NEWS
Bambisanani Partnership teams learn and make a difference in South Africa
The 20th anniversary year of the Bambisanani Partnership has seen four groups from St. Mary’s School, Menston, the University of Leeds, Newcastle College and Newcastle Sixth Form College visit South Africa.
Across more than two months, 44 students and 11 staff worked with 29 primary, secondary and special schools, reaching more than 4,400 young people through a range of sport, education, leadership and literacy programmes.
All Bambisanani projects are ‘needs led’, with South African schools and communities involved in their development and delivery. At the heart of the partnership is a shared belief in the power of sport and education to connect young people and enable them to ‘work together and learn together’.
St. Mary’s School, Menston
The partnership began 20 years ago through a collaboration between St. Mary’s School and Mnyakanya School in Nkandla. The relationship between the two schools has continued to grow despite the distance between them, creating opportunities for friendship, international collaboration and reciprocal learning.
This year’s visit to Mnyakanya formed part of special 20th anniversary celebrations organised by members of the Zulu community, reflecting the spirit of Ubuntu (shared humanity ‘I am because we are’) and the unique bond between the two schools.
Students from both countries worked together on the Bambisanani Leadership Through Sport programme, culminating in student-led Sports and Reading Festivals for 120 pupils from Ntolwane Primary School. The St. Mary’s team also delivered its annual Athletics Festival for more than 200 children from 10 local primary schools, as well as a Sports Day at Thembinfundo Special School alongside students from Newcastle College and Newcastle Sixth Form College.
A visit to uMlalazi Day Centre and Creche, run by the Zulufadder Children’s Trust, was another important part of the St. Mary’s programme. The partnership has worked closely with the centre for 20 years, providing students with the opportunity to learn from staff, including Popi Buthelezi, who has dedicated her life to supporting children affected by HIV/AIDS.
St. Mary’s teacher Charlotte Wood said the students had been “a credit to the school and Bambisanani Partnership”, adding that they had developed valuable skills in leadership, teamwork, resilience and communication.
University of Leeds and KZN Cycling
The University of Leeds has been a key member of the Bambisanani Partnership for more than a decade and has played an important role in developing the internationally recognised Bambisanani Cycling programme with KZN Cycling. This programme has seen more than 14,000 young people being taught how to ride and maintain bikes.
Increasing girls’ participation in cycling has become a key priority. During this year’s visit, the team worked closely with girls and women in local communities to better understand the barriers to participation and explore ways to address them.
KZN Cycling appointed Noxolo as a female development officer, coach, mentor and role model, while Dr Poppy Bhengu, a Bambisanani volunteer and researcher from the University of Western Cape, supported engagement with local communities.
Led by Suzzi Garnett, the team delivered 20 cycling clinics across six schools, involving 819 young people. Most notably, girls accounted for 57% of participants during the visit, compared with just 5% in the preceding months.
The partnership will continue to research and develop approaches to improve girls’ participation and retention in cycling. During the visit, the university team and KZN Cycling also received the prestigious International Physical Education and Sport Charity of the Year Award on behalf of the partnership.
Dr Poppy Bhengu said the experience demonstrated the importance of “collaboration, listening and understanding the communities we seek to serve”, particularly when addressing the barriers affecting girls’ participation.
The university team also delivered a successful Sports and Leadership Festival involving three primary schools in Eshowe.
Newcastle College
Newcastle College has been involved in the partnership for several years, with lecturer and Bambisanani trustee Brogan O’Connor leading student groups to South Africa for the past four years.
This year, students and staff spent three weeks working with Matholamnyama Secondary School, Ngqamzana Primary School, Thembinfundo Special School and uMlalazi Day Centre and Creche. Through sports coaching, leadership workshops and literacy sessions, they engaged with 846 children.
Brogan described the experience as “transformative for all involved”, while students highlighted the impact of learning from the resilience, positivity and enthusiasm of the young people they met.
Barry Rizza, Enrichment and Development Manager at Newcastle College, said it had been particularly rewarding to see students who had never worked together develop into a confident and supportive team, demonstrating leadership, adaptability and professionalism in an unfamiliar environment.
