A collaborative journey with BBD, Umuzi and Kariega Foundation

The Kariega Foundation is dedicated to protecting the biodiversity of the Eastern Cape while uplifting local communities. It runs innovative programmes that combine environmental education, youth development and enterprise support to create a positive relationship between people and nature.

One standout initiative is the Library Computer Hub, sponsored by BBD, which provides local learners with access to technology, internet and digital literacy training. This programme introduces students to coding and robotics, opening pathways to IT careers that can support conservation efforts and community development.

BBD’s role: Bridging technology and opportunity

BBD’s involvement began with sponsoring computer libraries at Kariega Foundation to expose young learners to technology and digital resources. However, a key challenge emerged: what happens to these students after matric?

BBD Executive Thabang Ledwaba, explains, “Lindy Sutherland from Kariega Foundation was concerned that while we could expose the kids to technology, there wasn’t a clear route for them after matric.” To address this, BBD partnered with Umuzi, an organisation that offers remote learnerships that enables students to access high-quality digital skills training across South Africa without relocating.

“For me, Umuzi made sense because it’s a remote learnership, which means they can use the computer labs to access Umuzi while still being in the Eastern Cape,” says Ledwaba.

BBD funds Kariega Foundation, which then works with Umuzi to deliver a tailored learnership programme focused on students strong in maths and science. The programme requires no prior IT experience, as Umuzi teaches everything from the ground up.

Importantly, students receive a stipend during their studies, providing financial support that is crucial in the Eastern Cape.

“For a place like the Eastern Cape, to get a stipend is huge. So, we’re providing education and funding at the same time,” Ledwaba adds.

This initiative creates a “golden thread” of opportunity, linking early exposure to technology in primary school through to meaningful career pathways after matric.

“We want every learner to have real options for their future,” Ledwaba emphasises.

Umuzi: Unlocking high-value careers in tech

Since 2019, BBD has partnered with Umuzi to address South Africa’s shortage of skilled female coders. Umuzi offers 12-month learnerships that prepare young people for careers in web development, data science, and user experience design. Through this partnership, BBD has supported 18 women to become junior full-stack web developers.

For learners like Lisakhanya Gumengi and Lukhanyiso Jibilise, the partnership between BBD, the Kariega Foundation, and Umuzi has opened exciting new possibilities.

Gumengi, from the Ekuphumleni community, discovered Umuzi while using the library computers. “I love reading, solving math quizzes and coding,” she shares. “Before the programme, I was job hunting. This opportunity is helping me become a successful coder and build a meaningful career. I want to create tools that have never existed and make them accessible to underserved communities.”

Jibilise, originally from Peddie’s Mgababa Location and now based in Kenton-on-Sea, says his passion for reading and writing led him to coding. “I came across Umuzi at the library and knew it was the right fit. Before the programme, I was teaching myself to code. Now, I’m growing both personally and professionally. I want to bring ideas to life, solve real-world problems, and be a role model – especially for youth in underdeveloped areas.”

These stories reflect how access, opportunity, and support can unlock potential and create ripple effects far beyond individual success.

Broader impact: Community upliftment and biodiversity preservation

At Kariega Foundation, conservation efforts are linked with programmes like permaculture gardens and youth sports leagues, fostering social and environmental wellbeing. Meanwhile, Umuzi’s digital skills training supports South Africa’s broader goals of digitisation and job creation.

For BBD, these collaborations reflect a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability. By investing in technology education and community upliftment, BBD is fostering innovation while creating lasting positive impact on people and the planet.

The partnership between BBD, Kariega Foundation, and Umuzi continues to grow, with plans to expand IT pathways and reach more students across the Eastern Cape and beyond. Umuzi aims to support hundreds more young people nationally in entering high-value digital careers.

This spirit drives the transformative work of BBD, Umuzi and the Kariega Foundation – building brighter futures for individuals while safeguarding our shared natural heritage.