Projects
Through benefit-sharing agreements, the Andries Steenkamp Trust implements community-based projects that favour education and skills development.
Back to School Programme
Implemented by the South African San Council
In January 2023, the South African San Council launched the "Back to School Programme," supporting students from marginalized San communities by providing essential resources. Students at !Xunkhwesa Combined School and Rietfontein High School received back-to-school packs, including backpacks stocked with stationery to help them start the year prepared. Female students also received sanitary products, ensuring their well-being and school attendance. Due to the program's success, it was extended in 2024 to reach even more students, benefiting JJ Adams Combined School in the Kalahari, Carnavon High School, and !Xunkhwesa Combined School in Platfontein. This expansion reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting education and addressing the unique needs of San youth across the region.
SAN language development project
Implemented by the South African Academic Initiative of South Africa (SAISA)
At the 2023 Kalahari Desert Festival, the first edition of Bessie Gaan Fees Toe, a children's coloring book, was launched. This book is translated into three San languages: !Xun, Khwedam, and /Nuu. During the launch, Claudia Snyman held a storytelling session, teaching the children key words and phrases in the N/uu language.
At the 2024 Kalahari Desert Festival, the sequel, Bessie en die Talentkompetisie, was introduced. In collaboration with Dr. Katrina Esau, actress Jolene Martin brought the story to life, captivating the young audience.