Special Christmas messages shared between Bambisanani Founding Schools
There is a very special connection between St. Mary’s School, Menston in the UK and Mnyakanya School from South Africa. For the past 19 years the two schools have pioneered ways of ‘working together and learning together’ for the benefit of both communities that have gained international acclaim.
Please see the messages and videos below that highlight this very special relationship. The St. Mary’s video message is read by Chris Jose who visited South Africa this year and the Mnyakanya message is read by Bayanda Gcaba who visited Leeds last year.
Dear Friends at St. Mary’s Menston,
Warm greetings from the sun-kissed playgrounds of Mnyakanya High School in Kwa Zulu Natal.
This Christmas, we want to thank you for the countless moments of shared learning, laughter and cultural exchange that have brightened our classrooms school over the past 20 years. From shared art projects that side by side have decorated our school and community with Leeds’ iconic skyline and South African sunrises, to the spirited sports and music that we have shared that remind us how small our world truly is when curiosity leads the way.
May the holiday season bring you peace, comfort and a touch of South African sunshine to warm the chilly December evenings. We hope the festive lights twinkle as brightly as the stars and that every bite of mince pie is accompanied by the sweet taste of our shared memories.
Here's to another 20 years of friendship, discovery and crossing oceans.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas, a happy New Year and a 2026 that is filled with success, health and countless reasons to smile.
Warm regards
The Mnyakanya community
Kwa Zulu Natal
South Africa
Dear friends.
As this wonderful time of year approaches once again our thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you, your families and the whole school community and that of Thembimfundo Special School.
We give thanks for the 20 years of partnership, fellowship, learning and shared faith that we have enjoyed and will continue to enjoy with a united resolve to move into the new year with even more enthusiasm and determination.
May the Holy Family watch over this family and shower you with many blessings.
Happy Advent. Happy Christmas. Happy New Year.
With love from all at St Mary’s, Menston.
