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Six years of empowering communities and changing lives

At present, YAMI supports seven community programs, including the BCF, with whom they recently joined hands.

Photos provide by Thea Mitchell. Read our disclaimer here.

The Young Adult Mentorship Initiative, or YAMI, has been a source of change and optimism in the Barberton community since 2018. YAMI has carried out transformative programs that enhance living conditions, boost self-esteem, and develop future leaders who actively contribute to society by emphasising youth empowerment and community upliftment.

Under the direction of a committed Board of Trustees, all of whom serve pro bono, and a full-time Project Manager, Thea Mitchell, YAMI guarantees efficient governance, performance, and openness in all endeavours. “Every project is carefully designed to offer tangible returns on investment for our valued sponsors, who play a pivotal role in sustaining this work,” Mitchell said.

At Present YAMI support seven community programs that include the Barberton Community Forum who recently joined hands with YAMI.

Tinyoni sewing training programs
Those who are passionate about passing their sewing talents on can do so through the Tinyoni Sewing Project. From the very first day, participants get practical experience thanks to the course's step-by-step approach. Instructors with extensive expertise in a variety of sewing techniques and styles are a source of great pride for the project.

“Whether they are complete novices or aspiring fashion designers, aspiring sewers may learn all the basics and more in our dynamic, hands-on lessons and workshops,” Mitchell said. Inspiring students discover who they are and create their own unique sewing techniques within the context of fashion and design, the curriculum prioritises technical skill development while simultaneously fostering creativity and self-expression.

Each student is given a sewing machine to use during the course, and the academy provides high-quality course materials that cover both theory and practical knowledge. Students also have access to practice fabrics, which allow them to experiment with different materials and designs.

By the end of the course, students will have mastered the art of garment repair and can sew basic outfits, opening doors to new prospects for earning money and developing their entrepreneurial spirit.

The Tinyoni Sewing Project provides a welcoming space for students of all abilities, whether they are just starting out or are thinking about a future in the fashion industry.

Mitchell further stated that sponsorship makes a real difference by teaching people new skills, increasing their self-esteem, and opening doors to better futures via the medium of sewing. She manages this project with the help of two volunteers, Florence Gumede, en Angel Maziya.

Imbali dignity project
During her menstrual cycle, every girl deserves dignity above all else. In order to help schoolgirls, maintain personal cleanliness, self-esteem, and the ability to focus on their education, YAMI gives out ‘Dignity Buckets’ as part of the Imbali project.

All of the buckets contain:
-Carry bag for school use;
-Reusable sanitary towels (6);
-Instructional pamphlets for care and hygiene;
-Hygiene essentials, such as soap, Ziploc bags, and more.

Each bucket can last for up to a year, and it only costs R200. Your support can make a significant and quantifiable difference, as eight schools have been identified as beneficiaries.

Phakama backpack project
Locally produced backpacks, crafted with care by graduates of the Tinyoni Sewing project, are bringing both durability and dignity to school children in need. Made from strong rip stop canvas, these quality bags are distributed to learners identified through partnerships with local schools. It is more than just a practical school supply, each backpack represents hope, pride, and the drive to succeed. Sponsors also have the option to brand the bags, and each one is available at a cost of R200.

Arts and crafts healing project
In partnership with the Barberton Recovery Centre, this initiative uses creative therapy to support individuals on their journey to recovery. Through hands-on activities such as soap making and working with paper boxes, participants are encouraged to explore self-expression, relieve stress, and build meaningful connections within a supportive community. All materials are provided, making the experience accessible and impactful.

Sponsors play a vital role by helping to supply therapeutic art kits to each participant, transforming creativity into a powerful tool for emotional healing and personal growth. Hermien Hartman handles this project for YAMi and they get together once a week at the recovery centre.

Mpilo Enhle children’s project
Mpilo Enhle, which means ‘beautiful life’, operates from the premises of the Alliance Church of God, located in the heart of Extension 11, one of Barberton’s most vulnerable communities, where children face numerous social challenges. This is one of the projects managed by Khanye Mhakanya.

Since its inception, the program has registered over 1 400 children, providing them with essential support. Mitchell said that their community-centred approach offers a safe and nurturing environment where children come together through interactive activities and impactful conversations.

“Our events feature fun and interactive games, inspiring impact talks, and the provision of a free, nutritious meal for every child in attendance. The aim is to create a safe, supportive space that encourages connection, personal growth, and overall well-being.”

Key services include:
-Nutritious meal provision;
-Impact talks and life skills training;
-Distribution of food parcels to families in need;
-Physical and mental stimulation through games;
-Home visits with follow-up support (including school uniforms, clothing, and food parcels).

In a community affected by gangsterism, poverty, and crime, Mpilo Enhle, through the generous support of donors, serves as a safe and nurturing haven for vulnerable children.

Empowering families through small miracles
With minimum resources a major transformation can be sparked which is the main aim of the 5Plus2 project. This project includes a safe-house initiative that supports abused women and children, with current support including counselling and food relief. It also includes a family support program where monthly food parcels are handed out to vulnerable families for 6 months. These parcels are tailored to their specific needs.

For this project Mitchell said that sponsors may choose the number of families they want to support, directly helping households struggling with unemployment, hunger, and instability.

BCF Project, a weekly food relief hub
The Barberton Community Forum is a project run by Jenny Meerholz and her team of volunteers for many years. It now also falls under the YAMI umbrella. Every week, YAMI’s Food Hub serves hot, nutritious meals to approximately 100 vulnerable people, many of them elderly.

In a time of rising food costs and growing need, this project provides more than just meals. It delivers both sustenance and dignity to those who need it most. By helping to prevent hunger and malnutrition, it also fosters a deeper sense of community, care, and connection.

Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a real and lasting difference. YAMI invites individuals, businesses, and organizations to come together in support of a more dignified, empowered, and compassionate community where no one is left to go hungry.