A long-term commitment to nurturing potential and restoring dignity continues to transform the lives in the community of Bhambayi, where the ReStory Foundation is quietly building pathways to opportunity for hundreds of vulnerable children and families.

Natalie Naude, empowerment manager at the Foundation, said that one of the key questions the work is rooted in is: What does it take for a child not just to survive, but to truly thrive?

“Thriving is about far more than meeting immediate needs. It’s about life skills, supportive relationships, and opportunities that help young people realise their potential.”

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The Foundation’s journey in Bhambayi began in 2007 when its founder and CEO, Mandy Pearson, heard that severe flooding had devastated parts of the area. Partnering with local community leader and Siyathuthuka Crèche principal, Lillian Mokoatle, they worked together to support families and restore what had been lost.

What followed, as community leaders met together with a number from the Durban North area, was the birth of the Bhambayi Project, later renamed the ReStory Foundation, and, with that, the development of a community-based orphan support model that continues to grow today.

Learning programmes

Currently, nearly 500 children are part of the programme, supported from Grade R through to matric, with additional skills development opportunities for young adults, and supportive programmes for caregivers and parents.

Children identified as needing critical support due to severe neglect or trauma are provided with further psycho-social support from two social workers who are part of the team.

Rather than offering short-term charity, the foundation focuses on empowerment and building lasting relationships. Some children whose situations are more challenging are paired with hope mentors, and support may include essentials such as stationery, school uniforms, and guidance throughout their education journey.

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“We don’t dictate to our sponsors what support must look like as long as it gives dignity. People contribute in the way they can — whether that’s mentoring, helping with maths, sharing trade knowledge, opening doors of opportunity, or simply building a relationship with a child.”

Education remains a central pillar of the initiative, with weekly programmes from robotics and coding to art and dance. Every Friday, around 430 children attend Maths and Literacy Club, where volunteers and mentors help learners strengthen their confidence in the subject.

Growth and success

“It’s a life journey. This work is not a quick fix. But when you walk alongside a child for years, you start to see extraordinary transformation,” said Naude.

The organisation is also preparing for its next phase of growth — establishing a training and development centre is essential as numbers on the programmes have grown by more than 400% in the last four years. The centre will expand opportunities for youth and young adults, including ICT skills in a secure environment.

“In a community with high crime and limited opportunities, access to these skills can completely change a young person’s future,” Naude said.

“We are very intentional about rarely giving handouts. If you focus on giving things, people can remain stuck, and the impetus for change and agency is not ignited. Instead, we focus on empowerment — helping people recognise their value and their ability to contribute.”

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As the Foundation expands, it is inviting businesses, corporate donors, and individuals to partner with the initiative — particularly to help fund and furnish the planned GROW CENTRE and to create opportunities through bursaries, learnerships, and internships.

Those interested in supporting the work of the ReStory Foundation can contact the organisation via email admin@restoryfoundation.co.za or by calling 061 817 5575.

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