Building Futures from the Ground Up: A Conversation with Tracy Fortune from ELRU

This morning on Morning Cruise, we were honored to speak with Tracy Fortune, the passionate and dedicated CEO of the Early Learning Resource Unit (Elru). With over 50 years of experience supporting early childhood development (ECD) in South Africa, Elru con

tinues to be a vital force in transforming young lives—especially in under-resourced communities like Gugulethu, Nyanga, and Crossroads.

From the very beginning of our conversation, Tracy’s love for children and unwavering belief in the power of early learning were crystal clear. “If we don’t get the foundation right,” she explained, “we will continue to see the long-term impact: high dropout rates, poor literacy, and a generation of youth unable to thrive.”

Tracy stressed that the first seven years of a child’s life are critical—not just for individual development, but for society at large. With 80% of South African Grade 4 learners unable to read for meaning, and nearly 50% dropping out before completing school, the stakes are high. Early learning programs don’t just prepare children for school—they combat long-term issues like poverty, violence, and unemployment.

“You can’t fix the economy if you don’t fix early childhood development,” Tracy quoted economist Paul Romer. Her message was clear: ECD isn’t charity—it’s nation-building.

One of the key ways Elru supports this vision is through its Centre Support Programme (CSP). This initiative helps ECD centres become safe, sustainable spaces where quality learning can happen. Elru offers everything from infrastructure upgrades to training for practitioners and assistance with health and safety compliance.

In areas where many caregivers are unqualified and centres lack basic resources, Elru steps in with hands-on support. They also guide centres through the process of becoming registered, which allows them to access government subsidies—crucial funding that can mean the difference between survival and closure.

Despite the obvious importance of ECD, Tracy explained that funding remains one of the sector’s biggest challenges. Many centres struggle just to stay open, let alone grow or innovate. “We need more people to understand that early childhood development is the key to solving many of our country's most pressing problems,” Tracy urged.

To help close this gap, Elru is hosting a fundraising event at the Baxter Theatre on June 8th—a night filled with performance and purpose. Proceeds will go directly toward sustaining and expanding Elru’s work in vulnerable communities.

Listeners who want to support Elru can do so in many ways. Donations—whether financial or in-kind—are always welcome. Educational toys, nutritious food, and learning materials make a real difference in children’s daily lives. You can also volunteer, spread awareness, or attend their upcoming event.

For more information or to get involved, contact Elru at 021 762 7500.

Written by Camille De Vos

Presenters: Khusi, Ryan & Camille