Launches

Pietermaritzburg

The launch of the PMB branch took place on the 11 August 2006, at the Tembaletu Community Centre. People who attended the launch were from the communities, faith based organizations, and students. Our guest speaker Mr. Sipho Mbatha from the Umsobomvu Youth Fund spoke about the interaction between his organization and BBBSSA, he also endorsed the programme and mention that this programme is much needed in order for our youth to grow up and become responsible adults. We also had input from a Big Craig and Little Bradley who told us about the importance and benefits of this programme. It was well received. The CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters SA, Ms Sharmala Govender, outlined the programme and structure of the organization, highlighting the benefits of engaging in such a programme. By the end of her presentation she had encouraged many people to become mentors.

The PMB branch is also proud to announce that its first match took place at the launch.

Umsobomvu

On Monday, 27 February 2006, a launch was held at the Mamelodi Community Centre in Gauteng. Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Africa (BBBSSA) joined partnership with the National Youth Service (NYS) and the Umsobomvu Youth Fund (UYF). Read the full press release.

Durban

On the 26th August 2005 BBBSSA was launched in KwaZulu Natal at the Chatsworth Youth Centre. Roy Padayachee, Deputy Minister of communications and Logie Naidoo, Deputy Mayor of eThekwini, who were the guests of honour, expressed their faith in the organisation as well as their full support.

Ms Sharmala Govender, the executive director of BBBSSA, gave a presentation to members of the audience who were very enthusiastic to learn more. We have had a good response from people wanting to be mentors and we eagerly awaited our first training session and match day.