Nwala Foundation Programmes
Storytelling, Mentorship, and Literacy Innovation
We address South Africa’s literacy challenges through innovative, inclusive, and community-driven solutions. Whether through rural reading programmes, national competitions, or writer development initiatives, our goal remains the same: to elevate literacy and unlock potential through storytelling.
Our Key Programmes Include:
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Discover A Story
Discover A Story is Nwala Foundation's flagship early childhood literacy programme, using theatre, storytelling, puppetry, music and interactive reading experiences to help young children develop a lifelong love of books and reading.
Key Features:
- Immersive theatre, puppet shows and storytelling experiences
- Interactive read-aloud sessions and literacy activities for ECD and Foundation Phase learners
- Book donations and literacy resources for schools, libraries and communities
National Literary Games
The National Literary Games is a dynamic, competitive literacy event that turns reading and writing into an exciting team sport. Schools across South Africa participate in spelling bees, reading comprehension races, and writing challenges—making literacy fun and accessible.
Key Features:
- National and provincial competitions
- Youth engagement through gamified learning
- Celebration of academic excellence in underserved communities
Limpopo Book Fair
The Limpopo Book Fair is a flagship annual event that brings together writers, publishers, educators, and readers to celebrate literature in all its forms. With panel discussions, book launches, live storytelling, and school engagements, it's a festival for anyone passionate about African storytelling.
Event Highlights:
- Author panels and workshops
- School visits and community outreach
- Marketplace for African literature and publishing
Other Projects
These literacy programmes & projects make an effort to reach children in underserved villages where books are scarce. Through theatrical storytelling sessions, book donations, and mobile libraries, we create joyful encounters with books in indigenous languages and relatable contexts.
Integrated with:
In Women’s Words (IWW) Incubator Program – Our writer training pipeline that develops storytellers equipped to serve rural literacy initiatives.
Lazy Park
Lazy Park is Nwala Foundation's educational children's media programme, using puppetry, storytelling and engaging characters to promote literacy, imagination and a love of reading among young learners through entertaining, curriculum-inspired content.
Key Features:
- Original puppet characters that make reading fun and memorable
- Educational stories promoting literacy, creativity and South African culture
- Multi-platform children’s content for schools, families and communities
Adopt A Library Programme
We match veteran writers and retired literature professionals with aspiring writers in local libraries. These mentorships cultivate the next generation of literary voices and strengthen literary support systems at a grassroots level.
Programme Benefits:
- Mentorship for young writers
- Purpose-driven community involvement for seasoned writers
- Programming support for libraries
- Greater community engagement in literary culture
Literary Seminars & Workshops
Learning Through Literature
Our workshops and seminars target readers and writers of all skill levels. From beginner writing classes to advanced literary theory discussions, these sessions support continuous learning and growth.
News & Updates
Stay Informed on Our Literacy Movement
Be the first to know about upcoming events, new programmes, community achievements, and collaborative opportunities.
Recent Programme Highlights
- Expansion of the National Literary Games to new provinces
- Planning for Limpopo Book Fair 2026
- Writer success stories from the IWW Incubator
- Strategic partnerships for community literacy
Recent Programme Highlights
- National Literary Games registration dates
- Writer training sessions and workshops
- Community storytelling activations
Success Stories
We regularly feature the individuals and communities transformed by our work—writers getting published, children discovering books for the first time, and libraries thriving with renewed activity.
Media Coverage
Our impact has been featured in national and community media, spotlighting our leadership team, programme milestones, and the inspiring voices behind our stories.
Find the Programme That Speaks to You
From rural storytelling to national literacy games, there’s a space for you to learn, lead, or support. Explore how you can take part in our mission to transform communities through literacy and the arts.