Newcastle Sixth Form College
This year also marked the first South African visit for Newcastle Sixth Form College. Supported by Brogan O’Connor, 12 students and two members of staff, Ashley Knowles and Lyanne Fellows, worked with schools and communities in Eshowe and the Nkandla region.
Using sport, leadership, literacy and education, the group helped create opportunities for young people in both countries to learn from one another.
The team supported sports activities involving an impressive 1,391 South African children, while 12 young people took part in leadership activities, 25 in reading and literacy sessions and around 150 in activities across other areas of the curriculum.
The group worked with Gratton School, Vumanhlamvu Primary School, Thembinfundo Special School and Magqama Secondary School.
For the students, adapting to teaching and coaching in a different environment was a significant part of the experience. Charlie Burgess described the growth in his confidence as he worked with younger children, while Arian Cheikh Daoud highlighted the enthusiasm of the South African pupils and the way sport brought students together.
One of the highlights was a joint Sports Day at Thembinfundo Special School, where students from Newcastle Sixth Form College, Newcastle College and St. Mary’s delivered 10 activities, including javelin, parachute games and boccia. Around 250 students took part before the day ended with singing, dancing and an awards presentation.
The visit also gave the UK teams the opportunity to see the progress of a major Bambisanani project, developed with the local community, which has provided clean water, toilets and showers at the school.
Ashley Knowles reflected on the experience, saying that the enthusiasm of the young people demonstrated the importance of providing genuine opportunities to learn, engage and succeed. She also emphasised that the learning was mutual, with the visiting students returning home having gained new skills, perspectives and relationships.
Celebrating 20 years of partnership
The four visits have demonstrated once again the lasting impact of the Bambisanani Partnership and the opportunities created when schools, colleges, universities and communities work together across international borders.
David Geldart, Founder and Volunteer CEO of the Bambisanani Partnership, praised the students and staff involved, highlighting the commitment of the partner institutions to providing experiences that cannot be replicated in the classroom.
He said the visits help young people from both countries “see the world differently, and indeed their place in it”.
Since 2006 more than 44,500 young people and 62 schools, colleges and universities from both countries have participated in the various Bambisanani programmes and projects. As the partnership enters its third decade, it continues to demonstrate the power of sport, education and international friendship to create opportunities, develop confidence and bring communities together.
Related articles:
St. Mary’s Students Make a Lasting Impact in South Africa (25/09/2026)
Newcastle Sixth Form College students make an impact in South Africa (23/09/2026)
The University of Leeds in South Africa: A year of significant impact and recognition (16/09/2026)
Newcastle College: changing the lives of young people in Newcastle and South Africa (26/06/2026)
St. Mary’s Students Make a Lasting Impact in South Africa
The Bambisanani Partnership has gained international recognition for its pioneering work in one of South Africa’s poorest regions. Using sport as a catalyst, the partnership promotes education, health, global citizenship and leadership, creating meaningful opportunities for young people both in the UK and South Africa.
This summer marked one of the multi-award-winning charity’s most ambitious volunteering projects in its 20-year history. Students and staff from St. Mary’s School, Menston, the University of Leeds, Newcastle College and Newcastle Sixth Form recently returned from South Africa, where they worked both independently and collaboratively to extend and develop the work of the partnership.
Vision
‘To use sport as a catalyst to promote education, health, global citizenship and leadership in both the UK and South Africa’
Leadership Through Sport
Following eighteen months of preparation, planning and fundraising, sixteen students from St. Mary’s embarked on a life-changing visit to South Africa. Their mission was to deliver a Leadership Through Sport programme to students at Mnyakanya High School, located in the remote and rural Nkandla region of South Africa.
This year’s visit was led by Charlotte Wood, with support from Catherine Chattoe, Amy Marsh and Richard Giles.
The student team comprised:
Emilia Armitage, Juliana Beaumont, Freya Birch, Joseph Black, Ursula Burrows, Matthew Chamberlain, Libby Connor, Eloise Dawson, Esther Dooling, Thomas Eager, Lucia Flatman, Bethany Jackson, Evie Johnson, Annabel McClelland, Mollie Rayner and Alicia Thorning.
The visit began with the group travelling into rural Nkandla, where St. Mary’s students organised and delivered the Bambisanani International Athletics competition involving ten local South African primary schools. The event was a fantastic opportunity for the UK students to develop their leadership and organisational skills while working alongside young people from the local community.
