East London, the Eastern Cape, South Africa is one of the loveliest destinations in South Africa, aside from being a holiday destination it is also a region enjoying a wonderful commitment to growth, here is a little story that might entice you to travel to this sunny region. If you are interested of further information contact the writer at the mail address below.
Imvomvo is the IsiXhosa name for the Aloe flower, to some the flame of the colored bloom sends its message of defiance to the drought that descends daily as we wind our way through a dry winter, to others it signifies hope and dreams. Led by the indefatigable Thoko Mlonyeni, the Imvomvo team tirelessly towards their goals. Imvomvo is a Section 21 Company, an NGO funded primarily by the Australian Government, specializing in the provision of training and all services relevant to the development of physical activity and sport in communities and schools and with the Aloe flower representing their commitment to supporting all branches of the local community.
Having identified the shortcomings of the existing school sport facilities and the need for committed assistance, Imvomo offers training courses, facilitates tournaments and mentors community members including parents, teachers and the elderly within the immediate community to become a trainers. At the same time giving aid and assistance to children of all levels, building skills and building dreams. Imvomvu has formed a symbiotic association with the local community and sports clubs where they often share facilities, together playing an important role in youth development projects by running junior rugby and netball tournaments in Mdantsane. Attempts are being made to revive these sports amongst the youth in the area and to encourage youth to get involved in sport in order to improve their day-to-day circumstances. Working from their Berea office in East London, Thoko and her team are supported by a highly qualified Board of Directors. The Board consist of community leaders in their fields and monitor the strategic direction and vision implemented by Imvomvo her staff, coordinators and volunteers.
With many successful projects behind, such as the Ginsburg Pilot Club project, life skills and self-esteem training for youth including HIV/AIDS programs, Imvomvo plays a significant role in assisting the less advantaged members of our Eastern Cape community to reach their personal development goals. But as with any meaningful project of this nature, there is simply no end to the assistance that is required. Applications are currently being considered by the Department of Sport and Recreation in Bisho. Thoko and her team would certainly appreciate further support from committed local business, the needs of the poorer section of our community are so vast, South Africans are passionate about both sport and community development, this is an opportunity to get constructively involved in the betterment of the community. By example, with the kind assistance from Continental meats, a local butchery, Imvomvo runs a soup kitchen where they serve one meal per day. The soup kitchen facilitated by the elderly volunteers of the immediate community who have been taught to grow vegetables to support this project. Empowerment, a key word in the mission statement, empowerment through learning and skills development, with a vision of becoming a key player in uniting South African communities through sport and leisure programs.
Alan Hawkins – CEO
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