Thandanani Children’s Foundation is working in different areas and is commonly known in these communities. One of these areas in Richmond is in Inhlazuka. It is a deep rural sight, situated in the hills, with low infrastructure and long walking distances. It is difficult in Inhlazuka to get access to good health services.

In April 2008 TCF was approached by Thuthukisa High School in Inhlazuka that informed us about one of their pupils called Thokozani Jila*. He is 16 years old and attending Grade 10. Due to his albinism he has got a visual problem and was under performing in school. He could not read or see what was written on the chalkboard and in the textbooks. He could barely read a book at 10 centimeters from his eyes. Even though Thokozani is not an orphan TCF decided to support him, as he is a vulnerable child and also his parents are both unemployed and facing alcoholism problems.

TCF referred Thokozani to an optometrist in Pietermaritzburg, where he went to have an eye-test in May this year. As a result he received special glasses that were officially handed over to him in June 2008 in Thuthukisa High School.

Thokozani expressed his gratitude for Thandanani’s support and now being able to see properly. The school has since reported that his performance in school has greatly improved and he is now doing well. As Thandanani we are happy if we can make a difference in children’s lives and help to give them good education to face a future with possibilities.

* Not his real name