Welcome to our latest update! As TREE celebrates 40 years of dedication to Early Childhood Development (1984–2024), we are thrilled to share the incredible milestones, global connections, and community transformations that have defined this past quarter.
“Remember the TREE, Water the TREE.”
Strengthening South Africa’s ECD Workforce
We proudly celebrated the graduation of 179 NQF Level 4 ECD practitioners. These graduates are now ready to contribute to the growth and sustainability of South Africa’s ECD sector as skilled professionals.
A strong ECD workforce is essential to achieving the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030. By empowering these practitioners with the right tools, we are investing in a brighter future for our children and the nation. We are so proud of our graduates and the positive change they will bring!
Mandela Day 2024: Creating a Brighter Learning Space
This Mandela Day, the TREE team focused on transforming ECD centers and toy libraries into vibrant, stimulating environments.
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Refurbishment: We brought classrooms to life with color to nurture young minds and foster creativity.
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Community Support: We provided lunch and brought smiles to 65 children at two ECD centers in the informal Briardene community.
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Teamwork: As a non-profit, our internal collaboration allowed us to achieve significant cost savings while maximizing impact.
A Big Win: Change in Action | NPO Fair
TREE was honored to be selected as one of 20 NPOs for the Change in Action NPO Fair, hosted by We Are Durban, Gateway Theatre of Shopping, and the Hollywood Foundation.
Beyond networking and building vital connections within the sector, TREE received a marketing kit worth R16,000. This prize will significantly strengthen our ability to promote our mission and reach more communities moving forward.
Kinderfonds MAMAS: Investing in Bright Futures
As we honor 40 years in the ECD space, we are deeply grateful for partners like Kinderfonds MAMAS, who have remained steadfast to our vision for nearly two decades.
Recently, MAMA Sylvia joined the TREE team for project briefings and site visits to key investment areas:
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Flagstaff, Eastern Cape: Showcasing playgroups and home visiting programs that provide safe learning environments in underserved areas.
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Centocow, KZN: Highlighting our Impact Project, which follows 20 children from their ECD setting all the way to university, demonstrating the long-term benefits of early mentoring and aftercare.
Mam’ Ruby on a Global Mission
Our Director, Mam’ Ruby, recently embarked on an international journey to champion ECD and youth empowerment:
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Canada (World Forum in ECCE): As a proud Ambassador, Mam’ Ruby delivered a compelling paper on the importance of increasing male participation in ECD to foster diverse and holistic learning environments.
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China (Children’s Popular Science): Exploring innovative strategies in science and technology to help our children excel in STEM fields.
Mam’ Ruby’s dedication continues to shape a more equitable future for children both nationally and internationally.
Words of Wisdom
“If the rhythm of the drum beat changes, the dance step must adapt.” — An African Proverb
