By Sbongile Sokela
Bacha Ba Dichaba is closing the year with pride after achieving major milestones, even though the annual Awards Ceremony had to be cancelled. The organisation continued its mission of empowering young people and supporting schools across various communities. This year, the team donated 2 000 cover books, provided school shoes, repaired school libraries, and took learners on life-changing trips to Botswana and public speaking camps.
The schools that benefited from these programmes include Rolihlahla Primary School, Zamukhanyo Primary School and George Mbilase Primary School. The organisation highlighted that these schools fully understand how they benefited because they experienced the improvements firsthand. Their gratitude has been a strong reminder of the importance of Bacha Ba Dichaba’s work.
This year, the organisation also hired 30 young people through the NYS Programme. Their contribution played a major role in ensuring the success of the organisation’s activities. One NYS participant expressed deep appreciation, saying, “This year has been so hard with being unemployed but NYS helped me with the job. I’m forever grateful for the opportunity and to the CEO Thabang Lichaba for creating jobs for young people and giving hope that was lost.” The organisation thanked the group for their hard work, commitment and energy throughout the programme.
A warm message of appreciation was also shared for the CEO, board members, stakeholders, beneficiaries, and every person who played a role this year. Bacha Ba Dichaba extended its gratitude to its partners, including 100% Foundation, Siyakha Youth Foundation, Gauteng Provincial Library Information Services, Bonamelo Melisizwe Foundation, Tshiamiso Astronauts, Ekurhuleni News, SAAYC and others who supported the organisation’s work. Thabang expressed pride in the organisation’s achievements, saying, “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved, and we’re excited about our work.” Another team member added, “This year showed us what teamwork can do for learners and young people in our communities.”
Looking ahead, Bacha Ba Dichaba is preparing for an even stronger 2026. The organisation plans to obtain official accreditation, host a Back to School Indigenous Languages Spelling Bee Competition, organise the QwaQwa Spelling Bee Competition, and launch its first organisation magazine. The team is confident that the new year will bring even bigger opportunities and deeper impact in the communities they serve.
“Happy festive season to all!” said the CEO. Contact details 063 468 0872/ 061 635 2833/ 081 358 3158 bachabadichaba@gmail.com