Bright Start campaign gives Imizamo Yethu, Hangberg youth a chance

CHILDREN and youth from Imizamo Yethu and Hangberg who find themselves facing a lack of opportunity in addition to the crime they face on a daily basis, can look forward to the Bright Start campaign operating in their suburbs.

Bright Start is a local non-profit organisation aimed at “providing a brighter future” for the children in poorer communities in the greater Hout Bay area.

Registered in 2008, the organisation provides education and a safe space for learning for children as young as three. Fundraising co-ordinator, Suzan Eriksson said the organisation was started with the aim of helping children from disadvantaged backgrounds to receive quality education.

The mentorship programmes provide on-going support outside the classroom. It addresses social, cultural and physical needs, ensuring that the child and families reach their potential.

“Bright Start transforms the lives of children, families and communities through education. It changes the futures of children by promoting social inclusion and equal opportunities,” said Eriksson.

Imizamo Yethu and Hangberg differ in their population demographics withImizamo Yethu predominantly occupied by migrants from over Africa, while Hangberg is a traditional fishing community that has lived there for generations. But, they face similar problems.

“The has been a huge growth in population which resulted in shortage of resources”, said Eriksson.

With two state high schools, three primary schools, and three registered preschools, too many children are not enrolled and at risk, she said.

Many of the schools are overcrowded and teachers are challenged.

The youth in the areas are faced with the challenges of poverty, drugs, early pregnancies and dropping out of school.

Elizabeth Jacobs, a domestic worker, said she was thankful her son was involved with Bright Start. “My son was five years (old) when he started with Bright Start and now he is in Grade 7.

“The centre helped me out quite a lot; they have taken a load off my shoulders.”

Her son, Diego Jacobs, is one of two boys accepted at Wynberg Boys High School for enrolment next year.

Athenkosi Xesha, 13, in Grade 8 at Norman Henshilwood High School in Constantia, said she will use the opportunity which Bright Start has granted her.

Kanyiswa Kasibi, outreach programme manager said the workshops have grown considerably.