The athletic performances were particularly memorable, with the student leaders amazed by the impressive times and distances achieved by the primary school students, many of whom were running barefoot on challenging and uneven ground.
Empowering Young Leaders
After four intensive days of coaching in tennis, tag rugby and rounders, thirty students from Mnyakanya High School had developed the confidence, skills and leadership experience needed to take on a challenge of their own.
The students successfully organised and hosted a spectacular Sports and Reading Festival for more than 120 children from Ntolwane Primary School. This was a wonderful example of the sustainable impact of the Bambisanani Partnership, with young people passing on their knowledge and skills to others within their community.
The St. Mary’s students also delivered lessons across a range of curriculum areas. Staff and students at Mnyakanya High School took part in engaging lessons in Art, Maths, Biology and Geography, providing opportunities for cultural exchange and shared learning.
Celebrating Achievement
A special presentation ceremony and partnership celebration provided an opportunity to recognise the incredible
achievements of the young people involved. Students from Mnyakanya High School received their well-deserved Leadership Awards, recognising the commitment, confidence and skills they had developed throughout the programme.
Students from both Mnyakanya High School and Ntolwane Primary School were also presented with a series of annual awards, including awards from the John Paul II Foundation for Sport and the Lawrie McCauley Awards for achievements in football and creative writing.
The ceremony was a fitting celebration of the hard work, dedication and achievements of the students and highlighted the lasting impact of the partnership.
A Special Day at Thembimfundo Special School
In collaboration with Newcastle College and Newcastle Sixth Form, the St. Mary’s team also visited Thembimfundo Special School, which supports children with a wide range of disabilities. Together, the volunteers organised a sports day filled with activities including dancing, high jump, boccia, javelin and parachute games.
The experience proved incredibly moving for everyone involved. One student reflected:
“It was moving, rewarding and insightful to see how the children took part, and to see how genuinely happy they were to have us there. A particular success was the parachute activity, where the joy on their faces was incredible, this is a day that I will never forget.”
The day demonstrated the power of sport to bring people together, create joy and provide opportunities for every child to participate.
Creating Magical Memories
The final part of the visit saw the St. Mary’s students volunteering at uMlalazi Day Centre and Crèche, a centre for orphans and vulnerable children run by the Zulufadder Children’s Trust.
This was a particularly magical experience for the group. The students brought stories to life using props and toys, creating memorable and engaging experiences for the children.
Highlights included acting out the popular story Going on a Bear Hunt, read by Catherine Chattoe, followed by a very special Teddy Bears’ Picnic.
The laughter, excitement and enthusiasm shared throughout the day created memories that will undoubtedly stay with the students for many years to come.
Reflections of the students and staff
“The experience has changed me in ways I never expected. It has strengthened my confidence and self-belief, broadened my perspective of the world and given me a greater sense of fulfilment.”
“Our ten days in South Africa were extraordinary – beautiful, joyful, funny and incredibly memorable. Every one of you brought something unique to the experience: kindness, courage, humour, energy, empathy, teamwork and leadership. I watched you face new challenges, overcome fears and grow in confidence, often without even realising it. One of the most remarkable moments was seeing you move from learners, to teachers, to leaders in just a few days. What happened at Mnyakanya wasn’t magic; it was the result of dedication, care, belief and hard work. Thank you for allowing me to share in such a wonderful experience. Keep smiling. Be good. Do good. Be amazing.”
“My time volunteering in South Africa was one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences I have ever had. Working with local schools and communities helped me develop confidence, valuable life skills and meaningful friendships, while experiencing a different culture and making a positive difference.”
“Before the Bambisanani team arrived my greatest fear was to express myself in English, but I’m feeling confident now. I learnt a lot about how to be a good leader. I’m so grateful of the opportunity that I got. I wish to say thanks to Bambisanani Partnership.”
“I can’t believe I have a friend overseas. That makes me feel important, and I was very proud to be awarded as an outstanding young leader. I hope that I will be a good future leader.”
“All the students who participated in the Bambisanani young leadership training are showing a great excitement and self-confidence. They had their first experience in communicating with people from another part of the world. They show a strong willingness to practise what they had been trained for. We as a school have a great confidence and hope to these young people .We hope that their experience in Bambisanani will change their lives forever.””
