In a world where knowledge is power, reading is the key, and for over three decades, Living Through Learning has been handing out those keys, one child at a time.
Founded on the legacy of international NGO Education Alive and rooted in the vision of pioneering educator Sonja Botha, Living Through Learning has evolved into a proudly South African organization with a laser focus: building strong literacy foundations in early education, especially in underserved communities. Since becoming an independent initiative in 2010, the organization has reached over 150,000 learners and trained more than 700 educators. And they’re just getting started.
We recently sat down with Dagny Baleson, General Manager of Living Through Learning, to talk about the heart of the organization, the magic of their unique approach to literacy, and an upcoming Easter event that’s bound to bring joy to learners and community members alike.
A Movement Rooted in Literacy
“Living Through Learning is more than just a program,” Dagny explained. “It’s an empire dedicated to revitalizing literacy among learners and educators in disadvantaged communities.”
At the heart of their approach is the Reading Adventure Room, a specialized classroom transformed into a vibrant, immersive space that turns reading into a magical journey. Equipped with digital tools, age-appropriate books, educational materials, and trained facilitators, these rooms bring learning to life through role-play, song, storytelling, and games.
“We’ve designed an intervention-based curriculum that supports what the Western Cape Department of Education is already doing,” Dagny said. “We break down barriers to learning by clarifying difficult words, introducing step-by-step literacy instruction, and using physical objects and activities that engage children’s imagination.”
This method isn’t just playful, it’s powerful. In just the past 12 years, Living Through Learning’s curriculum has improved literacy rates by up to 80% in participating schools. It’s helped more than 500 students go on to access tertiary education or secure employment: an extraordinary achievement in a country where 80% of grade four learners struggle to read for meaning.
Easter Drive: Learning Through Joy
On Wednesday, April 16th at 12 PM, Living Through Learning is inviting the public and media to witness a joyful moment of community spirit: an Easter Drive at Valhalla Primary School, where foundation phase learners will be surprised by a life-size Easter Bunny, storytime, and (of course) Easter eggs.
“The idea is to promote a culture of reading, but to do it in a way that’s fun and memorable,” said Dagny. “One of our facilitators will wear the bunny costume, there’ll be a short Easter story read aloud, and we’ll hand out marshmallow eggs to the kids. It’s something they’ll remember, and associate with books and learning.”
While this event is by invitation at Valhalla Primary, media are encouraged to attend and capture the magic. And for those wondering, yes: every one of Living Through Learning’s partner schools will receive their own visit from the Easter Bunny later in the week.
“Events like these help make literacy feel exciting,” Dagny shared. “When you pair reading with theatre, with creativity, with celebration, it opens the door for kids to fall in love with stories. That love becomes the foundation for lifelong learning.”
This approach isn’t limited to holidays either. From International Literacy Day to International Book Giving Day, the organization regularly hosts vibrant literacy events. In one recent celebration, they brought in live theatre with actress Nikki Jackman to perform for learners who had never seen a live show before - an experience that combined art, story, and the simple joy of receiving a new book.
Looking Ahead: Literacy Goals for 2025 and Beyond
What’s next for Living Through Learning? Two words: expansion and impact.
This June, the organization will be opening a new Reading Adventure Room at West End Primary School in Mitchells Plain. “We’re constantly working to grow,” Dagny explained. “We want to double our schools, reach more learners, and ultimately expand to a national level. But we need funding, resources, and support to do that.”
And while large-scale donations are always welcome, smaller contributions matter just as much. Whether it’s books, time, or social media shares, the organization thrives on community support.
Why It Matters
When asked what fuels her passion, Dagny didn’t hesitate. “I believe in the bigger picture. That if we focus on early education, we’re building a more equal and peaceful society. Literacy is that powerful.”
In a country where 60% of learners aren’t school-ready by Grade 1, and the majority struggle to read by Grade 4, the work of Living Through Learning is nothing short of transformative.
So whether you’re attending the Easter Drive, donating a book, or simply making reading part of your nightly routine, know this: you’re part of a movement that is changing lives - one word at a time.
Written by Ryan Growney
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