Community

Wonderbag teams up with Foodbank to make a difference this Mandela Day

Published

11 years ago

19 July 2015

Durbanite

On 17 July 2015, in commemoration of Mandela Day taking place on the 18^th July, Wonderbag will be making a difference and giving back to those in need with the help of Foodbank. In a food packing initiative that was conceived by Foodbank, the Wonderbag Foundation has generously donated 670 Wonderbags to the cause and staff members from Wonderbag and the Wonderbag Foundation assisted with the packing of these hampers at Foodbank’s offices in Durban leading up to Mandela Day. The Foodbank food hampers are intended to find homes around Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban.

Amy Watkins from the Wonderbag Foundation is very excited about this initiative and has been working with Foodbank to coordinate the packing of these hampers. “At the Wonderbag Foundation we believe in individual philanthropy, meaning that we truly believe in the power of one person to make a difference. Mr Mandela highlighted that perfectly. But, we also believe that together we can achieve so much more. By participating in an event like this, we are providing practical assistance, whilst at the same time highlighting the great needs out there for those living on the lines of poverty. We are delighted to have been able to participate in such a meaningful opportunity like this with another reputable and socially responsible organisation like Foodbank who shares similar goals of healthy cooking and eating, and empowering those who need it most,” said Watkins.

Derek Govindasami, the Durban Branch Manager for Foodbank SA, is very happy with the feedback they have already received from the first beneficiaries of the Wonderbags. “A few of the organisations have already received their Wonderbags and we have received very good reports of how the recipients are saving on gas and firewood. Those who cook on open fires are happy because they now have to spend less time around an open flame inhaling smoke and everyone is grateful for the extra time that has been freed up now that they are cooking with the Wonderbag and they don’t have to fear burning their food,” said Govindasami.

Of course extending a helping hand to others is not a new concept to Wonderbag whose mantra is “Goodness in a bag”. This locally produced heat retention cooker has taken the world by storm and through their “Buy And Give” initiatives implemented locally and overseas, the Wonderbag Foundation has been able to donate thousands of Wonderbags to impoverished communities and women in need. With the enormous savings on time, money and energy resources that a Wonderbag provides – not to mention the significant health benefits too – there is no doubt that this single bag has and will continue to be the catalyst for change throughout the world.

For more information about the Wonderbag Foundation visit www.wonderbagfoundation.org or find out more about the Wonderbag on www.wonderbag.co.za.

Author: Durbanite

Related Topics:Buy and Give Derek Govindasami Foodbank SA Mandela Day Wonderbag Wonderbag Foundation

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Business

Award-Winning Tutoring and Extra Lessons with Qualified Teachers

Published

1 month ago

12 January 2026

mrjoelmagic

Quality Tutoring and Extra Lessons That Build Confidence and Results

Every child learns in their own way. Some enjoy the classroom setting, while others benefit from extra time and focused support to strengthen their understanding. Many families also choose extra lessons simply to give their children more confidence and a stronger foundation. That is where Kip McGrath Westville makes a difference. Recognised at the Best of Durban Awards, the centre is trusted across KZN for helping learners grow in both skill and self-belief.

Qualified Teachers, Local Understanding

One of the things that makes Kip McGrath Westville stand out is its team of qualified teachers from schools in and around the community. These are professionals who understand both the curriculum and the challenges learners face, and who bring classroom experience into a focused tutoring environment.

Sessions are available across a wide range of subjects, including English, Maths, Maths Literacy, Afrikaans, Science, Accounting, Physics, Study Skills and, School Readiness, supporting learners from Grade R through to Grade 12.

This variety means support is available for early foundational learning, exam preparation and everything in between.

Building Strong Foundations

The journey begins with a free, no-obligation assessment. This looks at a child’s current year and the two years prior. English is the language of instruction for most subjects, so having a solid grasp of it helps learners better understand everything from Maths problems to Science concepts.

By identifying areas that need strengthening, tutors can design a programme that gives each learner the support they need to feel more confident and prepared.

What to Expect from a Kip Session

Each learner follows a personalised programme that matches their needs and goals. Extra lessons are structured to be focused, engaging and supportive:

~ A session concentrating on one subject at a time.
~ A maximum of four students per session.
~ A combination of computer activities and written work to keep learning interesting.
~ Guidance from qualified teachers who provide encouragement and structure.
~ Clear goals that help learners see their progress and celebrate achievements.

More Than Just Better Marks

Kip McGrath is not only about improving results. It is about helping children feel more confident in their learning, giving them the tools to manage challenges and the reassurance that they can succeed. Parents often see a positive shift in how their children approach school, noticing greater independence and a more relaxed attitude to their studies.

Working Together with Families

The best results happen when families and tutors work together. At Kip McGrath:

~ Learners receive weekly homework to practise what they have studied.
~ Parents are kept up to date with regular feedback on progress.
~ Kip McGrath facilitates an open line of communication between its tutors, parents, the school, and the child’s teachers for full transparency on extra lessons.

This teamwork ensures that each learner feels encouraged and supported throughout their academic journey.

Lasting Results

The programmes at Kip McGrath are progressive and measurable. Children start at their level and build step by step toward their goals. With consistency and encouragement, learners gain confidence, improve their understanding, and feel more at ease with their schoolwork.

Why Families Choose Kip

With 50 years of international experience, and branches all over South Africa, and other areas of the world including the UK and Australia, Kip McGrath has supported generations of learners. Families choose Kip McGrath Westville for its caring approach and proven results. Recognition at the Best of Durban Awards is a reflection of the impact they continue to make in the community.

Book a Free Assessment

Whether your child could use some extra support or simply wants to strengthen their foundation, Kip McGrath Westville is here to help. Start with a free, no-obligation assessment and see the difference a little extra guidance & a few extra lessons can make.

At Kip McGrath, it is not just about lessons. It is about building confidence, supporting growth, and giving every child the chance to feel secure in their learning.

Contact Kip McGrath Today!

Call: 031 267 2734

Email: accounts@kipwestville.co.za

Web: www.kipmcgrath.co.za/westville

Instagram: @kipwestville

Facebook: @KipWestville

Author: mrjoelmagic

Business

Barkies: Homemade Pet Treats

Published

2 months ago

9 December 2025

Shelley

Freshness You Can Trust, Impact You Can See! 🐾
Looking for treats that are genuinely good for your furry (or hoofed!) family members?

Welcome to Barkies—where every treat is baked with love, fresh ingredients, and a commitment to animal welfare.

We believe in complete transparency. Our treats are always homemmade with fresh, natural ingredients, and we are proud to tell you exactly what goes into every single bite.

✨ Year-End Combo Special: Spoil Your Pup! ✨
To celebrate the year, we’re making it easy to spoil your dog with the best of Barkies:

Item Details
12 Pupcakes Choose your dog’s favourite flavour!
500g Fresh Dog Treats Choose your flavour!
Combo Price R220

This is the perfect package for holiday gatherings, puppy parties, or just showing extra love!

🌍 Treats with a Heart
We’re not just about delicious treats; we’re about giving back. Barkies donates 20% of every single sale to incredible animal charities right here in Durban. When you buy from us, you’re directly helping local animals in need.

🥕 Simple, Delicious & Safe
Our treats are simple but delicious and contain no nasty preservatives. Please store all Barkies products in the fridge or freezer to keep them fresh.

We make treats for dogs, cats, and horses!