Qhubeka is a Nguni word that means “to progress,” or “to move forward.” The Qhubeka Charity, moves people and communities forward with the simple act of assembling and distributing bicycles. In the face of extreme and persistent poverty, bicycles have the potential to change the lives of the most vulnerable communities in South Africa by helping people get where they need to go.

In South Africa, millions of scholars walk long distances to and from school every day along dusty roads, burdened by the weight of their books. For some, the daily journey on foot takes hours. This test of endurance consumes time, drains energy, and ultimately affects academic performance, leading to high levels of fatigue and alarming dropout rates from Grade 1 through Matric.

By partnering with Qhubeka Charity, The Star Foundation is changing this reality for 50 scholars in the Grade 9 class at Sefutswelo High School in Uitkyk, Northwest. Through a donation of R425,000, each scholar will receive a brand-new bicycle this February, along with spare parts for maintenance and a range of cycling accessories.

Because cycling is 3.5 times faster than walking, The Star Foundation’s bicycle donation will transform the daily commute to school for these learners. The new bicycles will not only reduce travel time and enable on-time arrival at school but will also ensure that scholars have more energy to focus on their studies, leading to better academic performance and greater participation in school activities.

Before receiving their bicycles, all 50 scholars will undergo a comprehensive training program conducted by Qhubeka Charity, through which they will learn how to ride their bicycles, use the accessories and spare parts to maintain them, and to follow the rules of the road. Following this training, each learner will take ownership of their new bicycle in a special distribution ceremony which is set to take place in February 2025.

Qhubeka Charity’s innovative “learn-to-earn” programme is designed to ensure that every bicycle distributed is not just donated as a gift, but as a reward for pledges made and fulfilled by each recipient. In exchange for their bicycles, each learner will sign a contract with commitments to enhance their school attendance and academic performance and to be accountable for the bicycle’s care and maintenance.

The journey doesn’t stop there. Beyond the classroom, Qhubeka Charity goes the extra mile by uplifting the whole community. Each bicycle is assembled locally in a dedicated facility, creating employment opportunities for people in the area where it operates. Additionally, Qhubeka trains local bicycle mechanics, equipping them with bicycle repair and basic business management skills. These mechanics will visit the school regularly to ensure the bicycles remain in use and are kept in peak condition.

As the 2025 school year begins, The Star Foundation is delighted to be empowering the Grade 9 class at Sefutswelo High School, as well as offering valuable skills development and employment opportunities to the local community of Uitkyk. We are excited to see how each bicycle will have its proud new owner pedaling towards a brighter future.