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A visit of great impact for all: Newcastle College volunteers in South Africa

Students and staff from Newcastle College have recently returned from their third annual visit to South Africa as part of the Bambisanani Partnership. The team of 15 members, comprising three staff, Alex Watson, Brogan O’Connor and Paul Whitfield and 12 students, Candice Clark, Ellie Enright, Emily Drummond, Izzy Taylor-Aitken, Joe Tully, Kate Stephenson, Maria Graham, Oli Moore, Olivia Meldrum, Ruby Harkins, Sahib Basra and Taylor Maynard embarked on a 26-hour journey to Eshowe, South Africa. Over the course of three weeks, they volunteered in rural KwaZulu-Natal, using the power of sport to positively impact both their own lives and those of the children in the local schools and orphanages. 

The team worked at Matholamnyama Secondary School, Ngqamzana Primary School, Thembinfundu Special School and Doremi Day Centre for orphans and vulnerable children, all located in KwaZulu-Natal. Engaging with children aged 1-18, they hosted sport coaching sessions, leadership activities, reading sessions and sports festivals. All sessions were attended by a total of 894 South African young children and they fostered skills in leadership, communication, team building, and confidence. 

Olivia Meldrum, a Level 3 Sport Coaching and Development student, reflected, “You think you are going there to teach – but in the end it’s the people, the place, and the moments that teach you the most. We came to coach – and left with full hearts and unforgettable memories.” 

Emily Drummond, a Level 4 Airport and Aviation student, added, “This visit for me has been so life changing and humbling, seeing how people truly live in rural areas has been very eye opening, I have enjoyed every moment and have made friends and memories I will never forget.” 

The team began their stay with two days at Doremi Day Care Centre, where they were greeted with wonderful beaming smiles, loud singing and energetic dancing to What A Wonderful Day and Mango Tree. Once the dancing had finished the students spent time reading with the students, through books fundraised and collected by nine-year-old Althea Dickinson from York, playing sports such as netball and football and getting to know the young children through games and conversations. When the time came to leave after the second day, it was the first of many emotional goodbyes and experiences for the team. A better and more impactful introduction to South Africa would not be possible.

Over the weekend, the team participated in a 5k Colour Run at Gratton School in Eshowe and visited Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve to see wildlife in its natural habitat and learn about animal conservation.    

During the second week, the group returned to Ngqamzana Primary School, a year after their previous visit. They spent a day with each grade (3-7) and were treated to an impressive and emotional ceremony on Friday. The entire school performed traditional dances and songs, and Newcastle College student Oli Moore and staff member Brogan O’Connor gave moving speeches on behalf of the group. 

Oli Moore, a Level 3 Sport and Exercise Student proudly said “From everyone at Newcastle College, a massive thank-you to every single one of you for taking part in all of our coaching sessions that we have delivered for you. Every single one of those smiles and laughs that you have shown us throughout every single day that we have been here will stay in our hearts forever. It has been a really amazing moment for each and every single one of us to see each and every one of you every day smiling and laughing so thank-you very much, we really appreciate you.” 

Paul Whitfield, Sport Lecturer at Newcastle College added: “The Ngqamzana Primary School surprised me with the emotion that I felt helping the NCG students coach the Primary children. It was a very successful week with all the children having a great time and the coaches really enjoying it whilst putting on fun engaging sports sessions. It was great watching them improve as coaches and all make friendships that will last a lifetime. The closing ceremony was so special, it was clear to see the positive effect that the Bambisanani Partnership has on this school as their songs and dances were amazing, it was clear they had a put a lot of effort into them.” 

Miss Ntanzi, the project co-ordinator from Ngqamzana summed up her thoughts on the partnership and its impact saying “From 2023 to date we are very delighted about the Newcastle College visit. Our learners are exposed in inter-cultural activities; we learn a lot of skills and our learners are exposed in different games that help them to be fit and healthy. It helps learners to listen, communicate and respond positively to any situation they are faced with. It helps them to be disciplined and tolerant to one another. Our learners are enjoying interacting with the UK students in a relaxed, friendly and supportive environment. As an under resourced school, we are very happy with this partnership which helps our learners gain confidence and love to come to school. Since the start of this initiative the school enrolment has improved and absenteeism has dropped.”  

On the Saturday, the team joined forces with the group from St. Mary's School, Menston, at Thembimfundo Special School. The day started with a morning wake up shake up with some dances to to "Cha Cha Slide," "Chu Chu Wa," and “Superman”. The UK students then facilitated an adapted Sports Festival involving 10 activities, including javelin throw, parachute games, and boccia. The event was a tremendous success with considerable learning for all involved. During the course of the year, the Bambisanani Partnership has worked closely with Thembinfundo to bring clean water to the school for drinking and sanitation.

