2009 is turning out to be a great year for the 12 to 18-year-olds from the Barend Johannes Vorster Shelter in Alberton - thanks to an initiative by Indwe Risk Services Alberton.

In line with their policy of giving back to the community, Indwe has teamed up with Alberton Child Welfare to launch Ithemba: Project Hope.
The project aims at equipping disadvantaged young people with essential life skills that range from personal hygiene to reading and writing.

Started in January and scheduled to run until December this year, the programme caters for about 18 youngsters who get together every Friday for practical lessons on how to draw up a CV, how to handle a job interview and many more skills they will need in their work and private lives.

Known as the Alberton Youth Ambassadors, the children are tackling their lessons with gusto. They also take time out for social interaction, healthy recreation like a game of soccer and other fun activities. Plus, they are planning a few bigger projects for the year ahead.

One of these is the growing of a vegetable garden that will allow them to learn all about gardening while growing their own fresh produce. Surplus veggies will be sold to boost the shelter’s coffers.

Another project the kids have already started working on is Entrepreneurs Day, which will be held later in the year. During this event the arts and crafts they’ve been creating throughout the year, such as beadwork, paintings, wind charms, bird feeders, etc. will be sold at a street market. The money raised will be used to buy necessities for the children.

“It is wonderful to see how these activities boost their confidence and self-image,” says Melanie Wagner, Manager of Indwe Risk Services Alberton.
Melanie and Marna Smit, also from Indwe, are the driving force behind the project, together with Elmarie Kennedy and Bianca Ferreira from Alberton Child Welfare and Caron MacGregor from BMW Alberante.

Some Alberton businesses are also becoming involved. “We are thrilled with the support we’re receiving from organisations like BMW Alberante and the Chamber of Commerce,” says Melanie.

“BMW organised and sponsored a fantastic Easter Day celebration for the Ambassadors at their premises. One of the owners, Eben Jansen, gave the kids a closer look at the engineering and technology that make the luxury 7-series such sought-after vehicles.”

They also received a gift pack from BMW and Easter Eggs from Indwe. Judging by the sparkling eyes and wide smiles, working on or owning a BMW has just jumped to the top of many a boy’s wish list!

The Chamber of Commerce is currently in discussions with Indwe on how they could contribute to the weekly curriculum and the project in general.
“Our Ambassadors are great kids and we need to support them in any way we can. Indwe and BMW Alberante will be renovating their rooms later in the year,” says Melanie.

The shelter is also in dire need of clothing for the children, as well as toiletries and other necessities.

Members of the public who would like to make a contribution towards improving life for these young people can call Melanie on (011) 867 5544 or Elmarie Kennedy and Bianca Ferreira on (011) 907 3004.