus. Whether they’re attending a maths or coding session, stepping into their first ballet class, or rehearsing with the inspiring Yes-Ya-Yebo! performing arts group (who are heading to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe this August!), every child at Imibala is seen, supported, and celebrated.
This growing impact is not just felt in Somerset West. Imibala has expanded into three new towns – Graaff-Reinet, Hermanus and Moorreesburg – bringing much-needed resources and opportunities to under-resourced communities. These new campuses mirror the Somerset West model, aiming to offer the same mix of dignity, creativity and learning to children across the country.
Back at the original campus, ‘The Imibala Village’, a small but powerful change has made a big difference: a new pedestrian crossing on Bright Street now connects Imibala’s buildings located on either side of the bustling road, allowing children to walk safely between activities. It’s a simple reminder that keeping children safe – physically, emotionally and educationally – requires the care of a whole community.
Sometimes, the most powerful impact happens in the smallest moments. Like the story of a Grade 2 learner whose oversized, worn-out, hand-me-down shoes were recently replaced through the Sponsor-a-Child Programme – not just with a better fit, but with dignity and joy. “It was a small act,” says School Liaison Officer Marlene Jaars, “but one that made a big difference in his life.”
Want to get involved? Here’s how you can support Imibala:
Visit the new Imibala Café, opening soon at 18 Bright Street – a hub for training young adults in hospitality. Keep an eye out on our socials @imibala_trust_npo for the official opening date!
Support the Yes-Ya-Yebo! Show: Catch their preview performance at Lourensford Wine Estate on 28 June. Book here and follow their journey on Instagram at @yes.ya.yebo.
Support Imibala's Special events: Imibala hosts special events every year, such as the Annual Golf Day at Erinvale in October. They welcome partnerships with businesses to help expand support for their special events. Contact hannah@imibala.com for more information.
Sponsor a child: Just R1 500 to clothe a learner for an entire school year. This includes a full school tracksuit, a pair of leather school shoes, a jersey, a rain jacket, socks, underwear, a t-shirt and a school bag with basic stationery.
Volunteer your time: Whether you have a creative skill or academic expertise, there’s a place for you. Learn more here.
This Youth Day, we honour organisations like Imibala that champion not only access, but excellence – opening doors for children to discover their talents, build self-belief, and imagine a future beyond their current circumstances. Imibala reminds us that when we invest in children, we’re investing in hope.