The final week was spent at Matholamnyama Secondary School before returning to Durban to start our long journey back to the UK. On Monday morning, the Newcastle team met 30 young learners who they would be working with throughout the week and got to work teaching them leadership skills through coaching sessions and workshops. The young people from both countries worked closely together, hand in hand, until Wednesday morning, when the South African young learners took centre stage and delivered a very successful Sports Festival to 60 learners from their local primary school. It was a proud and emotional day for all involved.    

Mr. Ngeleka, principal at Matholamnyama Secondary School stated “Our learners have gained a lot from your students and we pray and hope for this partnership to continue for a number of years”. 

The journey back to our accommodation in Eshowe that Wednesday Afternoon was one filled with a sense of pride and fulfilment. The team exchanged stories, photos and videos whilst also listening to music and singing along. The smiles on their faces and tears in their eyes clearly showing the sense of accomplishment they felt and the memories they had made. That evening the team were hosted an award ceremony, presenting each student with their own award based on their visit.  

Brogan O’Connor, Enrichment and Development Manager at Newcastle College and Bambisanani Trustee, summarised the visit: “You have good weeks at work and then there is this. The work of both Newcastle College and The Bambisanani Partnership continues to amaze me as it continually raises the bar and goes from strength to strength. The achievements made by UK and South African learners over the past 18 days are nothing short of remarkable and would not be possible without the continued hard work and dedication of so many people. The memories made, skills and qualities improved and friendships formed will stay with our students and staff forever, it has been truly life changing for all involved, I return to Newcastle with 12 students with an increased global understanding, cultural awareness and a student experience unlike any other. The impact on all involved, from both countries, is truly amazing.” 

 
 
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University of Leeds Team Recognised with Award for Global Impact

Bambisanani Partnership collaborators at the University of Leeds have recently been recognised with a special award for ‘Global Impact’ for their Gryphons Abroad project.

The annual Partnership Awards at the university acknowledge staff, groups and programmes which contribute to making sure students have outstanding, positive and impactful experiences during their time at Leeds. The award for global impact celebrates initiatives with an international and intercultural focus.

The university of Leeds team were nominated for the award by a student volunteer (Tracy Campbell) who participated in their 2024 visit to South Africa. 2,749 nominations were submitted for the awards in total with Gryphons Abroad winning their faculty round (Professional Services) before scooping the University wide award at a gala dinner last month.

Last summer, a team of 7 students and 3 staff (including Tracy) delivered cycling clinics, sport and leadership across 4 fantastic weeks in Kwa Zulu Natal. Their work supported the ongoing interventions of the Bambisanani Partnership & KZN Cycling in the region. Across the four weeks, the team engaged with 12 partner organisations in the UK and South Africa, mobilising 1,387 participations in sport and cycling. Students created memories and friendships, as well as developing transferable graduate level skills. The staff team provided 486 hours of training and support to the students. You can read more about Tracy’s experience as part of the Gryphons Abroad team here.

“We were absolutely thrilled to be nominated by one of our students for the Global Impact Award. Since our Gryphons Abroad project started in 2016, more than 100 staff and students have been part of the programme, enabling 8,000 young people to learn to ride and maintain bikes in rural South Africa. Each individual has contributed in their own way, and we know from experience the lasting impact sport can have on the lives of our students. This award recognises that impact as well as the impact in South Africa.” Suzzi Garnett, Gryphons Abroad project coordinator, University of Leeds.

Tracy Campbell

David Geldart from the Bambisanani Partnership added, “As a member of the University of Leeds Alumni I receive regular updates regarding the amazing innovative work that the university is engaged in internationally so this really is an outstanding achievement to be selected above all others to receive this award. Huge thanks must go to Andy Lockwood and Suzzie Garnet who have led on this amazing work.”

The team are hoping for another win this awards season with Tracy also shortlisted for the ‘Great volunteer’ Award at the Yorkshire University Sports Awards this month. The Gryphons Abroad project will celebrate its 10-year anniversary in 2026 and the team are already planning something special to recognise all of the staff and students who have contributed to the project's ongoing success.

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An afternoon of purpose at UYARE

By the UYARE at Tharavadu Team, proud supporters of The Bambisanani Partnership:

UYARE recently had the honour of hosting another unforgettable charity lunch in support of the Bambisanani Partnership – an incredible UK-based initiative fostering education and leadership through sport in South Africa.

