Limpopo cousins start club to nurture children’s love for reading
The Vahluri Reading Club in Ga-Mashashane currently has 38 children from Gr 3 to 7 who meet on Saturdays between 10:00 and 12:00.
POLOKWANE – Cousins Bianca Ledwaba and Gapenyana Gapi Mphahlele are growing a love for reading in children through their reading club, the Vahluri Reading Club.
They founded the club in 2012 in Ga Mashashane, motivated by the desire to provide children with the tools to dream, learn, and grow.
They say they are firm believers that by investing in children’s education and instilling a love for reading, they contribute not only to their personal development but also to the overall enrichment of their community.
“Observing the dearth of resources that allow kids to dream and aspire to more, we felt compelled to take action. The idea of establishing a reading club began as a simple yet powerful dream – a dream to ignite the passion for reading, encourage children to dream big, and expose them to a world beyond their immediate surroundings,” explained Mphahlele.
Ledwaba added that they firmly believe that by introducing children to the joy of reading and fostering a love for literature, they lay the groundwork for them to explore a myriad of possibilities.
“Our hope is that as they grow, they will carry this love of learning and exploration into the wider world. We aim to create an environment where children not only pick up books but also engage with meaningful content, diverting their attention from potential street activities,” said Ledwaba.
The duo indicated that this is only the beginning of their journey and they are optimistic that the children in their club will in turn become contributors and mentors, ploughing back into their community the knowledge and experiences gained from the broader world.
The term ‘Vahluri’ means ‘winners’ in Xitsonga and the name embodies their vision for members of the reading club to develop a winning mentality. The club currently has 38 children from Gr 3 to 7.
Some of the challenges they face include financial constraints as they operate from personal funds which restrict the club’s capacity to acquire more resources, expand activities, and reach a larger audience.
Another challenge is the shortage of storybooks and stationery which impedes their ability to offer a diverse and engaging reading experience for the children, they said.
“While we were fortunate to receive a sponsorship for the venue, Mash Fun Events and Entertainment, book gifts, and catering during the recent Booknic, ongoing dependency on external support may limit the club’s autonomy and potential for growth,” said Mphahlele.
They also require facilitator training as their volunteers lack formal training in working with children who face reading challenges.
Training programmes would enhance their skills and enable them to address the unique needs of each child, fostering a more supportive learning environment.
“Despite these challenges, the recent successes, such as the sponsored Booknic, demonstrate the club’s potential. We remain hopeful that with increased support and training opportunities, the book club can overcome these obstacles and continue making a positive impact on children’s reading experiences,” said Ledwaba.
The cousins are appreciative of dedicated volunteering facilitators Shibe Monyamane, Matshidiso Mokonyamana, Tebogo Ledwaba, Tebatjo Boroto, Victoria Mokwatlo, Lebogang, Matlatle, Kgaugelo Matlatle, Matshidiso Sefole, Mphethi Mashao, and Lebone Mphahlele for their selfless contribution to the reading club. Vahluri Reading Club is open to all interested individuals.
Meetings are on Saturdays at Paradice Creche Ga-Mashashane, located next to Tlakale High School, between 10:00 and 12:00.
