iThemba Labantu - What we do

Against the backdrop of a very challenging surrounding, iThemba Labantu strives to deliver excellent services in a warm and caring environment. Working in partnership with youth, job seekers and educators we aim to access the strengths and talents of our community to build a brighter future.

Philippi is one of the largest former townships in the Western Cape, with a history and progress linked to the discriminatory policies of apartheid. 

Located 30 kilometers from Cape Town, Philippi is a densely populated neighborhood with an estimated 450 000 people living in an area of approximately 25 square kilometers. There is widespread poverty and unemployment, and limited access to housing with many residents continuing to living in collapsible ‘shacks’ as opposed to brick houses - often without adequate access to running water and toilets. 

In a dangerous country, Philippi has one of the highest murder rates, with residents exposed to daily extremes of violence. In addition to this Philippi faces social challenges linked to poverty: alcoholism and drug abuse, prevalence of HIV/AIDS and TB, and inadequate access to health care and education.