LIV
LIV LUKHANYISO BRINGS LIGHT AND HOPE TO MAKHANDA / GRAHAMSTOWN BY SERVING THE VULNERABLE CHILDREN IN OUR COMMUNITY
BRINGING LIGHT TO THE COMMUNITY
Like our name suggests, “Lukhanyiso,” meaning “light” in isiXhosa – we are here to be a beacon of light and hope to the lives of those in need in Makhanda/Grahamstown. It all started in 2011, when LIV Founder, Tich Smith’s inspiring presentation of the LIV vision ignited a fire within Lara Kruiskamp’s heart. Determined to make a difference in her hometown, she brought the vision to Makhanda/Grahamstown, and since then, our team has been working diligently to turn this dream into reality, raising funds, spreading awareness, and building a strong foundation for LIV Lukhanyiso.
We have actively collaborated with local children’s homes and supported vulnerable children in the Makhanda/Grahamstown community since 2016. Together, we are creating a brighter future for all.
As we eagerly anticipate breaking ground on our own land, we can’t help but feel the excitement building. This moment symbolises the beginning of a new chapter in our journey, where we will be able to expand our reach and impact even more lives.
“You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world.”  Matthew 5:14 (The Message)
GIVING HOPE TO OUR COMMUNITY
At LIV Lukhanyiso, we believe in the power of grassroots action and the strength of community. We are working hand in hand with existing non-profit organizations (NPOs) and other local organizations to give life to our community. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.Â
Here are some of the ways in which we are bringing hope to our community:
Working with existing homes
Sewing Project
Creating Awareness
Building Preparations
WORKING WITH EXISTING CHILDREN’S HOMES IN OUR COMMUNITY
While we are getting ready to build our own village, we have formed strong partnerships with existing children’s homes in our community, working hand in hand to support them in caring for vulnerable children.
One of our main focuses is connecting these children’s homes with generous donors who are passionate about making a difference. With their support, we can ensure that the children have access to the essentials they need to thrive, including food, clothing, bedding and educational support.Â
We also provide educational materials and resources. Additionally, we extend support and mentorship to both the children and their dedicated caregivers. By nurturing them at every stage of their lives, we aim to empower them and set them up for a brighter future.
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UPLIFTING WOMEN THROUGH OUR SEWING PROJECT
In 2018, we initiated a sewing project to empower women in our community and restore their sense of self-worth. Through this project, we create handmade products that serve a dual purpose. Not only do they provide employment opportunities for these incredible ladies, but they also contribute to their personal growth through skills training and entrepreneurship.
By participating in our sewing project, these women gain valuable skills. We believe in equipping them with the tools they need to succeed and become self-sufficient.
In addition this initiative plays a vital role in ensuring the sustainability of LIV Lukhanyiso and directly support our ongoing efforts to bring hope and transformation to our community.
CREATING AWARENESS OF OUR VISION
We use every opportunity to spread the dream and vision of LIV Lukhanyiso far and wide. We are passionate about sharing our story, engaging with the community, and inspiring others to join us in making this dream a reality.
You’ll often find us at markets, functions or actively reaching out to businesses and churches. We love connecting with people face-to-face, building relationships, answerings questions, and creating awareness of the LIV Lukhanyiso vision which will create change on a large scale.
We believe that by partnering with like-minded organisations and faith communities, we can make our dream a reality.
PREPARING FOR THE BUILD OF OUR FIRST HOME
Since 2020, we have dedicated a significant part of our efforts to securing Land Use Rights and preparing the land for the construction of LIV Lukhanyiso. Our mission is to provide the best possible care for the children who will one day call our village home, and it all starts with ensuring that the land we build on offers a safe and nurturing environment.
To make this vision a reality, we work with a team of dedicated professionals. Town planners, architects, engineers, and environmentalists have all come together to ensure that every aspect of our project is meticulously planned and executed. Their expertise and commitment are invaluable as we navigate the process of preparing the land for development.
OUR JOURNEY SO FAR
This is a timeline of our journey so far and what we are currently working on in order to make our dream a reality:
2011
The vision is sparked
Lara met LIV Village founder, Tich Smith, at a Watoto Choir evening in Ballito, and his presentation of the vision for LIV South Africa ignited a similar passion in Lara’s heart.
2013
12 months, 7 continents, 7 marathons
Lara packed up her successful corporate career to pursue a God-given dream to run a marathon on every continent in the world in one year to raise funds to buy land and build a LIV Village in her hometown of Grahamstown/Makhanda.
2014
The dream becomes reality
33 hectares of land were donated to LIV Lukhanyiso by local Grahamstown business, Makana Brick.
2016
Making it official
Registration as an entity and appointment of Board of Directors.
It’s also the year we launched our community projects in the community of Grahamstown.
Land subdivision & rezoning process underway
We received approval to subdivide our land
into land parcels. Town planners managed
the subdivision and rezoning process and
worked closely with a team of experienced
professionals.
Architectural Drawings
We have been working closely with the architect in preparation of Phase 1 of the village. Phase 1 entails the building of the first 8 homes, a perimeter fence and gates, limited landscaping, and some civil works including but not limited to access roads and water works.
2023/2024
Land Use Rights Process Underway
Our detailed land reports have now been completed, and the application for Environmental Authorization has been submitted.The environmental assessment process is designed to understand the potential environmental impacts of the LIV Lukhanyiso village and to inform environmental decision-making prior to development.
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