About Us
Rooted in community. Growing opportunity. Changing futures.
The Seed Fund is a community-based non-profit organisation working alongside children and families in the Malacca Road informal settlement in Durban, South Africa.
Our story began in 2009 — not with a programme or a project, but with relationships. As we listened, learned and came to understand the challenges facing children in the community, one thing became clear: education could open the door to a different future.
In 2017, The Seed Fund was formally established and our first Homework Centre opened. Since then, our work has grown into a holistic network of education, care and support that accompanies children from their earliest years through their school journey.
But at the heart of everything we do are relationships. We know the children and families we serve, understand the barriers they face and walk alongside them for the long term.
We believe every child has potential. Poverty may shape the circumstances into which a child is born, but it should never define their identity or determine their future.
We don’t simply provide services to a community; we invest in relationships that empower people to build a different future.
OUR MISSION
To empower children through education, dignity and opportunity, walking alongside them from their earliest years through their school journey and helping them build a brighter future.
OUR VALUES
Relationships: We believe lasting change begins with relationships. We listen, build trust and walk alongside the children, families and community we serve.
Dignity: Every person deserves to be seen, valued and treated with respect, regardless of their circumstances.
Integrity: We are accountable for what has been entrusted to us and committed to transparency, responsible stewardship and doing what is right.
Partnership: We believe change happens together. We work with our community, families, staff, volunteers, donors and partners — not simply for them.
Hope: We believe in possibility. We encourage children and families to dream beyond their circumstances and believe in a different future.
Our work is grounded in a Christian ethos of love, compassion and service, recognising the inherent dignity and worth of every person.
Meet our Team
Behind every Seed Fund programme is a team of passionate people who believe deeply in the potential of the children and community we serve. Many of our team members come from the community itself, bringing local knowledge, trusted relationships and a deep understanding of the families we walk alongside. Together, we are teachers, carers, mentors, cooks, coordinators and leaders — each playing a part in creating opportunities for children to learn, grow and thrive.
We are more than a team. We are people united by a shared belief that every child deserves the opportunity to build a brighter future.
Charlene Steyler
ECD Principal
Sinazo Mbunjana
ECD Supervisor
Sthembile Buthelezi
ECD Teacher
Nosipho Khulu
ECD Teacher
Ndimakazi Mbidi
ECD Teachers' Assistant
Noxolo Mkulekwa
Daycare Carer
Nontobeko Sikhakhane
Daycare Carer
Thabisile Mhlongo
Daycare Relief
Financial Information
Please consider supporting our education, nutrition, and empowerment programs. We gratefully receive any contributions, whether they be once-off or recurring.
BANKING DETAILS
Account Name: The Seed Fund
Bank: Standard Bank
Account Number: 051398907
We are a registered non-profit and public benefit organisation.
NPO No: 194-878 | PBO No: 930061077 | Section 18A Approved
Tax certificates are available on request.