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In memory of Sandile Nkohla 03 February 1995 – 01 January 2026 There are no small roles at VUSA. What we have built over the years is not one programme or one idea. It is an ecosystem. A network of people, routines, relationships and care that, together, create a space where children feel safe, seen and supported every day. When one part of that system shifts, the impact is felt far beyond what we expect. We felt that deeply on New Years’ Day with the passing of Sandile Nkohla. Sandile was our caretaker. Quiet, consistent, and without fail, he showed up. He worked harder than most, often behind the scenes, making sure spaces were ready, equipment was in place, and the environment our children walked into each afternoon felt welcoming and cared for. We recognised his dedication, but it was only in his absence that we fully understood the scale of what he carried. His loss was not just operational. It was personal. It was felt by staff, by coaches, and by the children who may not have known his name but knew the spaces he held together. We try, as an organisation, to check in with our staff and our children. We work in a community that is full of life, energy and resilience, but also one where trauma is part of daily reality. And sometimes, despite our best efforts, the weight of that becomes too much. This is how our year began; with loss. reflection and a reminder of just how much each person matters. As we moved through the term, what has stood out is the strength of this system because while one piece was missing, others stepped forward. This term has seen the continued growth of our afterschool programme, where children arrive each day to a space that offers far more than just activity. It’s a place of routine, learning, belonging and care. Rugby fields filled with energy. Classrooms focused on Maths, English and Coding. A library that is now open and in full use, with books not only serving our afterschool children but which also reach our ECD centres. One of the most exciting developments this term has been the introduction of the Supportive Empowering Educational Development (SEED) programme in partnership with Project Playground. This structured approach to numeracy and literacy is already strengthening how we support children academically, giving facilitators clearer tools and children a stronger foundation to build from. Behind this, there has been quiet but important progress. Staff stepping into new roles, training underway and systems being strengthened. A growing sense of ownership across the team. It is a reminder that while individuals are irreplaceable, the culture of care, commitment and accountability we are building together, allows the work to continue. We carry Sandile with us in that work. In the spaces we prepare. In the standards we hold. In the understanding that every role matters. As we move further into the year, our focus remains the same: to build a consistent, safe and inspiring environment where children can learn, grow and believe in what is possible for their future. Because at VUSA, it is never just one person or one programme. It is all of us, showing up, every day. Kind Regards Brendan, Nikki, Tarah and the VUSA Team
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