It is really such an honour to be named as one of the Mail & Guardian's Top 200 Young South Africans in 2014 who are inspiring others by what they create and not just buy what they say.
On Friday, 25 July 2014, it was announced that I was one of the 18 people having an impact in civil society.
I co-founded READ to RISE in 2013 with my husband, Athol Williams. I had decided to leave the corporate world and focus on youth literacy in poor communities. Literacy is a big problem in certain communities - some children have never owned a book before, some teachers are illiterate and some schools don't have good relevant books for children to read. I strongly believe that it all starts with being able to read - once you can read, you can be educated and then the world is your oyster.
It is wonderful to be recognised for the work that I can doing at READ to RISE. As Programme Director, I organise books for learners, I arrange the school visits and get Volunteer Readers to visit these schools. I am also responsible for marketing (social media, newletters, website, logo design, etc.). I also assist with fundraising. My days are filled with various activities, from designing posters for class lessons and writing thank you letters to sponsors to visiting schools and dealing with printing companies. I love what I do, it seems I work harder now that when I worked in corporate :) I feel that I am making a difference in society and there is nothing more rewarding that seeing the smiles on the children's faces when they get their books or getting a big hug from them!
This recognition has inspired me to keep doing what I am doing and even try harder! :)
No comments:
Post a Comment