With over 130 guests joining us on the rooftop, the event was a heartwarming success.

Thanks to the generosity and collective spirit of our guests, organisers, and sponsors, we proudly raised around £5,500, directly benefiting over 300 children in South Africa. Every pound raised is a step towards education, empowerment, and lasting change.

A huge thank you goes out to:

👏🏼 The Bambisanani Partnership team for making this possible.

👏🏼 Our valued suppliers for donating drinks that kept spirits high.

👏🏼 Our dedicated UYARE and Tharavadu staff, who gave up their leisure time to support such a meaningful cause.

👏🏼 All those supporters and sponsors who provided auction and raffle prizes.

We are proud to stand alongside amazing organisations and our wonderful community in creating real impact. Together, we made a difference.

David Geldart, Founder and CEO of the charity said: “This has become an annual event and it is so special. So much goes into the organisation; I have nothing but praise for the small army of people involved. The kindness and generosity of Siby Jose and his wonderful team are quite remarkable. This is the third time that they have hosted this event; twice at their award winning Tharavadu restaurant and now at their new and absolutely amazing Uyare restaurant. They have a real and genuine connection with our charity and nothing is too much trouble in ensuring that everyone has a great time. My special thanks to Catherine Chattoe and David Farmer for making it all happen. Thanks also to all those who volunteered on the day, to those that donated raffle and auction items and of course to all those who bought a ticket to attend. There was a great atmosphere with lots of fun and camaraderie; good food and good friends does indeed equal good times.  A good time was had by all and much needed funds were raised to ensure that our work in South Africa continues to make a difference.”

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Newcastle College Team Triumphs in Coast 2 Coast Cycle Raising £2,227 for The Bambisanani Partnership

Another year and another epic endurance challenge successfully completed by Newcastle College to raise much needed funds for the Bambisanani Partnership.

A dedicated team of eight staff members from Newcastle College, supported by award winning Cycling company, Saddle Skedaddle, recently completed the famous Coast 2 Coast Cycle across England in 2 days. Undertaken in glaring heat, the team cycled from Whitehaven by the Irish Sea to Tynemouth by the North Sea, raising £2,227 for the Bambisanani Partnership in the process.

The team completed 150 miles and an impressive 29,000 feet of elevation. It involved approximately 7 hours of cycling each day.

The team was made up of Brogan O’Connor, Simone Smith, Stephanie Cooper, James Dale, Paul Whitfield, Jonathan Rees, Liam Carr and Joe Adams.

Brogan O'Connor, Enrichment and Development Manager at the college and trustee of the Bambisanani Partnership, expressed her pride in the team's achievement, stating, "I am incredibly proud to be a part of the team of eight who have completed the Coast 2 Coast cycle in support of the Bambisanani Partnership. This journey has been more than just a physical challenge; it has been a testament to the power of the community and support of the Bambisanani Partnership at Newcastle College. The Bambisanani has been close to my heart for many years, and to help raise the profile and funds for the charity through these annual challenges is truly fulfilling. I am grateful for the support of everyone involved – from the team of NCG cyclists to sponsors and supporters – whose dedication has made this achievement possible. Together, we've made a meaningful impact, and I look forward to continuing the annual challenges well into the future”

David Geldart from the partnership added, “Newcastle College is a key member of the Bambisanani Partnership and under Brogan’s leadership they undertake significant fundraising challenges every year to further the work of the charity. Their dedication and commitment are exemplary in all aspects of their work. A team of students and staff, led by Brogan, head out to South Africa next week to deliver a range of Bambisanani programmes and projects in challenging conditions and we wish them all the very best in their pioneering work using the power of sport and education to change the lives.”

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Dr. Poppy Bhengu: Bambisanani Supporter Achieves Academic Dream

The Bambisanani Partnership proudly celebrates one of its own – Dr. Poppy Bhengu, who has just obtained her Doctorate in Philosophy of Sports and Exercise Science. At just 35, Dr. Bhengu has overcome barriers, broken stereotypes, and become a beacon of hope for many young black girls across South Africa and beyond.

Dr. Poppy Bhengu:

Raised in a deeply cultural family and community where girls were traditionally groomed to be wives and taught that their place was in the kitchen, Poppy dared to dream differently. In a time when little girls imagined themselves walking down the aisle in white gowns, Poppy imagined herself walking across a graduation stage in a red gown, the prestigious symbol of a PhD.

Achieving such an academic milestone did not come easy, especially when balancing the many roles she plays: a young mother, a wife, a full-time employee, and a dedicated volunteer of the Bambisanani Partnership. Through this initiative, a powerful collaboration between South Africa and the UK that uses sport to promote education, leadership, and social cohesion in rural communities, Poppy has been instrumental in transforming lives while working tirelessly toward her own dream.

