There is such positive news to report from The Caitlin Fund in 2018. In 2017 both Zinhle and Vuyelwa graduated! And Kamvelihle completed her second year at the Durban University of Technology.
Vuyelwa was was one of 20 graduates chosen from across the country to work as an intern for one of the largest media companies in South Africa. She starts at the beginning of February. We will keep in touch with her as she was considering a post graduate education diploma before she got offered the internship. We would definitely be willing to assist her in the future if she decides that she wants to continue her education.
Zinhle is now doing freelance work for a restaurant and a play-based NGO. She is decorating the walls of the restaurant and designing a set for Play Africa. She is hoping that there might be work at the Tswane University of Technology. She is being supported by Gumboots SA and will hopefully find a permanent job in the near future.
Kamvelihle recently wrote: "I must say it has been a lovely year filled with new adventures. I managed to obtain 5 distinctions out of 10 modules this year and passed all my exams. My biggest highlight for the year has to be joining ENACTUSMUT which is non profit entrepreneurial organization that deals with assisting the community of South South Africa and bringing change. A number of tertiary institutions around South Africa are also involved. I've learnt so much from it and hope to grow within the organization. I feel like it is my duty to have a helping hand in the development of the country, as I also have been so fortunate. I would like to again emphasise my appreciation for the love and support I get from you and everyone who is involved. My heart is filled with nothing but appreciation and gratitude..."
It is now almost 9 years since the death of my beloved Caitlin. The Caitlin Fund has kept her name and her memory alive and the contributions received by friends and friends of friends have been used to make a real, positive and lasting difference to the lives of some young women and girls in South Africa
As 2 of the young women have graduated I have decided to fund 2 young girls who live in Alexandra Township on the outskirts of Johannesburg. Their story is too long and heart wrenching to tell here. but they haven't attended school for 2 years and have no parental support. They were living with their grandmother who died 2 months ago. Gumboots SA have found a school for them and we will support them with uniforms, taxi fares and food. We are in for the long haul on this one as they are only 12 and 9. Hopefully you will be hearing more of Mbali and Thandi Ndlovu.
There are so many other young woman like Zinhle, Vuyelwa and Kamvelihle who are desperate to continue their studies, but do not have the means to do so. With your help, our aim is to assist these and a few others to reach their full potential. We would love to be able to expand the Caitlin Fund and support as many young woman as possible going forward.
If you have any other questions, suggestions or thoughts please email: margzgreen@googlemail.com
