GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The Imibala Trust recently launched a project that resulted in the publication of its first Imibala book, Voices from the Heartland.
The Imibala Trust is a registered South African NPO that was initiated by Gaynor Rupert and works with children of schoolgoing age whose lives are affected by impoverished circumstances.
It provides a platform to offer programmes that make a substantial and measurable difference in the lives of the children, both currently and as they prepare for their lives after school.
All children, regardless of race or creed, are assisted through these programmes.
The Imibala book consists of poems, stories and artwork created by young Imibala South Africans aged 9 to 20.
The contributors come from a wide range of schools and communities, including Graaff-Reinet, Somerset West, Strand, Hermanus and Macassar.
“We are very proud of the 17 learners from our Graaff-Reinet schools whose work was chosen to be featured in the book,” says Cindy Roux, manager of the Imibala Trust office in Graaff-Reinet.
These learners are:
• Graaff-Reinet Primary: Lyle West
• Narsingstraat Primary: Tyrese Grootboom
• Ryneveld Primary: Leleti Lomberg
• Thembalesizwe Primary: Imelda Green, Imangenkosyiam Tzhazibane, Siyazinqca Koos, Avumile Khanzi, Amyoli Skade
• Asherville Secondary: Ayesha Wagenaar
• Nqweba Secondary: Rosetha Williams
• Union High: Clea Clark, Jade Slater, Amber Slater, Linda Tadesse, Jourdon Koeberg, Gerda Clarke, Saskia Strydom.
“The book is more than just a creative showcase - it is a platform for youth voices and a celebration of identity, pride and community.
It formed part of a broader celebration of culture and heritage at the 2025 Indie Authors’ Rise Up - Fire Fringe Festival earlier in the year.”
Those who would like to purchase a book may visit the Imibala office at 46 Church Street in Graaff-Reinet.
All proceeds from the sales will go directly to the Imibala Trust’s education and development programmes.
For more information on the Imibala Trust, visit www.imibalatrust.com or pop into the office.
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