Developing Leaders for the Future
The visit to South Africa not only built friendships and maintained relationships between the UK and South Africa but it also increased employability skills of the students involved.Students' overall self-assessment increased from 64.8% before the visit to 89.1% afterwards — an improvement of 24.3 percentage points.
The largest reported gains were in leadership (+39 points), initiative (+33 points), communication (+27 points) and teamwork (+25 points). This provides strong evidence that the Bambisanani experience had a positive impact on students' confidence in their transferable skills.
The 2026 Bambisanani visit was a remarkable experience for everyone involved. Through sport, education, leadership and friendship, the students from St. Mary’s were able to make a positive difference while also developing skills and experiences that will remain with them for a lifetime.
The visit once again demonstrated the incredible power of the Bambisanani Partnership to connect communities, develop young leaders and inspire young people to believe that they can make a difference in the world.
Reflecting on the visit, group leader Charlotte Wood said: “In 2018, I was given the opportunity to go on my first Bambisanani visit. Fast forward eight years, three years of COVID when travel was not possible, and I have now completed my seventh visit.
Most people ask me if I get bored of going to the same place or whether it becomes repetitive. My answer is always the same: everyone I have the privilege of working with is unique, and no visit is ever the same.
I am incredibly thankful to have been given the opportunity to make a difference, not only to my own students but to hundreds of young people in South Africa.
The sixteen students who visited South Africa this year not only helped others but also grew as leaders themselves. The skills they developed through leadership, teamwork, resilience and communication will help them to achieve their goals in the future.
They were an absolute privilege to take and were a credit to St. Mary’s School and the Bambisanani Partnership. They truly embedded the values of the partnership throughout their visit.”
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.
Faith in the Bambisanani Partnership
It is 19 years ago since David Geldart proposed an ambitious partnership ‘of mutual benefit and shared responsibility’ between St. Mary’s School. Menston and Mnyakanya School from one of the most challenging regions of KwaZul-Natal in South Africa.
Using the power of sport and education this pioneering collaborative known as The Bambisanani Partnership (Bambisanani being the Zulu word meaning ‘working hand’) has grown to now include more than 60 schools, colleges and universities in both countries. Since 2006 no less than 34,000 young people have engaged in the partnerships various projects and programmes. The Bambisanani story with its remarkable impact has been highlighted at international conferences throughout the world including at the Sport for All Summit at the Vatican and in Greece for the International Olympic Association. The very special relationship between St. Mary’s and Mnyakanya remains at the heart of partnership.
Margaret Hattersley, Headteacher from St. Mary’s and the Bambisanani Partnership, Vice Chair said:
Margaret Hattersley
‘The Bambisanani Partnership sits at the heart of life at St Mary’s, Menston and has done over the last 19 years. Our school’s Mission recognises that the journey towards human flourishing, self-discovery and personal growth takes time and exposure to unique opportunities to draw out our many God-given gifts and talents. Since the formation of the Bambisanani Partnership, so many St Mary’s students and staff have travelled to South Africa as part of the partnership which has contributed to this sense of common mission and purpose. The experiences and international connections have enabled our young people to see the world beyond our school grounds, strengthen their leadership skills, and shape them as an individual so they can contribute to the common good of society and the beauty of the world. The friendships forged, ‘working hand in hand’, have inspired our young people at St Mary’s and in South Africa in so many different ways. For some it has inspired their future career choices, for others it has created lasting friendships across nations and for others it has sparked a charitable initiative. Whatever the personal or community impact, the partnership is deeply valued and cherished by us all as it changes lives for the better and reminds us that we are all in communion with each other whatever our background or personal story. At St Mary’s, we often reflect on the words of Nelson Mandela, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world’. The Bambisanani Partnership truly does enable this to happen through the power of sport and human connectivity.’
Dr. Poppy Bhengu
Dr. Poppy Bhengu, Bambisanani Volunteer from South Africa added:
One of the most beautiful outcomes of this partnership is the way it brings to life the principle of Ubuntu, “I am because we are.” While South Africans often speak of Ubuntu, this partnership shows it in action. It is humbling to witness schools in the UK rally behind South African children, not only by providing resources, but by standing in solidarity with them. Their actions reflect Proverbs 19:17: “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done.”
