Bongani Nkosi is making a significant difference in eMalahleni with his Cover My Book Foundation SA, which started as a mere response to one child’s humiliation.

Founded in January 2022, the foundation has remained committed and consistent in its simple yet powerful purpose, better summarised in three words: “Wrap. Protect. Educate.”

“The purpose of the initiative is to wrap, as it restores dignity and pride, protect, as it preserves educational materials, and educate since it supports uninterrupted learning,” Bongani said.

Through his Cover My Book Charity Drive, inspired by the plight of underprivileged learners who lack basic supplies to preserve their learning materials, the Ackerville resident said he felt the need to step in and help cover their books.

Since its inception, the foundation has supported schools such as Siyanqoba, Hlalanikahle, Khonzimfundo, Nkonjane, and Vuma Primary Schools, among others.

Recently, they extended their reach to schools such as Phakama, Mokgalitwa, Makgobana, and Khayalethu Primary School.

“The goal is to leave no stone unturned, focusing on critical gaps that are often overlooked but deeply impactful,” Bongani said.

Not only do they just cover books, but last year, the foundation launched its inaugural Higher Education Registration Drive at Elukhanyisweni High School.

Through the drive, learners got assistance with online university applications, with costs covered by the foundation.

“Our powerful testimony of impact is that one student assisted under this programme achieved four distinctions and secured acceptance at Wits University,” Bongani said.

However, though the foundation remains committed to being the change they want to see in the City of Coal, they still encounter obstacles that challenge their work.

“While many schools warmly receive us, some parents still show limited involvement, and in certain schools, our team is underestimated based on age, appearance, and youthfulness,” the founder said.

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“Despite this, we remain committed to its mission, grounded in resilience and purpose,” he added.

The change-driven foundation plans to continue to develop new concepts while strengthening its already existing two core pillars: Cover My Book Charity Drive and Higher Education Registration Drive.

They plan to continue with their clear mission to bridge educational gaps with dignity, accountability, and community involvement.

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Bongani commended all their sponsors for their continued commitment to supporting their initiative and for always making everything possible.

“We are only able to continue helping these learners all because of the great commitment shown by our sponsors each time. We are really grateful for their continued support,” he concluded.

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