The Johannesburg Society for the Blind (JSB) proudly marks an extraordinary milestone – 100 years of service, empowerment, and advocacy for blind and visually impaired individuals across South Africa.

Established in 1926, JSB has spent a century transforming lives through rehabilitation programmes, education, skills development, residential care, and community support.

For generations, the organisation has remained committed to its vision: To assist the blind to walk unafraid.

Over the years, JSB has become a haven and development centre for visually impaired youth and adults, equipping beneficiaries with tools for independent living, academic success, employment readiness, and social inclusion.

Today, the organisation continues to provide a wide range of services.

Services offered

• Residential accommodation

• Educational support and matric assistance

• Braille literacy and accessible learning resources

• Computer and skills training

• Performing arts and sports programmes

• Orientation and mobility support

• Rehabilitation and independent living programmes

As part of the centenary celebrations, the organisation is launching several impactful fundraising campaigns aimed at strengthening services and improving facilities for current and future beneficiaries.

JSB centenary campaigns

• R100 for 100 years: A community-driven fundraising campaign encouraging individuals, businesses, and supporters to donate R100 in honour of JSB’s 100 years of impact.

• 100 beds for 100 years: This campaign seeks to improve residential living conditions by sourcing and replacing beds for visually impaired residents.

• 100 paints for 100 years: A facilities restoration initiative aimed at repainting and revitalising the organisation’s buildings and living spaces.

• 100 meals for 100 years: A campaign focused on ensuring food security and nutritional support for beneficiaries residing at the organisation.

Speaking on the milestone, CEO Vangile Nyamathe described the centenary as more than a celebration, but a reflection of resilience, dignity, inclusion, and hope.

“Reaching 100 years is a reminder of every life touched, every challenge overcome, and every opportunity created for visually impaired individuals who simply needed someone to believe in them,” said Nyamathe.

The celebrations will also shine a spotlight on the transformative power of the arts, education, and sport in restoring confidence and independence within the visually impaired community.

JSB is calling on corporates, stakeholders, government departments, and members of the public to partner with the organisation as it enters its next century of impact.

For donations and partnerships, contact Dineo Khumalo on dineokhumalo@jhbsocblind.org or bydineo@gmail.com. Alternatively, call her on 071 229 36408 or 081 612 4267.