- Badisa marked its 21st anniversary with a vibrant AGM celebration at the Dutch Reformed Church in Stellenberg.
- The event featured a special song debut by singer Jak de Priester.
- The Annual Report was released, highlighting over 21 key milestones.
Badisa marked its 21st birthday with a cheerful, singing celebration during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Dutch Reformed Church in Stellenberg on Wednesday 4 September.
At the event, renowned Afrikaans singer and writer Jak de Priester debuted a song written exclusively for Badisa and its travelling rainbow-coloured mascot Kuumba, signifying the beginning of the next 21 years with renewed anticipation and excitement.
Kuumba is a character dreamed up from on top of a rainbow, looking over South Africa’s playful youth, having his dream realised to descend to earth, bringing joy to Badisa’s little beneficiaries.
This milestone was commemorated with the release of Badisa’s Annual Report, which reflected on 21 key milestones, each representing a significant achievement in the organisation’s history.
As these milestones were explored by Badisa CEO Basie van Wyk, guests learned that some of these programmes date back to over 100 years still having a meaningful impact to date.
Van Wyk further reflected on the organisation’s journey by saying: “Turning 21 gave us the opportunity to look back on significant milestones throughout the years, and our 2023-’24 Annual Report portrays many stories of hope and what we’ve been able to achieve. It also outlines the changing circumstances our organisation had to overcome over the years.”
Support
Dwindling support from government and various other factors affecting not only Badisa, but the non-profit sector as a whole, necessitated strategic adjustments for the organisation to stay true to its vision of being a neighbour to everyone in need.
“During the past year, we focused – from a strategic perspective – specifically on relationship building, sustainability, and reconsidering our organisational structure,” added Van Wyk.
During the 2023-’24 financial period alone, Badisa extended its services to just under a million vulnerable children, families, disabled and elderly individuals, and those struggling with substance abuse.
This immense effort was supported by 789 governing board members, 9 265 staff members, and a vast network of 1 656 dedicated volunteers.
Rev. Charl van Rensburg, Chairman of Badisa, emphasises the organisation’s unique approach to its 21st anniversary: “Badisa doesn’t aspire to be 21 years old and independent; instead, she wishes to be 21 years old and dependent on God, who provides hope.”
As Badisa looks to the future, the organisation’s leadership is confident that with steadfast faith and continued support from donors, volunteers and the community, Badisa will remain a beacon of hope for years to come.
- Read the full annual report here.
