In 2010 Matjana Preschool finally started building its very own classroom. We were given land from the umphakatsi (chiefdom) after receiving a donation of E11,000. The money was raised by four Irish tourists, who said visiting our preschool was the most...

  Matjana’s third year saw increasing support from international volunteers. Our outdoor play area got a boost when the Bowen family came and built a set of swings (which the kids are still swinging on). Canadian photographer Lisa volunteered at the preschool and...

    Despite the lack of classroom space, in 2008 we decided there was room for another three children. Cramming them in was better than sending them home! We employed a second local teacher, Fortunate, when Michelle had to leave and get a ‘real job’.  ...

  In 2007, 19 children enrolled and Matjana Preschool opened its door for the first time. One local woman (teacher Ncobile who had then just graduated from high school) was employed as the preschool teacher and Michelle, an Australian volunteer helped her in the...