Our faith teaches us that love is not merely a spoken word; it is demonstrated through compassion, generosity, and action. The Bambisanani Partnership embodies this truth. It shows our children, and our communities, that we are not forgotten, that God’s love can be seen and felt through the kindness of others. It reassures us that while we may not always understand God’s plan, He often uses people, even from across oceans, to bring healing, encouragement, and light.
In the small acts of kindness, in the shared games on dusty fields, in the heartfelt moments of connection between strangers, the message is clear: God lives, God cares, and we are all His instruments. The Bambisanani Partnership, for us, is not only a partnership between nations, but also a partnership grounded in the spirit of Christ, where love is made visible.”
With its 20th anniversary nearing, this small charity’s team of over 80 volunteers is dedicated to expanding opportunities for young people from both countries to collaborate and learn together in the ubuntu spirit of solidarity and shared humanity. The charity brings together people of different nations, background, colour, and creed, they all bring belief and faith through actions in a shared mission to make the world a better place. This powerful and harmonious collective is making a real difference in the most challenging of circumstances.
Three memorable Bambisanani Partnership volunteering visits to South Africa in 2025
This year has seen 35 students and 10 members of staff, from St. Mary’s School, Menston; The University of Leeds and Newcastle College volunteer in South Africa as part of the Bambisanani Partnership. Over a three-month period, they delivered a range of needs led Bambisanani projects and programmes to 3,679 young people in 32 different schools including 7 schools that were completely new to the initiative. With the objective to: ‘To use sport & education to inspire, engage and develop young people and communities in both countries’ the visits have been a remarkable success in terms of both purpose and impact.
Each visit brought different strengths, fresh ideas and measurable impact to local schools and community projects, while giving both UK and South African students volunteers a hands-on, experience of cross-cultural learning.
St. Mary’s School: festival-style athletics and community learning
St. Mary’s returned to the Nkandla region with a group of student leaders and staff who organised the Bambisanani Schools’ International Athletics Challenge and community sports festivals. The St. Mary’s team led athletics events for multiple local primary schools, delivering coaching, officiating and leadership opportunities that engaged hundreds of young South African pupils. Beyond sport, the group ran literacy and early-years activities—visiting daycare centres and supporting reading sessions— bringing classroom skills into the community and reinforcing the Partnership’s “learning through sport” ethos. The visit was described as purposeful and hugely motivating for both visitors and hosts.
University of Leeds: cycling, girls’ programmes and award-winning delivery
The University of Leeds volunteer team built on several years of collaboration, focusing this year on cycling development and targeted programmes for girls. Their work linked into the Partnership’s emerging cycling hub initiatives — coaching local cycling sessions, supporting skill-building and discussing sustainability for future hubs — while also delivering leadership training and school-based sport sessions. The Leeds team’s impact was also recognised back home: their work with Bambisanani and the student volunteering programme (Gryphons Abroad) has been singled out in university awards and Partnership praise, underlining the quality and longevity of the Leeds–Bambisanani link.
Newcastle (Newcastle College): three weeks of sustained support and skills exchange
A group of students and staff from Newcastle completed a three-week placement in rural KwaZulu-Natal, part of their annual volunteering programme with the Partnership. Their visit combined sports coaching, classroom support and community outreach — from running inclusive coaching sessions and sports festivals to supporting literacy activities and mentoring local student leaders. Newcastle’s programme emphasised sustained presence: three weeks allowed relationships to develop, practical skills to be embedded, and local partners to co-design sessions that met immediate needs while planning for longer-term follow-up. The college reported that students returned inspired, better equipped for future careers and committed to ongoing fundraising and support.
“I have nothing but praise and admiration for the remarkable staff and students from St. Mary’s, University of Leeds, Newcastle College and all our partners in South Africa. Our needs led programmes in South Africa are making a real difference in the communities in which we work. Young people from both countries are working together and learning together in the most meaningful way. This is extremely difficult and challenging work but our team continues to respond providing the most powerful educational opportunities. Their commitment and enthusiasm know no bounds as all three institutions are now well underway in planning their 2026 visits to South Africa which will mark the 20th Anniversary of the partnership.”
