Isibani Sethemba, founded by Mabongi Gcabashe, is on a mission to bring positive change to Marina Secondary School in Seaview, a place close to her heart. As a former student, Gcabashe was moved by the deteriorating state of the school that once shaped her. This deep connection inspired her to rally like-minded individuals who shared her passion for creating a better learning environment for children in neglected communities. “What drives us is not just the need we see but the incredible potential within the community,” she explains, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to setting a positive example for learners and highlighting the impact of each success story.
When Gcabashe and her team visited Marina Secondary School, they were confronted with severe infrastructure issues. From broken windows and dilapidated classrooms to the lack of proper sanitation, the school’s condition posed serious risks to students’ health and learning experience. Overcrowded classrooms, leaking roofs, and the absence of basic facilities like proper seating further complicate the academic environment. “Access to safe sanitation is not merely a matter of convenience but a fundamental human right,” Gcabashe emphasizes, noting the challenges faced by female learners who lack access to menstrual hygiene products.
Despite these conditions, Marina Secondary School has managed to maintain a pass rate of over 80%. Gcabashe attributes this success to the resilience and adaptability of the learners and teachers. “The key takeaway word from one of the learners was adaptability,” she recalls. “Both teachers and children have learned to adapt to their environment.” The teachers’ commitment through after-school programs and study camps, as well as the motivational support from the principal, plays a crucial role in this success.
In response to these challenges, Isibani Sethemba has laid out plans to address the school’s infrastructure issues. One of their immediate goals is to complete the construction of an unfinished building structure initiated by the Department of Basic Education in 2019. This project aimed to add three more classrooms but was never completed. The organization plans to raise funds for this and engage with the department to ensure the project aligns with their Accelerated School Infrastructure Delivery Initiative (ASIDI). Gcabashe is determined to seek answers and form collaborative efforts to bring this vision to fruition.
Gcabashe envisions Isibani Sethemba’s work positively impacting not only the students and teachers but also the broader community. “We are the children of the very soil (community). We are an example of charity begins at home, and we want to inspire the youth to keep the spirit of Ubuntu alive,” she says. The organization draws strength from the support and encouragement of the local community, reinforcing its commitment to keep God at the forefront of its journey.
Isibani Sethemba is actively engaging with the local community and stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of its projects. While discussions are still ongoing, the organization respects the community’s protocols and seeks approval to build strong relationships. Collaboration remains at the heart of their strategy. Gcabashe believes in the power of unity, quoting, “It takes a village to raise a child.” She emphasizes the importance of joining forces with like-minded organizations, individuals, and even celebrities to amplify their impact. By leveraging collective strengths, resources, and networks, Isibani Sethemba aims to create a larger, lasting influence in Seaview.
Isibani Sethemba’s commitment to transforming Marina Secondary School showcases the power of community-driven initiatives. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering passion, the organization aims to restore not just a building but the hopes and dreams of the students and the entire community.
“We would like to thank the school, teachers, learners and the SGB team for the heart warming welcome they gave us.” – she adds
