Imagine a Grade 4 child, nervously stepping onto the Digibus for the first time. The seat is unfamiliar, the screen in front of them daunting, and the task ahead—reading and learning in a foreign language—feels insurmountable. Now fast forward a few months: that same child is seated with quiet confidence, raising their hand to explain how coding can tell a story or solving a math problem with confidence. This transformation is the heartbeat of our year at VUSA—stories of courage, determination, and the extraordinary power of opportunity.

This term, we were honoured to welcome HRH Prince William to the Digibus during his Earthshot tour. His visit reminded us of the long road ahead to safeguard our planet but also reinforced the power of education to drive change. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) drive all our programs, and with the help of partners like ‘Lessons in Conservation’, run by an incredible group of Stellenbosch University students we are embedding these values into our lessons. From teaching conservation to showing children the small actions they can take to care for the planet, we are equipping the next generation with the knowledge and agency to make a difference.

Perhaps the greatest new value we’ve added to our program this year is the arrival of Sabelo Mlonyeni, our social worker. Our children are going through a lot—more than most of us can imagine. Whether it’s struggles at home, challenges at school, or simply the burden of growing up in difficult circumstances, they need someone to guide them through. Sabelo has brought a steady, compassionate presence, catching children who might otherwise fall through the cracks and supporting their families through particularly hard times. We are so grateful to have someone to fill this vital role.