Vasco Makhamo is a bright and energetic 6-year-old boy living in the Thembelihle informal settlements with his parents. The family moved from Mozambique to South Africa in 2008, hoping for better employment opportunities and a brighter future. Like many others in similar circumstances, their journey was filled with challenges, but they remained hopeful that migration would offer their children better prospects.

Vasco has a younger sibling, a 3-year-old, and together they are growing up in an environment that’s both tough and inspiring. Despite living in an informal settlement, Vasco’s parents have worked hard to ensure that their children have access to education and opportunities to thrive.

Vasco attended the Early Childhood Development (ECD) program at Khaya Le Themba, a nurturing environment that helped him develop emotionally, socially, and academically. The program focuses on building a strong foundation for young learners, and Vasco graduated from it last year, marking a significant milestone in his educational journey.

Now, Vasco is enrolled in Grade 1, thanks to the guidance and mentorship from the Khaya Le Themba team. Our mentors played a crucial role in ensuring Vasco’s smooth transition into formal education, offering support to both him and his family. We are thrilled to see Vasco embark on this new chapter of his life, excited to witness his growth and success in school. With the continued support of Khaya Le Themba and his dedicated parents, Vasco is on track to achieve great things in his academic journey. We are proud to be a part of his path to success.