Our Approach
At Thatha Ithuba, we empower individuals through mentorship, training mentors to help young people build skills, confidence, and resilience for success.
Our mentorship model builds lasting relationships to drive academic and career growth while addressing education and guidance gaps in Imizamo Yethu. Focusing on quality, we foster self-confidence, leadership, and professional skills, preparing participants to overcome challenges and contribute to society.
Mentee
Mentor
Alumni
Mentorship
Through our mentorship programs, we aim to break the cycle of disadvantage by providing young people with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to pursue better futures.
By empowering mentees to become mentors after high school, we create a powerful cycle of sustainable change. Mentees receive guidance and support from our mentors, equipping them with the necessary skills to step into the mentor role themselves. As mentors, they give back by supporting the next generation of mentees, fostering leadership and community growth. Once mentors transition to independence through employment, they join our alumni network, where they continue to inspire and contribute to our mission.
Mentee
Providing high school students with mentorship, academic support, and career guidance to succeed academically and personally.
Our mentors work closely with high school students, offering support with academics, career choices, and personal growth. Thatha Ithuba’s workshops teach time management, goal-setting, and communication skills, and offer personalized guidance on career choices. Academic support in subjects like Mathematics helps improve student performance and reduces stress.
«Having a mentor has helped me make confident decisions about my future. I now feel prepared for what lies ahead.»
Mentor
We empower individuals through mentorship and education.
Our mentorship program equips mentors with essential life skills, leadership capabilities, and effective communication techniques. Through workshops and training camps, mentors gain expertise in areas like conflict resolution, teamwork, and self-care. This ensures they are well-prepared to inspire and guide their mentees, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
In addition, our bursary program supports around 20 tertiary students annually by providing financial aid for tuition and other expenses. This initiative breaks down financial barriers, enabling students to focus on their academic and career goals. A unique aspect of our program is that bursary recipients are required to serve as mentors, fostering a culture of growth, learning, and giving back.
Most of our mentors receive a stipend, recognizing their invaluable role in building a thriving, supportive community. Together, we are shaping leaders of tomorrow.
«Thatha Ithuba has empowered me with skills I never thought I’d learn. Now, I’m not just a mentor; I’m a role model.»
Alumni
Alumni of Thatha Ithuba guide the next generation, lead community initiatives, and build a legacy of empowerment.
Alumni of Thatha Ithuba play a vital role in guiding the next generation. They mentor future leaders, lead impactful community projects, and take on key responsibilities within the organization. Through their contributions, alumni help sustain our mission, foster growth, and build a legacy of empowerment for future generations.
«Being an alumnus means giving back, leading with purpose, and creating opportunities for the next generation to thrive.»
Bursary Program
Our bursary program provides financial support, mentorship, and guidance to talented students facing financial challenges. Beyond funding, we foster growth through leadership development, academic support, and career preparation. Each bursary recipient becomes part of a community committed to learning, growth, and giving back as future mentors.
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«Being a Thatha Ithuba bursary student means having a support system that believes in my potential.»
David Junior Kamutini
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«Through Thatha Ithuba, I’ve gained not just an education, but mentorship and lifelong guidance.»
Antony Mafume
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«This organization has opened doors I never thought possible, shaping my future step by step.»
Tariro Bianca Namawa
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«Thatha Ithuba gave me the confidence to dream big and the tools to achieve those dreams.»
Siwze Khuzwayo
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«As a bursary student, I’m part of a family that inspires me to grow and give back»
Sthembile Biyela
Community Projects
Our community projects aim to foster essential skills and create meaningful opportunities for young people in the Imizamo Yethu community and beyond. These initiatives help bridge educational gaps, provide career guidance, and equip participants with tools for personal and academic success. Our current projects include:
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Our career guidance workshops assist Grade 9 students in understanding their interests and strengths, helping them make informed subject and career choices. By exploring their aspirations and aligning them with educational paths, we empower these students to pursue meaningful careers.
«The workshop helped me realize what I want to do and how to get there.»
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Twice a year, our Kids Holiday Club creates a safe haven for 250 children to enjoy two weeks of pure joy. Filled with laughter, crafts, games, and surprises, it offers a much-needed escape for kids who often have little, ensuring fun, care, and plenty of meals to keep them happy and nourished.
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Our NumberSense Programme supports Grade 1–4 learners (Primary Learners) in building essential math skills. Designed to make math engaging and fun, it creates a solid foundation through hands-on activities and interactive learning, ensuring young minds grow confident and capable in numeracy.
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The Game Changer Programme supports Grade 8, 9, and 12 learners at Silikamva High School, fostering critical thinking and promoting a passion for mathematics. Developed in collaboration with Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), it bridges high school education and higher learning, preparing students for success.