The Sibaya Community Trust, in collaboration with key community stakeholders, proudly hosted a highly impactful NPO Capacity Building Workshop.
The event took place at the Imbizo conference centre, Sibaya Casino, bringing together over 500 non-profit organisations from across KwaZulu-Natal for a day of learning, inspiration, and networking.
The workshop aimed to equip NPOs with the tools and knowledge necessary to enhance their operations, improve fundraising strategies, and ensure long-term sustainability. Topics covered included governance and compliance, financial management, donor engagement, digital transformation, and innovative fundraising methods.
Vivian Reddy, Chairman of the Sibaya Community Trust, delivered the official welcome address, highlighting the continued commitment to community development and social upliftment. He commended the tireless efforts of nonprofit organisations working at the grassroots level and reaffirmed the Trust’s support in enabling them to thrive.
Throughout the day, attendees were treated to presentations from seasoned facilitators and professionals in the nonprofit sector.
“The energy in the room was powerful,” said Sorisha Naidoo, Trustee of Sibaya Community Trust. “Today was not just about learning; it was about unity, collaboration, and inspiring our NPOs to keep doing the incredible work they do in our communities.”
Among the speakers were:
Transnet foundation
Victor Daitz
Ishwar and Laila Mangaroo Foundation Trust
National Lotteries Commission
Goldrush
Kingdom Slots
KZN Slots
Toyota SA
Downes Murray International
Department of Social Development
Grant in Aid, Ethekwini Municipality
SA Community Food Bank
Taxology A1
Linda Zama Foundation
KZN ERA
The workshop concluded with an enthusiastic session on fundraising ideas
Many attendees expressed gratitude for the practical insights gained and the opportunity to connect with like-minded change-makers.
This initiative forms part of Sibaya Community Trust’s broader mission to uplift communities by strengthening the capacity of organisations that serve on the front lines of social development.
In a move to inspire young minds and promote literacy, Sibaya Community Trust donated 800 books to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s ELITS (Education Library, Information and Technology Services) division.
The book, titled “Vuka Tshabalala on Trial”, captures the extraordinary life journey of Judge Vuka Tshabalala, South Africa’s first Black Judge President. His story is one of resilience, courage, and determination—rising above the challenges of apartheid to break barriers in the country’s legal system.
The donation will see these books placed in high school libraries across KwaZulu-Natal, allowing learners to access this powerful story of leadership, justice, and perseverance said Sorisha Naidoo, Trustee of Sibaya Community Trust.
Sibaya Community Trust has long been a champion of educational development and continues to support initiatives that empower young people through knowledge.
“We believe that telling our own stories and highlighting South African role models can deeply inspire learners to reach for greatness,” added Naidoo.
The Department of Education welcomed the donation, acknowledging its value not only in enhancing reading resources in schools, but also in reminding learners of the strength found in their own communities and history.
This meaningful contribution underscores the importance of storytelling in shaping future leaders and building a nation rooted in dignity, equality, and justice.
Two prefabricated classrooms were officially handed over to Umzinyathi Primary School, donated by the Sibaya Community Trust. More than that, it was a celebration of dignity in education.
For a long time, this school faced the very difficult challenge of accommodating more than 85 children in a single classroom. That’s not just uncomfortable — it’s a barrier to quality education. It affects the health, focus, and future of our children.
“It is a step forward for every child who sat in overcrowded classrooms, struggling to concentrate, to breathe, to learn,” said Sorisha Naidoo, Trustee of Sibaya Community Trust.
“At Sibaya Community Trust, we believe education is the foundation of transformation. No child should be denied the chance to dream big simply because there are not enough walls to contain their ambition. This donation, while modest in structure, is grand in impact,” said Naidoo.
“We hope these classrooms will provide a more nurturing, safe, and focused environment for learners and educators alike – a space where ideas are shared freely, where young minds grow, and where dreams are born.
“We also want to salute the educators and principal of Umzinyathi Primary School — your dedication under challenging conditions has been remarkable. You continued to show up, to teach, to guide. These classrooms are as much a gift to you as they are to the learners.
“To our learners here today: we want you to know that you matter. Your education matters. Your future matters. And there are people who believe in you enough to invest in your journey.”
Sibaya Community Trust has invested more than R270 million into communities just like this one — in education, health, and social upliftment — because a better South Africa begins with empowered people.
Thank you to everyone who made this possible, especially GR Extra Space.
“May these classrooms be filled with learning, laughter, and limitless potential,” concluded Naidoo.
