32 Acquisition International - Non-Profit Organisation Awards 2023 Apr23093 Best Sport & Physical Education Charity 2023 - UK As a multi-award-winning UK based charity, The Bambisanani Partnership encapsulates the meaning of union between countries. Originally established as a collaboration between St. Mary’s Catholic School in Menston, UK, and Mnyakanya High School in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, this admirable organisation has conquered the worldwide educational barrier. We look into how it uses the power of sport to evolve the world’s approach towards education. ince its initial inception in 2006, The Bambisanani Partnership has made great strides towards changing the way we think about non-profit organisations. It places an immense emphasis on collaboration over charity, and has expanded its reach throughout the years to fully convey its keen awareness of how crucial making connections across the globe is. What was once a simple, yet inspired, partnership between two schools soon developed into a collaborative effort involving over 30 schools, colleges, and universities throughout both the UK and South Africa. Thanks to its support from renowned universities such as the University of Leeds and Leeds Trinity University, this brilliant organisation has been able to spread the word in terms of promoting education through sport. It recognises the positive impact that sport can have in shaping attitudes, values and behaviours. The exemplary work promoting leadership and global citizenship broadens the horizons of all involved. What drives The Bambisanani Partnership forward, however, is the unfortunate statistics that accompany a plethora of disadvantaged communities within rural South Africa. Specifically in Nkandla, where over 90% of its populace are unemployed due to its deprivation in education and healthcare, The Bambisanani Partnership seeks to provide collaborative learning opportunities for young people from both countries. And, over the past 17 years, it’s been able to include over 12,000 young people in its programmes and projects, where learning is conveyed through the universal language of sport. And, as a result of its purely volunteer-led operations, The Bambisanani Partnership has managed to outstretch its reach throughout both the UK and South Africa, whilst strongly adhering to its core values along the way. It closely engages with the local communities within South Africa with a clear goal in mind: to promote collaborative learning through sport, whilst fostering empowerment and independence. The Bambisanani Partnership isn’t interested in creating temporary solutions, but helping a wide array of people in gaining life skills that will allow them to excel and thrive on their own merit. Of course, with such a selfless mission at its core, The Bambisanani Partnership has garnered an immense amount of respect from, not only its partners, but leading voices around the world. From worldwide conferences mentioning its astounding deeds, to the Global Sport for All Summit, hosted at the Vatican, recognising its dedication, this organisation has clearly made an undeniable impact that’s changing lives for the better. It’s an organisation that knows no bounds, and will stop at nothing to encourage brilliance from those who may have never otherwise stood a chance. S We believe Dr Jo Harris of Loughborough University puts it best when she states that “The Bambisanani Partnership represents a truly authentic approach to educating children about health, global citizenship, and leadership. This inspirational partnership clearly has the power to change lives for the good and develop long-standing friendships across nations…”, whilst students from South Africa express how “We have worked together… People of different colours, countries, religions, and cultures. We have proved it can be done”. The Bambisanani Partnership stands a shining beacon of hope for those wanting to encourage change. It proves that unity between cultures, regardless of the distance, is more than just possible – it’s essential to developing lasting friendships and independent solutions for young people across the globe. As a result of its hard work and determination, this organisation has managed to reform what it means to help others, and the future is definitely bright for The Bambisanani Organisation and its partners alike. Contact: David Geldart, Founder/CEO Company: The Bambisanani Partnership Web Address: bambisananipartnership.org
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