People of colour in South Africa, through the apartheid years, had limited opportunity and access to formal education. Lack of self esteem and a sense of unworthiness prevail through both genders. Women in particular continue to experience oppression, suffer sexual and physical violence, gender inequality, and lack of opportunity. They shoulder significant responsibility for the family and live in poverty. Men feel lost, isolated and demoralized. They often go unsupported by their families and frequently resort to alcohol and drugs for comfort, and then find a sense of identity and peer support within this destructive environment. A new organization, Ukulapha, believes that women are the present and future of South Africa. They are strong and resilient and carry massive responsibility, especially in the face of HIV/Aids.

Ukulapha was recently formed with the overall objective of facilitating the growth, development, and empowerment (mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually) of previously disadvantaged and abused South African people. One of the main objectives is to help the community manage emotions, build self-esteem and facilitate social upliftment while revitalizing the vital spirit of Ubuntu (forming mutually beneficial relationships). Though educational programs, Ukulapha will offer men and women the opportunity for full personal development and the opportunity to contribute to the social and economic development of society at large.

image005 by wildsage2

So far, Ukulapha has instituted a small college to educate and train previously disadvantaged people with an accredited qualification as counselors. Additionally, the organization provides free or affordable (based on income) counseling support to the community, including setting up support groups. Other programs work with children to provide educational opportunities.

Through these support groups, along with personal growth and skill building courses, Ukulapha aims to facilitate men and women to reclaim their membership in society, reclaim their moral values, support and empower each other, share and integrate common values, bridge gaps, restore pride and dignity, and join in the circle of healing, creating building blocks for the next generation. Women are prominent and hold a vital role as they mentor and teach their children. They instill values, a sense of purpose and goals, and a healthy sense of self and personal rights as a human being.

Ukulapha aims to facilitate men and women’s growth, development and empowerment, mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. The new educational centre aims to uplift and empower people and communities by offering education, training, applied learning and quality, and free or affordable mental health counseling services. The organization believes that men and women who have the cognitive ability and talent have been disadvantaged by their lack of formal education. They have a right to education and training opportunities as well as improved job options, and therefore every person is provided access to quality services regardless of their ability to pay. Believing that people are resourceful and are capable of making choices and decisions for themselves, Ukalapha focuses on helping clients find their own solutions and the means to make constructive changes.

Carolyn, the founder of Ukalapha, best sums up her work by writing: “What I can say is that I am blissfully happy; every cell in my body tells me so! I am so obviously where I’m meant to be and doing what is intended. The program with the children is mesmerizing; like a river gathering strength as it flows towards the sea. We are now able to do more with the children besides just food hampers; and that is another story!”

Learn what you can do to help by visiting www.ukulapha.co.za. Also, check out the photo gallery on Flickr.

photo by wildsage2