Babalwa Educare was founded in 1998 by Nomntu Bidli with just five children, a number that has now grown to over 70. Nomntu was a domestic worker in Cape Town, and was motivated by the high rates of child abuse and unemployment in her community to dedicate her time in a way that would positively impact her friends and neighbours. Upon opening her crèche, Nomntu had reached a Grade 10 education level, and has since completed numerous training courses to further her education and skill set. She and her staff have trained in early childhood development, non-profit management, HIV/AIDS, and governing body workshops. She hopes to one day move into a larger space and take on more of Philippi’s children. Her most daunting challenges are the fluctuating staff of teachers whose inability to stay for longer periods forces her to retrain on a regular basis. She feels limited by her lack of formal education, but is eager to continuously learn more about the ECD sector and NPO management. Her first language is Xhosa, however, she has made great strides in learning English, which is helpful in applying for funds, and in working with SAEP’s volunteers. In 2008, Babalwa became registered to pay toward the South African Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), a step that will benefit its employees and support long term staffing stability.

Nomntu has a laptop for office use (donated by two Norwegian volunteers in 2008), and could benefit from additional computer training for herself and her teachers. She keeps careful financial records and has worked regularly with a financial consultant who helps with her annual auditing. The two SAEP volunteers use online media to raise awareness and funds for the centre.

In 2006, the centre received funds from the Department of Social Services through the Centre for Early Childhood Development (CECD) for the construction of a new wooden building. The crèche itself stands in the back yard of Nomntu’s home, and thus there is very little outdoor space for the children to play, which presents a challenge to principals and staff. Babalwa Educare is well equipped in terms of educational toys and materials, and is fortunate for its strong, secure structure, fence and child-friendly play area. Wings of Support gave Babalwa a grant in 2008, which supplied kitchen cupboards, floor tiles and the funds to repaint the structure. Last year, the Union of Jewish Women – a long-time supporter of Babalwa – organized a Christmas party for the children and staff, which everyone enjoyed immensely.