And so, three years ago, a group of committed teens in Johannesburg established a summer day camp, Ubuntu Africa. The aim? To save lives by running a drowning prevention course for underprivileged kids aged four to 12, using the King David Linksfield school facilities and professional coaches.
The week-long experience has become so much more than a focus on safety and fun in water – it is a proper summer camp too. Kids are nurtured and entertained through various activities, such as arts and crafts, aimed at building their self-esteem.
The 2017 camp ran from November 30 to December 4. Volunteers from the King David schools spent each day ensuring that the kids were cared for and kept busy and happy.
Motivational speaker Kiki Marks told them her story and encouraged them to follow their dreams and reach their potential. They were taught anti-drowning skills and enjoyed fitness training sessions with Dean Passmore. And on gratitude day, they made snowglobes and thank you cards for their teachers and caregivers. All this, while swimming daily under the careful instruction of the King David Linksfield swimming team.
On Sunday, December 3, they were treated to a fun Christmas Party, complete with presents and hugs.
We thank all the volunteers and organisations that have helped make Ubuntu Africa a success, in particular Mary Mudau, who looks after the kids every day with limited resources but unlimited kindness.
Chessed, acts of love and kindness, is a powerful tool we can all use to change the world.