Related articles:
A Life-Changing Journey: My Experiences in South Africa
An article by Leona Vaduthala
Leona in South Africa
In July 2025, I travelled to South Africa through the Bambisanani Partnership - a visit that began as a volunteering opportunity but changed into something far deeper and personal. It became a journey of self-discovery, reshaping the way I saw both the world and myself.
I was quite nervous when I started off. The enormity of what I was going to be a part of hit me as soon as I arrived in Eshowe. However, with each passing day, my confidence grew, which reflected not just in how I felt, but in how I engaged with the activities and people around me.
Having started with St. Mary’s Menston and Mnyakanya High School over 19 years ago, the Bambisanani Partnership today includes more than 50 educational institutes from primary schools through to universities. As a Sixth Form student at St. Mary’s, I was fortunate enough to be part of this partnership which is built on a simple yet powerful principle: to work together and learn together. During my time in South Africa, this aim wasn’t just met - it was exceeded. We became more than a team; we became a family. We supported one another, shared stories and grew together. From learning Zulu and traditional African dances to teaching sport and academic lessons, every moment was a chance to learn something new.
Throughout the journey, I saw the core values of the partnership come to life: faithfulness in our commitment to each other; humility in learning from those around us; integrity in how we represented ourselves and our schools; forgiveness when things didn’t go perfectly; solidarity with the communities we served; dignity in every interaction; service in every task we undertook; and, respect for every person we met. These values weren’t just words - they were lived, felt, and shared in every moment of the visit.
What struck me most was the unwavering warmth and joy of the people I met. Regardless of their personal circumstances, every person greeted us with a radiant smile. It taught me something profound: happiness isn’t about possessions, but how you choose to present yourself in the world. Since returning home, I’ve tried to carry that same spirit with me, always leading with a smile.
Another important lesson came through sport. Despite the language barrier, sport became our shared language; as a way to connect, communicate, and collaborate. It reminded me that meaningful relationships don’t always require words. Determination, teamwork, and mutual respect can bridge even the widest gaps.
Nelson Mandela once said:
“Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand. Sport can create hope where once there was only despair.”
I saw this truth unfold before my eyes. Sport became a bridge - uniting us across cultures, languages, and backgrounds. It gave us hope, joy, and a sense of shared purpose.
One of the most unforgettable moments for me was at Thembimfundo Special School. I was leading a conga line when the students began singing and dancing. I did my best to match their infectious energy, and in that moment - surrounded by music, movement, and pure joy - I felt completely alive. It remains one of my favourite memories from the visit.
My time at Mynkanya High School was especially meaningful. From the moment I stepped into the courtyard, I felt an instant connection with the students. I hoped to make a difference, but I never expected the overwhelming gratitude I received. The thoughtful gifts and emotional goodbyes showed me just how deeply we had impacted each other. The friendships I formed there are ones I truly treasure and will deeply miss.
Beyond volunteering, every shared experience with the Bambisanani team added to the magic. From the breathtaking safari and chewing sugar cane on the farm, to the rhythms of marimba music and the richness of traditional African storytelling, each day brought something new and beautiful. Visiting a traditional African village was another highlight. I immersed myself in local customs, tasted traditional Zulu beer and porridge, and gained a deeper appreciation for South Africa’s vibrant heritage.
This experience changed me. It opened my eyes to the beauty of human connection and the power of shared purpose. South Africa gave me more than I could ever give in return; and for that, I am eternally grateful.
St. Mary’s in South Africa: A visit with purpose
Following eighteen months of preparation, planning and fundraising, fifteen students from St. Mary’s embarked on a mission to deliver a ‘Leadership Through Sport’ programme’ to students at Mnyakanya High School situated in the remote, rural Nkandla area of South Africa.
This year’s visit was led by Charlotte Wood with support from Catherine Chattoe and Patrick Rogozinski. The team were also joined by Matt and Chloe Crooks,trustees of the Jordan Sinnott Foundation.
The student team comprised of JP Carroll, Jack Booth, Harry Nuttall, Tom Brooks, Chris Jose, Aaron Smith, Ava Shepherd, Leona Vaduthala, Niamh Casey, Isabel Barnes, Zara Helliwell, Evie Harris, Ria Clarke, Gina Bene-Hamill and Erin Healy.
