Nicarela Charity: 
Creating Sustainable Change 

In South Africa, individuals with intellectual disabilities face significant barriers to employment and full societal participation. The Living Link, founded in 1999, is dedicated to empowering young adults aged 18 to 35 with intellectual disabilities, equipping them with the skills and opportunities to live independently and achieve professional success.

Through comprehensive programs, The Living Link goes beyond basic education to teach essential life skills such as communication, time management, and financial literacy. These skills are vital in preparing students for the workplace and helping them thrive in society. Over the years, The Living Link has successfully supported over 1,000 students, providing them with life skills and work readiness training to overcome the challenges they face.

7.5% of the population in SA lives with a disability, 99% of people with disabilities are excluded from the workforce due to societal stigma, limited access to education, and inadequate public services. The Living Link works to overcome these barriers through its Adult Integration & Work Readiness Programme, which provides practical training in resume writing, job search strategies, interview techniques, and workplace etiquette. By focusing on each student’s strengths and aligning them with suitable job opportunities, The Living Link helps young adults with intellectual disabilities build the skills needed to succeed in mainstream employment and achieve greater independence.

However, the impact of these programs extends far beyond securing jobs. They also empower students to live independently, participate fully in their communities, and enjoy a sense of dignity and self-worth. Many students come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, making their journey even more challenging, but with the support of The Living Link, they gain the skills and confidence needed to thrive.

Many students face financial barriers that prevent them from accessing life-changing training at The Living Link. Nicarela Charity steps in to provide funding for a one-year program, which includes both classroom learning and real-world job sampling. By supporting these students, Nicarela helps break down exclusion, offering them the opportunity to enter the workforce, become self-sufficient, and contribute to society—an essential need in South Africa’s high-unemployment environment. At Nicarela, we believe everyone deserves to live with dignity and contribute to their community, and we are proud to help young adults with intellectual disabilities achieve fulfilling, independent lives.

Bethany House

A Lifeline for Vulnerable Children

Since 1998, The Bethany House Trust has been a vital support system for vulnerable children in the West Rand region, providing shelter, healthcare, and education to over 144,000 beneficiaries each year.

At the heart of Bethany House’s work are the Child and Youth Care Workers (CYCWs)—dedicated caregivers who offer far more than basic necessities. These compassionate professionals provide emotional support, guidance, and nurturing, stepping in as temporary parents for children who have been abandoned, orphaned, or are in need of protection. Their role is crucial to the children's well-being and future, offering them a sense of stability and hope in times of crisis.

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However, recent legislative changes now require CYCWs to meet new qualification standards within a tight timeframe, posing a significant challenge to the Trust. This regulatory shift threatens to displace over half of the Trust's 22 CYCWs, many of whom have decades of invaluable hands-on experience. If not addressed, these changes could jeopardize the livelihoods of these workers and the care provided to the children, with the risk of losing a substantial portion of the team by September 2024.

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In response to this urgent situation, Nicarela Charity has stepped in to fund the upskilling and education of 13 CYCWs, ensuring they remain registered and can continue their life-changing work. Enrolled in Level 4 or 5 courses through Abraham Kriel and TJ Social Work Services, these workers are completing a one-year program that combines virtual and in-person modules.

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This initiative reflects Nicarela Charity’s broader mission of breaking cycles of poverty and creating lasting social impact. By investing in the professional development of these dedicated women, Nicarela is not only securing their futures but also uplifting their families and communities. All 13 of the CYCWs receiving support are local to the region, meaning the benefits of this program will extend throughout the community, fostering both social and economic growth.

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Guild Cottage