Bringing Hope. Restoring Dignity.
Creating Opportunity.

South Africa is a land of contrasts—breathtakingly beautiful and deeply complex. Known for its diversity and resilience, it is also marked by inequality, poverty, and the long-lasting effects of systemic injustice. In the midst of this, the Khayamandi Foundation sees potential, purpose, and people worth investing in.

Our mission in South Africa is rooted in a belief that every person deserves a place to belong, a path to opportunity, and a reason to hope. That’s why we’ve committed to walking alongside communities in and around Knysna and Sedgefield—supporting local leaders and investing in sustainable change, one life at a time.

Our Why

1

No child should grow up forgotten or afraid

2

Education opens doors that poverty tries to keep shut

3

Sustainable skills offer a lifetime of opportunity

4

Every person deserves to feel safe, seen and valued

5

Restoring dignity is just as important as meeting physical needs

Knysna & Surrounding Townships

A center of deep need – and deep potential.

Orphan Care & Safe Housing

Many children are abandoned, neglected, or orphaned—left on doorsteps or at social service offices. That’s why we partnered with Penny and Ella, two local women who have rescued dozens of children. When they said, “We need a house,” we helped build Lukhanyiso Safe House—a sanctuary where children find safety, love, and a sense of belonging.

Education & Scholarships

But in South Africa, many students drop out—not because they lack ability, but because they lack food, transportation, or basic support. That’s why Khayamandi provides scholarships, tuition assistance, and essential living support—removing barriers so students can stay in school and shape a better future.

 

Skills Development

We partner with Hands and Heart Skills Development program offering 2 semester sessions yearly that equips 40-50 young men and women each year with skills in carpentry, welding, electrical work, and life skills. We also help sponsor full-time instructors and staff to ensure the program delivers consistent, high-quality training.

Sports as a Lifeline

When gangs began recruiting youth from local schools, a truce was proposed—in exchange for sports. We said yes. Khayamandi now funds 11 senior soccer teams in Knysna and 2 in Sedgefield, each led by a local coach. The impact? Better school attendance, improved grades, a sharp decline in gang activity, and renewed hope for a brighter future.

Discipleship

We partner with Youth For Christ to support in-school discipleship, helping students discover their identity in Christ. We support Hope HQ, where students grow spiritually through daily devotions. We also sponsor chaplains who provide ongoing discipleship for coaches and players in our soccer program.

Eleazer’s Story

Meet Eleazer, a previous student at Hands and Heart Development Center who was actively pursuing his path to becoming an electrician. Hearing him share this goal was such a joy during our time in Knysna, South Africa. This effort highlights the great work being done at the center, empowering these students with skills and connecting them to vital employment opportunities after graduation. Today, Eleazer is enjoying working for a Cabinet building company where he can use his skills learned at Hands and Heart!

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Our Impact in South Africa

While statistics like these are vital for measuring growth, we understand our impact is truly exponential. The most profound effect is the ‘ripple effect’ of transformation, where the empowerment of a single person strengthens their family and ignites positive change throughout their whole community.

400+

Registered Soccer Players

Participated on Junior and Senior teams in 2025

98

Hope HQ Skills Participants

Enrolled in skills classes in 2025

12

Orphaned Children

Cared for by the Lukhanyiso Safe House