Books donation expands learning opportunities for iSithumba youth
The Denis Hurley Centre donated books to the community of iSithumba in the Valley of 1000 Hills.
CHILDREN in the rural community of iSithumba in the Valley of 1000 Hills now have greater access to educational resources thanks to a books donation from the Denis Hurley Street Lit Project.
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The collection, which focuses on conservation, wildlife, tourism, and sustainability, will be available to the 60 children who visit iSithumba Travels Adventure Park daily after school. Amimi Mlaba, owner and manager of iSithumba Travels, said the donation supports their broader mission of using tourism to drive community upliftment. Managed under the iSithumba Community Development Movement (ICDM), the park is not only an adventure tourism destination but also a hub for education and environmental awareness.
“We are so excited to start our library and give children a chance to read books that stimulate curiosity and a love for the natural world. By providing access to books that teach about wildlife and conservation, we are nurturing a new generation that will care for and protect our natural heritage,” said Mlaba.
The books were donated by the Denis Hurley Centre’s Street Lit Project, an initiative that supports Durban’s homeless community by helping them run second-hand book businesses. Project manager Illa Thompson emphasised the importance of extending book access beyond city centres.
“We are especially mindful of the limited access many people have to books outside of urban areas. Knowing about this project, we set aside books that would benefit the children being mentored at iSithumba,” said Thompson.
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With limited libraries in the area, children in iSithumba often lack reading materials. This donation creates an informal learning space where they can develop stronger literacy skills and a deeper understanding of environmental conservation. iSithumba Travels is seeking donations of bookshelves to store the collection.
Those interested in assisting can contact Mlaba at 065 936 4418. The Denis Hurley Street Lit Project also welcomes book donations to support its vendors. Contributions can be made to the project bookshop by contacting the Denis Hurley Centre at 031 301 2240.
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