In line with permaculture principles, every element of the project serves more than one function. Wherever possible we use our work to train members of the community in useful skills.

The crèche is used as a training centre for pre-school teachers; aspiring gardeners learn from working in our food gardens; the youth centre benefits from visiting volunteers who teach English, drama, crafts and other useful skills; the community centre kitchen will be under the supervision of an internationally qualified Chef who will train kitchen staff, waiters and other hospitality industry professionals.

One of our directors, Dizu Plaatjies is South Africa’s foremost traditional musician. He is also a senior lecturer at the University of Cape Town’s College of Music. He runs regular workshops on music, dance, instrument making and performance.

Our groups have performed at many functions including the opening ceremony of an international sports event; the switching on of the traditional Christmas tree lights by the mayor of Cape Town and various festivals around Cape Town. For aspiring young professional musicians this is a wonderful opportunity to learn from the best.

Unemployed women are taught various handcraft skills such as beading, sewing & weaving so that they can make items for sale in the small shop (soon to be established).

Skilled volunteers sharing their knowledge and expertise are one of our best resources. Literacy, numeracy, performance arts, business skills, IT training and the tourism industry are a few of the areas where volunteers are helping the Indlovu project and the community of Monwabisi Park.