Operation Feed the Future

The delegation of 5 learners representing the Class of 2009 together with Mr. Mahlutshana the principal of Sinenjongo High School, Joe Slovo Milnerton was invited to address the BBN Go ProActive Business Members on the 18 March 2009 held at the premises of Mitsubishi Motors, Paarden Eiland. Mr Mahlutshana, in addressing the BBN Members, spoke about the challenges facing the youth of Joe Slovo.

Mr Mahlutshana (Principle), with a group of Grade 10's from Sinenjongo High School,
Joe Slovo Park

What is taken for granted in the more fortunate areas of greater Blaauwberg is a huge challenge in respect of daily living not to mention the challenges facing young people in the area of income generation after their education. He said that between 70 and 80 percent of the learners come to school hungry. This must have an adverse effect on the learning ability and the eventual outcome in respect of their education.

How can we ever hope to grow a generation of job creators when young people grow up surrounded by poverty negatively impacting their struggle to learn, to live, make positive choices and eventually to succeed. We believe that only a few would become successful and people of value in these circumstances. South Africa needs many, many more than just a few.

In this respect, BBN wants to form meaningful partnerships that becomes an effective bridge that prepares and assists these young learners and aspiring entrepreneurs to become successful businessmen and women in the greater economy of Blaauwberg as well as be the role models for the generations to come. By starting with Grade 10 Learners we will prepare them for the day when they matriculate and enter the marketplace, confident of their success.

In the meantime we need to find a way to ensure that we make a start with feeding these young learners in the BBN – Yes I Can programme and eventually the whole Sinenjongo High School.

Please email info@bbn.co.za if you have ideas as to how we can address this challenge?