Our focus on energy began early, when we installed a wind turbine at an informal settlement to bring some light to a school and a community that had existed without electricity. Some of the positive repercussions were unanticipated: such as the swift arrival of an ambulance to the school’s community centre to collect a child who had fallen ill. How did the ambulance find the child in a community that had previously been unnavigable at night? The light was on in the community centre: powered by the wind turbine.

Since then, we have installed solar panels to power school water systems, so students do not suffer during the crippling periods of load-shedding when the electrical grid shuts down. We have also funded the purchase and distribution of at least 100 Luminaid solar lanterns: a simple yet stunning invention. It is an inflatable device that provides light for children who live in homes without electricity. Per the school’s request, we focus on Grade 12 learners to enhance their chances of passing the matric (aka the end-of-high school exams) and heading to university.

What about the other Grade 12 learners who do not receive the lanterns? Well, during the periods of group study in preparation for the matric, those who received the lanterns bring them so everyone may reap the benefits of the light. That is Ubuntu-in-action: the philosophy that binds those we serve. It translates to, “I am because of you. I am because we are.”

Would you like to join this cause? Wonderful. Please purchase a $25 lantern for a child by clicking here. More empowered students, relieved parents, and hope!