Bongiwe is the kind of educator parents dream of. She’s caring, energetic, and deeply committed to her community. With a university diploma in teaching, she stepped into the role of principal after the passing of her mother, who founded the school.

“Khulani was my mom’s dream,” she shares. “She worked tirelessly to make it an affordable option for families in our community. When she passed away, I knew I had to continue her legacy. We dreamed of this together.”

Every day, around forty-two children attend Khulani to take their first steps in learning and development. After morning chants and prayers, Bongiwe and her three assistants lead a playful outdoor session filled with songs and movement.

“These are not just games,” she explains. “We use physical activities to ensure that children are developing well. Sometimes parents don’t notice when their kids are unwell or have minor injuries. By making them jump, stretch, and dance, we can monitor their health and keep them active.”

The exercise is followed by the children’s favourite time of the day: breakfast! In a small kitchen, the school cook stirs a pot of ForAfrika’s fortified porridge, portioning it into the familiar red bowls. The children’s cheerful squeals fill the air: they know exactly what time it is.

“They really look forward to this meal,” says Bongiwe. “Many families in our community struggle to provide all daily meals. Knowing that their children receive nutritious food here gives parents peace of mind. With support from partners like ForAfrika, we can keep the centre affordable and still ensure proper nutrition.”

ForAfrika’s fortified porridge has become a lifeline in early childhood centres across Southern Africa. Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, it provides children with 75% of a child’s daily nutritional requirements that they need to grow, learn, and thrive.

Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres like Khulani play a vital role in breaking the cycle of poverty. The first five years of life are decisive: by age five, a child’s brain reaches 90% of its adult size. It is during this time that emotional, social, and cognitive foundations are built. By ensuring proper nutrition and stimulation, centres like Khulani are shaping the adults these children will become.

Each month, ForAfrika supports Khulani with fortified porridge for breakfast. This single meal provides the energy and nutrients the children need to stay active and engaged throughout the day. It also allows the school to redirect resources from meal costs toward improving facilities and other needs.

“I bring my granddaughter here, just as I brought my children years ago,” says Mama Thembi, a local resident. “Khulani offers the best care and healthy meals at a price families can manage. I thank Bongiwe for continuing her mother’s dream.”

In 2023, retail chain Woolworths joined hands with ForAfrika and Khulani, by establishing a school garden that now supplements the children’s meals with fresh produce.

As Bongiwe continues to grow Khulani Pre-School, ForAfrika stands beside her. Together, we aim to expand partnerships, strengthen the school’s infrastructure, and continue building a nurturing space for children to flourish.

Hand in hand, we can ensure that children in South Africa have the chance to grow, learn, and thrive.