Raising Leaders, One Child at a Time: Inside Ubuntu Charity

At the heart of the Imizamo Yethu community in Cape Town, Ubuntu Charity has been quietly transforming lives for over six years. Founded by Silke Rylands, a German-born changemaker with a deep sense of justice and empathy, the organization is proof of how compassion, consistency, and community involvement can create lasting impact.

We had the chance to speak with Silke on The Morning Cruise to learn more about Ubuntu Charity’s beginnings, their impressive range of projects, and the inspiring young people who are now stepping into leadership roles within their own neighborhoods.

Silke first came to South Africa for work, but it was love—and a strong desire to give back—that anchored her here. “Coming from Germany, where poverty is not as visible, the contrast really struck me,” she explained. “I felt I had to do something.”

Her journey began humbly, in the backyard of an elderly woman in Imizamo Yethu named Mama Miriam. Together, they started a soup kitchen, with Silke preparing meals in her own home and delivering them in the back of a bakkie. What began as one act of kindness has since grown into a multi-faceted organization.

Today, Ubuntu Charity runs tuition programs, a soup kitchen, a community library, recycling initiatives, and even supports local entrepreneurs and small businesses. “Organizationally, it’s mostly just me,” Silke shared, laughing. From fundraising and administration to stock purchasing and lesson planning, she wears many hats—but never loses sight of Ubuntu’s mission.

Education has become the cornerstone of the organization’s work. “Education is the key,” she emphasized. “It’s not just about academics; it’s about creating a safe space, teaching values, and giving kids a vision for the future.”

Ubuntu Charity is not just helping children—it’s turning them into helpers. Kids who once benefitted from the program are now giving back. Silke proudly shared stories of 13-year-old Owen Balasana and 12-year-old Simon Vidkus, both of whom are involved in community projects like the soup kitchen and recycling initiatives. “It’s amazing to see how they’ve grown, both personally and academically,” Silke said.

The children in the program are learning far more than math and science. Through sports, yoga, drug prevention workshops, and guest-led creative sessions, they’re developing life skills, confidence, and a sense of responsibility toward their community. “It boosts their self-esteem and shows them that they matter, that they can make a difference.”

Silke admits that gaining the community’s trust took time. “At first, people were skeptical. They’d seen people come and go—taking photos and disappearing.” But her unwavering presence—rain or shine—won them over. “When they saw I was consistent, they started stepping in to help.”

Though most of the organization’s funding comes from Germany, Silke is now focused on a long-term goal: building a dedicated community center. After three and a half years, Ubuntu finally secured a piece of land. Now, they’re working hard to raise the funds needed to bring the vision to life.

Whether you’re in Cape Town or abroad, there are plenty of ways to support Ubuntu Charity—from volunteering with the children on Fridays, to helping out with outings or behind-the-scenes administration. “Even just offering a new activity or hobby for the kids on a Friday makes a big difference,” Silke said.

Ubuntu may have started as a simple act of service, but under Silke’s leadership, it has become a beacon of community-driven change. The message is clear: when children are given the tools and trust to lead, they can—and will—change the world.