School and water safety for South African kids

Some of the children at the orphanage were treated to a wonderful art workshop by our friends at Southern Africa Sustainable Development Initiative (SASDI) a few weeks ago.  A wonderful time was had by all and the children were very proud of their artwork. We are hoping to do a larger program with them at the High School in Langa in the coming months.

We are grateful that Judy Mannix has come on board as an Advisor to Love to Langa!  Judy is an international business consultant and policy development specialist who has tackled complex issues in economic growth, most recently, in Sub Saharan Africa. She has worked on issues related to the private and public sector, as well as in international and non-governmental organizations. She has helped to shape policy solutions and developed programs for topics such as agribusiness, food security and renewable energy. As a leader in creating awareness of agribusiness opportunities/projects in rural environments, she has worked closely with local, state and federal governments to support capacity building, advocating on behalf of the small/medium farmer.

Recognized for her leadership abilities and commitment to public service, Judy was selected for The Anne B. Anstine Excellence in Public Service Series in Pennsylvania in 2009. Engaged in a yearlong program, she learned how to be a more effective leader in government, politics and her community. She is deeply committed to reducing poverty and hunger in Sub Saharan Africa and has worked for the United States Department of Health and Human Services in disaster and recovery efforts.

Judy is completing her master's degree in Public Administration at The University of Pennsylvania, The Fels Institute of Government. She is focused on international economic business development and governance. She holds a graduate certificate in Non Profit Administration from the University of Pennsylvania and an undergraduate degree in Communications from Villanova University. She lives in Philadelphia, PA and Washington, DC.

The last time we visited South Africa, we took "our" kids on a field trip to the Two Oceans Aquarium and out to lunch.  It was a wonderful treat, especially since most of the kids had never eaten in a restaurant before.  This time, we wanted to do something really special. 

Robben Island is the historic prison off the coast of Cape Town where Nelson Mandela and other heroes of the anti-apartheid movement were held for many years.  It is now a museum and World Heritage Site.  On February 26, 2012, we took 39 AIDS orphans, vulnerable children, grannies and volunteers on a day trip to Robben Island.  We were amazed that the grannies, including a woman in her 70s, had never had the opportunity to experience it, let alone the children.

The day was full of excitement, beginning with the thrilling 30-minute boat ride and ending with a joyful celebration back at the orphanage.  Please take a look at this brief video, that we hope will give you a sense of the day.

Links:

• Love to Langa goes to Robben Island video