Play an active role in the development of young children at this world famous children's home based in Khayelitsha township close to Cape Town. AVIVA volunteers have played an important role at this home since June 2004, and have collectively contributed much to Baphumelele's ongoing transformation...

Baphumelele is a Children’s Home, which houses approximately 100 children ranging in age from new born to 18 years. The word Baphumelele in Xhosa means, “Progress”. Rosie Mashale established the Home in 2001 as a care centre for abused and abandoned children.

Baphumelele provides a safe haven and loving home for these children who would otherwise face a life on the streets. Unlike other Homes, Baphumelele does not discriminate against children on age or medical grounds, accepting all children who are in need. Today Rosie is assisted by a number of caregivers who cover a 24-hour shift, 7 days a week between them. Rosie and the caregivers are mainly of Xhosa and Sotho origin.

Visits from Beyonce Knowles, U2's Bono, the Manchester United football team and Sir Elton John have provided Baphumelele with much needed publicity, though, with only one care giver per ten children, they still have a real need for volunteers who are able to assist with child development, laundry, washing, feeding, homework, food collection and a variety of other tasks.

Volunteers will stay in the Khayelitsha township for 3 to 4 nights every week (the remaining nights at AVIVA House) for a unique combination of cultural experiences. Although the living conditions at Baphumelele are basic and there are many problems for them to overcome, you cannot fail to be affected by the children’s positive outlook on life and the dedication of the permanent staff members who are there every day of each week.

This is a very special project that will suit emotionally mature volunteers who are looking to make a positive difference to a wonderful group of young children.

What's included?

• Cape Town Airport collection and drop-off.
• A welcome brief from a member of the AVIVA team.
• A Welcome Pack complete with many useful items that will help you settle in and an opportunity to let your friends or family know you have arrived safely.
• An embroidered AVIVA Fleece.
• Accommodation at AVIVA House and at Baphumelele Children’s Home.
• Self-service breakfasts for the duration of your stay.
• Transfers between AVIVA House and Baphumelele.
• A donation to Baphumelele (payable by AVIVA).
• A full-day Peninsula tour which includes lunch, visits to Hout Bay, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Point, Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach Penguin Colony and much more. An incredible day rich with history and some of the world’s most beautiful scenery.
• A half-day Cultural tour, a fascinating introduction to South Africa’s recent political history before and after Apartheid. Includes highlights of Khayelitsha, South Africa’s second largest township after Soweto.
• A full-day tour to the Cape Winelands including the Paarl, Franschoek and Stellenbosch regions. Wine tastings and lunch are included.
• Advice and support from our experienced team during your stay.
• Our booking service for attractions, events and tours.
• An attractive certificate recognising your contribution to the Baphumelele Project.
• If required, extra nights can be added to your stay to meet your flight dates for only R120 per night. This may help you to take advantage of any cheaper flights that arrive in Cape Town before your planned arrival date.