At a recent meeting on 29th October 2024, Chamber members and supporters gathered to celebrate the impact of Christel House, a nonprofit school that has been changing the lives of children from disadvantaged backgrounds in South Africa.
The event, which featured heartfelt speeches and personal stories, highlighted the school’s unique approach to education and its commitment to upward economic mobility for its students.
“It’s not just about education—it’s about helping students build a better life for themselves and their families, and ultimately contributing to the nation.“
Lord Peter Hain
A Vision of Empowerment
Christel House’s work was praised by keynote speaker, Lord Peter Hain, who shared his personal experience visiting the school five years ago. “I was told about the extraordinary work being done here, but it wasn’t until I visited the school, spoke with the students, and saw the transformation firsthand, that I truly understood the magnitude of what’s happening at Christel House,” he said.
Lord Hain emphasized that many of the students come from homes where educational support is scarce, and yet Christel House provides everything from meals to tablets for learning. “These kids come from tough backgrounds—broken homes, food insecurity, and social trauma—but Christel House helps them find their bright sparks and turn them into students who can achieve great things.“
The school’s focus goes beyond traditional education. As Lord Hain noted, the ultimate goal is to provide students with opportunities for meaningful work, enabling them to contribute to the country’s growth. “It’s not just about education—it’s about helping students build a better life for themselves and their families, and ultimately contributing to the nation.“
A Holistic Approach to Education
The meeting also included remarks from Adri Marais, CEO of Christel House, who underscored the school’s comprehensive model. Adri highlighted the challenges faced by students, many of whom come from communities plagued by gang violence, drugs, and extreme poverty. “Our children come from families living on less than 1,500 Rand per month. Food insecurity, trauma, and social dysfunction are daily realities for many of our students,” she explained. “We not only focus on academic support but also provide access to counselling, social services, and health care to help students overcome these challenges.”
The school’s support system is what sets it apart. Christel House provides students with transportation to school, two meals a day, and access to medical care. Classrooms are designed to accommodate different learning styles, and each class is supported by teaching assistants. In cases of trauma, social workers and counselors are available to help students cope and thrive.
A Vision for Growth
Christel House’s success is evident in its impressive results. With a 95% graduation rate, nearly all students are either employed or studying further after completing their education. The school is expanding its reach, with plans to open a new high school in Cape Town by January 2025, followed by more schools in the Western Cape by 2029. This expansion is part of a broader effort to replicate Christel House’s success, serving more children and providing them with the tools to escape the cycle of poverty.
Adri also emphasized that Christel House is not selective in terms of talent. “We provide opportunities to all children, regardless of their background. Some students may go on to become doctors or engineers, while others may take different paths—but the important thing is that they are given the stability and support they need to succeed.”
The Path Forward
The meeting concluded with a call to action for continued support. “Christel House is not just an educational institution, it’s a lifeline for many children who otherwise wouldn’t have the chance to succeed,” said Lord Peter Hain. “Your support ensures that we can continue to help transform lives, one student at a time.”
With the plans for expansion and the proven success of its model, Christel House remains a beacon of hope for South Africa’s youth, proving that with the right support, even the most disadvantaged students can achieve their dreams.
Watch the Replay:
About Christel House
Christel House South Africa’s school in Cape Town stands as a beacon of hope on the Cape Flats, transporting students from abject poverty to becoming doctors, lawyers, engineers and upwardly mobile citizens. Its holistic education model enrols students at age 4, integrating rigorous academics with nutrition, healthcare, life skills, social support, and career guidance up until age 23. It is a 19-year journey that empowers students to realise their full potential.
Christel House is boldly expanding in South Africa and invites supporters to join its mission of transforming lives. £100 feeds 5 students for a month, £500 provides textbooks for a classroom, and £3,200 sponsors a student for entire year (from education and transport, to healthcare and daily nutritious meals). 100% of all donations directly benefit Christel House students, as overhead and fundraising costs are funded annually through a private foundation established by our late founder.
How to Support Christel House
To make a gift to Christel House’s registered charity in the UK, donations can be made online via JustGiving – Christel House Europe – JustGiving – and Paypal – Donate with PayPal Giving Fund.
To make a gift in South African Rand to our registered NPO in South Africa, kindly visit https://sa.christelhouse.org/donate.
Christel House also extends an invitation to all SA Chamber members and colleagues to visit their campus in Ottery, Cape Town, for an inspiring tour. To arrange a visit, please contact Francois Louw, Director of Corporate Partnerships, at flouw@christelhouse.org / +44 770 6336 171.
Click here, to sign up for Christel House’s newsletter in the UK.
