Dlala Nje

Dlala Nje was founded in October 2012 and is an organisation that aims to to challenge perceptions and to create opportunities. We do this through running inner-city immersions and experiences in some of our city’s most misunderstood areas; Hillbrow, Berea and Yeoville. These immersions and walks fund the running of a community centre aimed at providing a safe learning environment for children from the community. Our inner-city adventures and immersive experiences provide a platform for challenging the preconceived ideas that most people have of the areas in which work. The history of Hillbrow is infamous and there are many social issues that have historically plagued this community. However, as one of the first landing spots for foreign Africans who are hoping to better their lives in the City of Gold, it is a melting pot of culture. Dlala Nje aims to show people the truth about these notorious suburbs; through an unforgettable adventure where thinking is challenged and comfort zones are stepped out of. We offer walks through Hillbrow, Berea and Yeoville that run weekly and our key markets here are tourists and adventurous individuals. We also run Corporate Culture and Market Insight immersions that are targeted at organisations. Despite our optimism, we also realise that these communities are not really places where kids can be kids. At our Dlala Nje Community Centre we offer a safe, diverse and engaging environment. We want to provide a place where kids can experience new things and awaken their passions. A place where talent is nurtured and confidence is built. Our current activities include ballet, arts & crafts, drama, dancing, music and yoga. We place a huge emphasis on education and provide free computers, Internet access, daily homework facilitation, a library and an environment for kids to reach their potential. We do this with our staff, who are all from the communities in which we work, and with support from dynamic partners and volunteers.