The visit started in rural Nkandla where St. Mary’s students led and organised the Bambisanani Schools’ Athletic competition with for local primary schools. Impressive times and distances stunned the student leaders especially given that many participants were barefooted and running on difficult terrain.
Following four intense days of athletics coaching and leadership training, 40 Mnyakanya High School students were fully equipped and confident enough to organise and host a spectacular Sports and Reading Festival for 60 children from Ntolwane Primary School. Both Festivals were a tremendous success and enjoyed by all. Additionally, as part of the visit, the St. Mary’s students delivered lessons in a wide range of curriculum areas. Enthusiastic staff and students from Mnyakanya High School experienced high quality lessons in geography, maths, biology, and PE.
At a special presentation ceremony and partnership celebration, Mnyakanya students received their much-deserved Leadership awards and students from Mnyakanya and Ntolwane Primary school were presented with a series of annual Bambisanani awards from the John Paul II Foundation for Sport as well as very special awards in memory of Lawrie McCauley, Sbonelo Magwaza and Heather Read.
In collaboration with Newcastle College, St. Mary’s visited Thembimfundo Special School for children with various disabilities and challenges. The team ran a Sports Day for the children, which included dancing, high jump, boccia, javelin and parachute games. It was moving, rewarding and insightful to see how well the children did, and to see how happy they were participating in the activities. The UK team hosted a celebration ceremony where they were delighted to present, awards in memory of former St. Mary’s teacher Matt Harvey. The awards celebrated students who had demonstrated excellence, determination and leadership in sport.
The final part of the visit saw the St. Mary’s students volunteering at uMlalazi Day Centre and Crèche, a centre for orphans and vulnerable children run by the Zulufadder Children’s Trust. This was a magical time for St. Mary’s students where they loved promoting literacy bringing stories to life with the use of props and toys. The students also acted out We’re Going on a Bear Hunt read by Catherine Chattoe and had a teddy bears’ picnic. The St. Mary’s students also helped plant some vegetables for the Centre providing them with lettuce, onions, beetroot and Maize along with seeds kindly donated by members of the St. Mary’s community.
Upon returning from the visit Gina Bene-Hamill said, “I was told it would be amazing, but it was better than that, each day I was more amazed and grateful for being there. It was the best experience I have ever had.”
Niamh Casey said, “Bambisanani was a truly eye opening experience that has provided me with so many unforgettable life lessons.”
Jack Booth said, “A completely life changing experience, full of opportunity and adventure that opened my mind on so many levels and something I will never forget.”
Miss Wood in the final blog of the visit said, “All 15 of you have been a pleasure to work with over the last 10 days. Having taught and still teaching a handful of you it’s been great to see your journey develop as inspirational, caring young adults. I hope you all learn from this experience and build on skills that you have gained. I hope you learn from your experiences, cherish friendships made, but most of all follow your dreams and believe that the impossible is possible with true grit and determination.”
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.
St. Mary’s students impress Rotarians with Bambisanani Partnership Presentation
We are extremely proud of St. Mary’s Menston Year 13 students Holly Taylor and Freya Power who were invited to speak to the members of Rotary Club of Aireborough about their recent work in South Africa as part of The Bambisanani Partnership.
Holly and Freya with The club’s President Janet Appleton, Rotarians Graham Davies and Janet Kerr and St. Mary’s teacher Charlotte Wood.
Holly and Freya spoke articulately and passionately about their volunteering and the impact their time in Africa had on them and South African students. In their recent visit to South Africa, St. Mary’s students and staff worked with 14 different schools and more than 1,400 students in a range of Bambisanani sports, education and leadership programmes.
The Rotarians were very impressed by the two students and loved hearing their stories.
The Rotary Club of Aireborough, together with Eshowe Rotary Club in South Africa have supported the Bambisanani Partnership since the very first St. Mary’s School visit to South Africa 19 years ago. During that time more than 27,000 students from both countries have engaged in the various Bambisanani programmes and projects. The pioneering work of the partnership has gained international acclaim during that time. Rotary support has been instrumental in these programmes as well as with infra structure projects that have seen houses rebuilt and computers and clean water brought to South African schools. The very special relationship with Rotarians is helping to change lives in one of the most challenging regions of South Africa – it is also helping to bring young people together from both countries, promoting global citizenship and international friendships.