Her journey was filled with obstacles and personal sacrifices, but she never allowed her circumstances to define her future. Instead, she used them as fuel to push harder, to go further, and to rise higher. She wanted to show young girls that it’s possible, she believed that if you can dream it, you can achieve it.

As she steps into this new chapter, Dr. Bhengu hopes that this qualification will not only open new doors for her personally and professionally but also strengthen her role within Bambisanani. She envisions herself drawing more resources and forging new partnerships to expand the organisation’s reach and deepen its impact in underserved communities.

Her story is more than a personal victory, or a dream obtained; it is a powerful message to every young black girl from a township, village, or rural area, that their dreams are valid, their voices matter, and that they, too, can rewrite the narrative.

The Bambisanani Partnership salutes you, Dr. Poppy Bhengu. We are incredibly proud of your achievement and the inspiring journey you have walked to get here. You embody resilience, vision, and leadership, and you are living proof that dreams deferred are not dreams denied.

David Geldart, Founder of the Bambisanani Partnership, added: “I have watched Poppy’s amazing journey with great admiration. She is a most remarkable person who will inspire young people, both in South Africa and the UK, to dare to dream big and then do all that is necessary to fulfil that dream despite any obstacles. She is a fantastic member of our team who believes that anything is possible ….and proves it time and time again!”

Congratulations, Doctor. The red gown suits you beautifully, and the world is waiting for your next chapter.

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Partnership with KZN Cycling goes from strength to strength

The pioneering Cycling Programme devised in partnership with Bambisanani, University of Leeds and KZN Cycling has gained international acclaim for its impact. More than 8,000 young people from the remote, rural Nkandla region have now been taught to ride and maintain bikes.

The Bambisanani/KZN Cycling partnership is transforming lives through cycling. Youngsters from the Nkandla region are now involved in competitive cycling as a result of this programme. Talented cyclists are emerging and are being given opportunities to participate in the KZN Cycling Community Series.

Alec Lenferna, CEO of KZN Cycling explained:

“The KZN Cycling Community Series is a new series of short course mountain bike races that was created to allow for maximum participation by young and not so young alike – and whether they are serious bike riders, or just people that want to become involved. The aim is to stage events in areas that have been traditionally under serviced by event organisers, and while the core focus of the events is on learners in local schools under the age of 19 years old, there was also an open category event for all members of the community that have wanted to take part. Apart from ensuring that more cycling events are staged across the different districts in the province, the series has also allowed for the KZN Cycling High Performances coaches to be able to identify any potential talented riders that may be out there that have as yet not come to the fore.

Despite the thumping rain in the lead up and intermittent bad weather on the day, the final event in the KZN Cycling Community Series was able to be staged at the Umhlathuze Sports Complex in Richards Bay. Even though the fields and surrounds were wet and muddy, the staff and course designers were still able to set up a race venue and circuit that was challenging enough to test the riders at the front of the packs, while also providing an element of fun for the not so serious contenders that joined the event. Sixty riders from the programme in the area were selected to take part in the event, including twelve riders from the Nkandla Hub. These are amongst the riders that have shown ongoing progress and development in the area, and who are now “on the radar” for more involvement.

This was a final event that was a fitting culmination of this new series that has now been established, and will be grown and staged again going forward. The primary difference in the new series will be that the format will allow for a final event with the best riders from all 11 districts able to win a spot to compete, and this will be one of the cornerstone elements of the progression elements for the 25/26 time period. I don’t doubt that the ‘Nkandla kids’ will be in the mix.”

David Geldart, CEO of the Bambisanani Partnership added, “The partnership with KZN Cycling is having remarkable impact on so many levels. Together we have brought cycling, with all its opportunities, to over 8,000 young people. As a means of transport, the bikes transform the 2 hours walk to school leading to improved punctuality, attendance and academic achievement. The programme is now providing opportunities for youngsters to participate in competitive cycling and from this we are ‘discovering’ some really talented cyclists who can potentially access High Performance Pathways. It is only a matter of time before one of our cyclists from Nkandla is on the podium! Huge thanks must go to Alec and all the team at KZN Cycling and indeed to Andy Lockwood and Suzzi Garnett from The University of Leeds for pioneering some outstanding work in area where bikes were rarely seen three years ago!

 
 
 
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Global Impact Award Nomination

Congratulations to the fantastic team of students and staff from the University of Leeds (UoL) who have been nominated for a prestigious Global Impact Award.

