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Our name is a representation of “MaAfrika”, the mothering, empowering African atmosphere, mixed with the word “tikkun” which loosely translated means change or transformation in Hebrew. Together, the Jewish value of Tzeddakah (compassion, caring and helping) and the African value of Ubuntu (community warmth and sharing) encompass the vision of this NGO, which is to care for vulnerable children in townships in a compassionate manner that is sustainable over time.
South Africa is still in the midst of political, social and economical transformation. It has overcome many of the problems it faced as a new democracy in 1994. However, many challenges remain and MaAfrika Tikkun is playing a part in making a meaningful difference to the upliftment of previously disadvantaged and impoverished people in South Africa.
 MaAfrika Tikkun is a symbol of hope for those who want to progress in life, but up until now have not had the means to do so. We are the bridge between government and private sector services in that our goal is to create community centers and embark on community projects that allow the community (within a period of 5 years) to then take ownership of the project and to continue with it. We place a high value / premium on local relevance, which is manifested by our contribution to the quality of life in South Africa. In doing so, we are sensitive to the national needs and social and cultural contexts of the regions in which we operate.
Of major concern to MaAfrika Tikkun is the large number of Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVCs).
The many informal communities developing on the outskirts of big cities are another growing concern. The lack of infrastructure in these areas leads to the exacerbation of the problem. Unemployment is high, and parental illness or death because of HIV/AIDS and other diseases has left children orphaned or vulnerable.
MaAfrika Tikkun believes in sustainable collaboration. We initiate new projects and partnerships (local, national and international) and spearhead and focus the necessary commitment to relevant self-sustaining and empowering projects.
We are growing every year. Our annual turnover is R30 million, up from R10 million last year but this is a drop in the ocean in comparison to the cost of the building and services that need to be carried out to uplift the communities with which we work. We are expanding and sustaining our projects in the Western Cape and Gauteng Provinces of South Africa. We spend a certain amount will be spent on the actual building of the community centres at each site, and more money on the operating costs.
In addition, we have highly respected boards in South Africa, the UK, Australia and the USA and appropriate due corporate governance procedures are in place.
We hope this overview of our activities permits you a window into an organization that is a HELPING HAND rather than a HAND OUT.
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Chief Patron
Nelson Mandela
The Children of South Africa
A beautiful photographic journey
of the diverse children
of South Africa,
to be launched just before
the 2010 World Cup,
all proceeds going
to MaAfrika Tikkun.
Click here to order and
get more information.
thechildrenofsouthafrica.org
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