Let’s Help Yamkela Get Back to School

If you know Yamkela Vayo, you already know what kind of person he is—generous, compassionate, full of light. He’s the kind of person who shows up for others. The kind of person who lifts people’s spirits just by being there. The kind of person who brings joy and warmth into every space he enters.

This year, Yamkela took a huge step toward building a future for himself by enrolling in a Creative Development program at Vega, a private college in Cape Town. It’s a path that’s opened doors—not just professionally, but personally—and one he’s embraced with determination and hope.

Thanks to a scholarship, his tuition is fully covered for the rest of the year. But as many of you know, living and studying far from home, without a consistent support system, brings its own set of challenges. While he’s deeply grateful for the encouragement and care he does receive, the reality is that he’s on his own in Cape Town when it comes to covering daily expenses—things like housing, groceries, transportation, and basic supplies.

Since the end of the semester, he’s been back in Joe Slovo Township, where continuing his education remotely simply isn’t an option. His classes are in-person, and without the ability to return to Cape Town, he’s completely cut off from participating in his studies. Each day away widens the gap—academically, emotionally, and financially—and puts everything he’s worked for at risk.

And that’s why we’re reaching out now. Because every day Yamkela isn’t in Cape Town is a day of school he’s missing—and a step further from the future he’s worked so hard to pursue.

This isn’t just about logistics—it’s about momentum, dignity, and possibility. Yamkela has navigated more than most, and yet he continues to lead with optimism, generosity, and care for those around him.

If you’ve ever been impacted by his spirit, his kindness, or his drive, now is the time to show up for him. Yamkela has poured so much of himself into uplifting others—always ready with a smile, a helping hand, or a word of encouragement. He’s the kind of person who makes people feel seen and supported, even when he’s navigating his own challenges quietly in the background. Now, as he faces a turning point, he shouldn’t have to face it alone.

With the support of his community—those who know and believe in him—we can help remove the barrier standing between him and the future he’s working so hard to build. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a direct and lasting impact: a place to stay, food on the table, a bus fare, a notebook—all the things that make showing up to class possible.

Let’s help him cross this bridge.

Let’s get him back to class.

Let’s keep his story moving forward.

Thank you for being part of it—and for helping make sure Yamkela’s journey doesn’t pause here, but continues with the strength, support, and community he’s given so freely to others.