Storytelling festival empowers young readers in Katlehong

The Atlehang Readers’ Foundation recently hosted its second annual Storytelling Festival at the Katlehong Library Auditorium to empower children through literacy.

The event taught children how to read effectively and celebrated the achievements of learners who have made significant progress.

Spearheaded by founder Lungile Nyundu, the initiative offers targeted reading and writing lessons to help children develop foundational literacy skills.

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“We assist children who have the challenge of reading. I had one student whose parent had no hope that their child would ever learn to read.

“We have worked with him, and he now reads novels. Our next journey with him is to help him read for understanding,” said Nyundu.

Through its structured approach, the foundation helps learners develop essential abilities, such as letter recognition, reading fluency, comprehension, curiosity and self-awareness.

Partnerships with Kasi FM, Nal’bali, the CoE, the Ekurhuleni Library and Izibuko Primary School made the event possible.

The organisation often works with children referred to special schools due to cognitive learning challenges.

“Reading paragraphs and combining letters to form words was a mission for some learners,” said Nyundu.

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“Apart from reading, we do sports and extracurricular activities. Our primary goal is to advance ‘progressed’ students and engage them beyond the classroom.

“They advance through the grades without learning to read and write because they are progressing, which eventually causes difficulties for students, teachers and parents. Sometimes, teachers send students to special schools when they just need a little guidance.”

Nyundu expressed concern that learners labelled as “progressed’ often moved through the system without basic literacy, limiting their future opportunities.

“The future challenge with progressed learners is that they will grow without the ability to read and write. Special schools often focus on equipping them with hand skills like sewing, drawing and carpentry. These skills are valuable, but we want these children to learn how to read their future contracts with understanding.”

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Nyundu, a qualified teacher, has earned recognition for her efforts. In 2024, she received recognition at the National Teachers Awards: Ekurhuleni cluster for excellence in primary school teaching. She is also an English first additional language professional learning communities leader, storyteller and motivational speaker.

“It was my first time as an entrant. Through rigorous selection processes and interviews, I was awarded. The award recognised my work and motivated me.”

The festival also featured performances by local talent Sphelele the Poet, Iconic Gwijo (a singing group) and storyteller Yonela Magaliso.

“Through the programme, I spend time with the learners. Everyone has made progress, and they’ve begun to enjoy writing and reciting their poems,” said Nyundu.

“These acts went beyond entertainment; they reminded the children that their dreams and talents are valid.

“Having poets and talented artists is vital. The education department must support our vision and mission. We urge them to support us.”

As September is National Book Week, Nyundu stressed the importance of encouraging reading from a young age.

“Reading is important for children for pleasure. It’s good for their brain development and keeps them occupied for a few hours each day.”

Nyundu urged residents to contribute to the organisation by donating books and resources for the programme’s future success.
To donate or for more information, contact Nyundu on 073 375 0813 or nyundulungile@gmail.com.