Well done to Holly and Freya – their powerful presentation inspired members of the Rotary Club of Aireborough and developed this very special relationship even further. Long may it continue!
Freya in South Africa
Freya Power
“Volunteering in South Africa as part of The Bambisanani Partnership was incredible and the best experience I have ever had. I have never been as happy as I was in those ten days. It has really changed my perspective and attitude towards many things in life. The love the children have for their education is truly inspiring and has made me appreciate my own education more than I ever have. South African children always try their best in everything they do and never give up despite the many challenges they face. There is definitely a lot that can be learned from these amazing children. As a musician myself, nothing could have prepared me for the pure talent of the singers in the choir at Mnyakanya High School. For me, the performances they gave were one of my highlights. I could see the pure passion and emotion they put into their singing and this is what made it so special. I think when they sang, it touched the hearts of many people. It was particularly emotional when they performed for us for the last time as everyone reflected on what a life-changing experience we had, but also that we had to leave all the wonderful people we had met. The singing of the Ntolwane Primary school children was also very touching. When we arrived, hundreds of children came together and created the most powerful sound which gave me goosebumps. I realised that singing is something that unites them and I think that is a very beautiful thing. Something that will always be imprinted in my mind is the pure joy we witnessed on the faces of so many children during our time there. To think we contributed to this is really special and something I will never forget. It was particularly touching time when we volunteered at Thembimfundo Special School, to see how happy the children were, despite the challenging circumstances they face, despite these they never stopped smiling and laughing. These children give me hope for humanity. I will be forever grateful that I had the opportunity to volunteer in Kwa Zulu Natal. Thank you Bambisanani.”
Holly in South Africa
Holly Taylor
“Volunteering in South Africa as part of The Bambisanani Partnership was the best decision I have made. Our time there helped me to better understand how different people from different cultures live their lives. Being able to have the opportunity to help the children at Mnyakanya High School was life changing for both us and them, being able to see the difference our volunteering was making was so special. I didn’t expect that in such a short time we would make such good friendships with all the students at Mnyakanya and that they would leave such a lasting impact on me. Being able to witness how they live their everyday school life and seeing how different it is to ours made me appreciate how lucky we are, even though sometimes we don’t appreciate it. Being able to sing, dance, play sports and help these children learn was such a once in a lifetime opportunity that I will never forget.”
Members of the Bambisanani team from the UK and South Africa would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
uKhisimusi omuhe nonyaka omusha omuhle
Many thanks for all your tremendous help and support that enables us to do all that we do
Ngiyabonga kakhulu
Joy to The World
St. Mary’s Christmas Message to Mnyakanya High School 2024
This year has brought our school many blessings, the greatest
of which was the visitation by PK, Mazet, Eunice, Amahle and
Bayanda; our very own travellers from afar. They brought their
gifts of joy, laughter and love and distributed them abundantly
and freely. We give thanks for the riches our partnership brings
to all and the great sharing and exchange of God’s gifts. We
pray for the Mnyakanya community at this wonderful time of
year when we focus on the Holy Family and ask that God
continues to grace our combined efforts, as a partnership
family, bringing us closer together in heart mind and soul.
Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas.
With our love.
Your friends at St Mary's, Menston.
This is a message from Mnyakanya High School, a school in the Nkandla region of Kwa Zulu Natal in South Africa.
St. Mary’s Menston have been working with Mnyakanya for 18 years.
Dear friends,
As the holiday season approaches, we would like to take a moment to send our warmest wishes to our dearest friends, your loved ones and your community. Although we may be miles apart, the spirit of Christmas brings us closer together in heart, mind and soul. Our year has been filled with happiness, triumphs and challenges, but we are grateful for our friendship and partnership. St. Mary’s support and kindness have meant the world to us, and we cherish the moments we've shared even from afar. May your Christmas be filled with joy laughter and the warmth of family and friends.
Here's to a prosperous New Year ahead, filled with new adventures and
opportunities for us to explore together.
Wishing you all the magic and wonder of the season.
Lots of love
Mnyakanya High School