STELLENBOSCH
WESTERN CAPE
Four hundred engineering students walk the streets of Klapmuts, Kayamandi and Jamestown – pursuing practical solutions for real-life challenges. Here is a place where yesterday and tomorrow meet.
The Stellenbosch region is one of South Africa’s most sought-after tourist destinations, known for its oak-lined streets, a wealth of history, beautiful architecture and rolling vineyards. Also home to the 150-year old Stellenbosch University, the town is fast emerging as a hub of knowledge and innovation where solutions are being sought to address both some of the most exciting opportunities and complex issues facing our country today. Amongst academia, business and communities, there is a growing move towards intentional network-building for the purpose of benefiting generations to come.
The Stellenbosch municipal area includes a rich variety of suburbs and settlements, including Jamestown, Klapmuts, Kayamandi, Idas Valley and Cloetesville – and extends all the way along the Dwarsrivier Valley (Kylemore and surrounds) to Franschhoek. We created this page to share the stories that span multiple areas within Stellenbosch, such as collaboration initiatives with NGOs and opportunities created for the university’s students to learn more about social impact within their respective fields.
Places that shape: Inspiring tomorrow’s leaders today
The future of every nation is held within the fragile hands of its children. How else can we build the future? In the end, all the greatest monuments of a nation, its structures, streets, and systems, would be left empty without the people that inhabit them, and most...
When women join forces, communities thrive
‘Imagine with me towns where people are not just surviving, but flourishing. Where dignity is restored. Where every child sees a future. That is what we pursue. That is what we build. That is what we call THRIVE.’ – Sithembiso Malevu, Chief Executive Officer,...
Klapmuts – a journey of partnership, progress and possibility
A small gathering at a school library in early 2016 marked the beginning of Ranyaka's journey in the community of Klapmuts. Fifteen residents and stakeholders met to discuss a shared vision for the area, laying the groundwork for future planning and development. This...
Building confidence and community: the story of Elate Beauty
With her bright, beautiful smile and sunny personality, Sanelisiwe Kanqu wants nothing more than to make her clients feel confident and happy. A qualified somatologist, her goal is to offer inclusive, affordable beauty and spa services to a diverse clientele through...
Cultivating connections: from green fingers to thriving business
This story is, at its core, about connection and collaboration. Networks unlock partnerships, leverage skills, and amplify impact across communities. When we link individuals and communities through shared goals and resources, we create resilient futures. We drive...
The heart of Kasilam Wear: Samkela Mhlakaza’s entrepreneurial journey
Humble beginnings proved to be no obstacle in the entrepreneurial journey of Samkela "Teddy" Mhlakaza. Today, Samkela is the Managing Director of Kasilam Wear, a clothing company based in Kayamandi township in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. With his warm, friendly, and...