Changing the world one book at a time
Thanks to Caxton Auto Dealer Joburg’s Nontobeko Khumalo, staff members at her branch, as well as at the Caxton Boksburg branch, can now enjoy free reading pleasure with the launch of a mini library initiative.
The initiative powered by Fundzisa, will move across Caxton East Rand branches and maybe even across South Africa says Khumalo.
Fundzisa is Khumalo’s brain child, and the project aims to develop the community through reading and literacy.
Khumalo started collecting books and initially wanted to give back in a rural village in Swaziland where her grandparents are based.
“The idea stemmed from wanting to develop a library for the primary school in Swaziland, but thanks to the generous donations the project has grown to mini libraries to also help the older generation.
“We are hoping that the libraries will grow around Swaziland and South Africa,” explains Khumalo.
Khumalo believes that the high rate of HIV and teenage pregnancy is as a result of people being misinformed and illiterate.
“Reading teaches children about the world around them. Through reading, they learn about people, places and events outside their own experience. They are exposed to ways of life, ideas and beliefs about the world which may be different from those which surround them.”
She says that the aim of the mini libraries is to allow visitors and staff members to read the donated novels.
“When taking a book from this mini library, you don’t have to return the book after you’ve finished reading it. The only requirement is that you share it with another person,” she says.
The mini libraries made out of wood were built by a Grade 7 learner from Laerskool Concordia, Chris Barnard (12) with the help of his father, Marthinus Nel.
Barnard partnered with Khumalo in this initiative because he loves creating things.
According to Barnard, he has been experimenting with wood since he was 10 years old.
“I love it because it’s cool to create stuff out of wood,” says Barnard.
Khumalo says she hopes to change lives with the mini libraries and other projects under Fundzisa.
“In the future I hope to have a media centre built where it will be a library and computer centre.” -@TumeloBoksburg
this women is an inspiration to all, she will eternally be blessed.
A woman taking up the initiative to change the world to a better place. big ups to you maKhumalo and Chris may God give you the strength and courage to ensure that this project doesn’t fail.
When i grow up i want to be just like you @Nontobeko,you are such a blessing.#one book at a time
Nontiiiiiiii!!!! U did it! So proud of u big sis! Well done#1book@atime