People - the life and soul of Masi

In this section we take the opportunity to introduce you to some of the residents of Masi whom we have worked with, the people who make the community such an interesting and vibrant place. In the last edition you met some of our bursary students, here we introduce you to one of our business entrepreneurs whom MASICORP helped to set up her business.

Ndileka Biyo

Ndileka is Masi's very own seamstress supreme and fashion guru. She overcame difficult circumstances to educate herself and make a life for herself and her children despite, like many women in Masi, having to also be the main breadwinner of the household. Today she runs her own business and is well on the way to achieving her ambition of being a successful business woman. She also gives back by training local woman from the community to sew so they too can improve life for their own families. Spend any time in the company of Ndileka and you cannot help but be affected by her energy and enthusiasm - a true role model for the community.

To read more about Ndileka's life check out this great article on the Scenic South webpage...

http://www.scenicsouth.co.za/showcasing/our-achievers/

Jill Stirrup

We are also very delighted to tell you that Jill Stirrup, director of our bursary programme, has been awarded an MBE [Member of the British Empire] in the [UK] Queen’s Birthday Honours. Her citation reads: “For service to youth education in South Africa”. Jill, as many will know, was born in the UK and her work for MASICORP has been recognised with this honour. She has been with us for over 12 years and the impact of her work on the lives of the young people she has helped is immeasurable. In an statement for local Cape paper 'The Echo' Jill said, "My sentiment is very much that I accept this award on behalf of all the people doing things in Masiphumelele. It is team work". We are very proud to have her as part of our team.