Cheslin Kolbe Foundation partners with iSchoolAfrica and iStore to Empower Kraaifontein Learners

Petunia Primary School to Benefit from World-Class Educational Technology

Cheslin Kolbe Foundation is excited to announce its partnership with iStore and iSchoolAfrica to implement an innovative, technology-enhanced education programme at Petunia Primary School in Kraaifontein, Cape Town. The partnership aims to empower learners, teachers and the broader community through access to cutting-edge technology and classroom practices. The launch event took place at Petunia Primary School on Friday, 6 December 2024, marking the start of a journey to provide learners and educators with the tools they need to overcome challenges and unlock their full potential.

A Partnership Rooted in Empowerment

This collaboration draws on the inspirational journey of Cheslin Kolbe, who overcame a challenging upbringing in Kraaifontein, an area often associated with gang violence and poverty. Along with his wife, Layla, Cheslin established the Cheslin Kolbe Foundation to uplift communities and rewrite negative narratives through sports, education, and community development.

“Our vision is to empower children and communities to overcome challenges and reach their full potential, creating happy homes and thriving communities,” said Cheslin Kolbe. “iSchoolAfrica aligns closely with our mission to uplift and empower youth in our communities, and we are grateful to iStore for making this possible.”

Petunia Primary School, located just minutes from Kolbe’s childhood home, will be the first beneficiary of this initiative. The school, which serves over 780 children, stands to benefit greatly from the resources and expertise provided by iSchoolAfrica, an organisation dedicated to bridging educational gaps through technology.

Transformative Goals of the Partnership

The partnership between iSchoolAfrica, iStore, and CKF will focus on:

• Access to Education Technology: A mobile iPad lab equipped with 20 iPads will be provided to Petunia Primary, enhancing the classroom experience.
• Upskilling Educators: Teachers will receive professional training, mentorship, and ongoing support to integrate digital tools into their teaching practices.
• Empowering Learners: The programme aims to improve numeracy skills and prepare students to thrive in a digitally advanced world.
• Fostering Sustainable Impact: By equipping stakeholders with the necessary tools and training, the programme ensures a lasting impact on the community.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with the Cheslin Kolbe Foundation to empower children and communities to fulfill their true potential. Our solution is about no compromise – giving our youth the education they deserve. What better role model exemplifies quality performance at the highest level than Cheslin Kolbe?” said Michelle Lissoos, Executive Director of iSchoolAfrica. “This partnership underscores our shared commitment to making a meaningful, sustainable difference in the lives of South African youth.”

A Commitment to Excellence

iStore’s sponsorship includes funding for the mobile iPad lab, teacher training and mentorship, and curriculum relevant software. The integration of award-winning software and iPad technology into classrooms ensures an engaging and effective learning experience tailored to 21st-century needs.

“iPad is the chosen educational tool for schools around the world and iSchoolAfrica, now in its 15^th year of operations, continues to be our partner of choice to invest in South Africa’s most under-resourced schools. We are thrilled to be extend this partnership to Cheslin and Layla in giving back to a community which is so close to their hearts. We encourage other sponsors and mentors wanting to make a difference to teaching and learning to invest in the future of young South Africans through iSchoolAfrica,” says Chris Dodd, iStore CEO.

Together, iSchoolAfrica, iStore, and the Cheslin Kolbe Foundation are creating a legacy of hope and opportunity for the next generation, proving that with the right tools, every learner can thrive.