The University of Leeds is a key member of the Bambisanani Partnership team that has gained international acclaim for it work using sport and education to create social change in one of South Africa’s most remote regions. For over ten years, the university has developed life changing programmes through its student volunteer programme in South Africa – Gryphons Abroad.

The university has pioneered cycling and leadership programmes that have had a significant on those involved. The remarkable cycling programme delivered in partnership with KZN Cycling has seen more than 8,000 young people learn to ride and maintain bikes. Each year, hundreds of primary school learners develop leadership skills through a unique sports programme delivered by UoL and students and staff.

The Global Impact category of award celebrates members of the UoL community who work with a global focus. Nominations recognise groups or initiatives which have actively engaged in the promotion and maintenance of international intercultural educational activities.

The award winners will be announced at a ceremony on 6th May 2025.

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Moving through March Fundraiser

Another March has come and gone and many hours of exercise have been achieved to raise much needed funds for the Bambisanani Partnership.

The Leeds Trinity University team

Individuals and teams from families and work colleagues have enjoyed the challenge of moving as much as possible in March 2025. Individuals and teams paid to participate with some also gaining additional sponsorship.

Based on 10 points for each hour of exercise, individuals and teams set targets to achieve. Activities including, Walking, Running, Pilates, Yoga, Swimming, Cycling, Gym sessions and Team Sports have all made a contribution to personal fitness and even provided competition between individuals and teams. 20 people participated in total raising more than £500 for the charity.

The prize for the most hours achieved went  to Holly Pearson, a member of the Leeds Trinity University Sport Science Department. Congratulations Holly. A close second place went to Sheila King, recently retired from Trinity but who always has Bambisanani close to her heart. Sarah Todd the department head was delighted with her team's success and contribution.

The Pounder family team

Organiser and Bambisanani Partnership Trustee Barbara Pounder said, “Everyone who has taken up the challenge has supported the continuing work of the partnership in a really positive way. Thank you to everyone, young and old who has supported the Partnership and found just how much exercise they can do in 31 days.  Brilliant effort everyone; keep the activity going!  This is a great ‘Win, Win’ situation: promoting active lifestyles and raising money to support our projects in South Africa. Next year we aim to have even more people involved.” 

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St. Mary’s Menston Bambisanani Fundraising Easter 2025

Congratulations to Sophia and the Stow Family

Sophia, a Year 7 student at St. Mary’s Menston won the Bambisanani Easter Card Competiton.

Sophia's card will be sent to our friends in South Africa and our supporters of The Bambisanani Partnership.

Sophia was presented with a Lindt Easter Egg for her winning design. Mr Nield and Miss Wood delivered the good news to Sophia.

 
 

Congratulations to the Stow family who won the Bambisanani Easter Raffle.

A BIG THANK YOU to everyone who has supported our recent fundraising activities.

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Bambisanani Partnership teams up with Kitaid to bring football kits to South Africa

Bambisanani has begun a new partnership with the charity Kitaid. Founded by Derrick Williams MBE, Kitaid has, for the past 25 years, been collecting football kits from football clubs and individuals to then distribute to football loving children and adults in some of the poorest parts of the world.

Bambisanani team members David Farmer, Catherine Chattoe, Barbara Pounder and Brogan O’Connor pictured with Kit Aid founder, Derrick Williams

Recently, Bambisanani team members David Farmer, Catherine Chattoe, Barbara Pounder and Brogan O’Connor drove down to the Kitaid base in Hemel Hempstead in a minibus and collected 30 boxes containing over 1,000 pieces of football kit. These will now be sorted and taken out to South Africa in June 2025 by students from St. Mary’s School, Menston and Newcastle College.

Both charities have committed to working together which will mean that kit will be taken to South Africa annually by Bambisanani student volunteers.

This new Bambisanani venture was organised by David Farmer, Deputy Headteacher at St. Joseph’s Primary School in Pudsey who said:  "With this collaboration with Bambisanani and Kit Aid we have put in place a legacy for a thousand football kits to be delivered annually to South Africa.  This undoubtedly will bring many smiles to many young people and promote their sporting aspirations." 

David Geldart from the partnership added “The success of our work in South Africa is totally based on shared values and effective partnerships with others. This initiative is just brilliant; bringing two likeminded charities together.  We have seen over the years the tremendous impact of providing sports kits to children and young adults in one of the poorest parts of South Africa. It would be impossible to overstate the importance of football in the Zulu communities where we work.  This is about far more than football shirts – it’s about connecting people through the power of sport and making a difference in the world. Many thanks to Derrick and the team for making this happen.”

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