the CLEFT.

When I want to be funny, (like now), I usually start a semantics fight. What is a brand? But since I'm trying to be grown-up (chuckles) let's go with what I chose, they're brand enough.

There is something god-like about kids, I guess they're the allegory of gods, there is a healing about their auras, a touch of green in a grey world. That green rubs off on you, I guess that's the real reason I love the Cleft so much.

the CLEFT. Unlike most organisations that start with making money in mind only to revert to "social responsibilities" later, the Cleft's is centered on social responsibility and service. They work with other NGOs, cooperates, and communities to foster change, especially for the lives of young people.

They work with schools and facilitate leadership development programs, inculcating ethos of responsibility and hard work. The focus is on assertiveness, coaching, cultivating skills such as time management, personal development and leadership principles. I especially love their pragmatic, playful approach to teaching which includes sports, camps, challenges that encourage teamwork, it creates rich memories attached to valuable lessons. I even have my own fond memories alright. I think I have a post or a couple about that lifetime experience somewhere on this here blog. The lessons are playful, interactive and so much fun, being a life-coach was and is one of "the" most fulfilling initiatives I have ever engaged in. They serve not only to teach but as an unwinding platform for the children. They allow students to experience and develop trust, communication, conflict resolution and problem-solving skills among others in one of the most conducive manners possible.

In an evolving society where the dynamics of parent-child relationships aren't as they were, they play a fundamental role in aiding young people navigate a critical phase in their lives. They bridge the gap (the CLEFT). Pragmatic issues such as reproductive health in the face of HIV and Aids, living with HIV and AIDS, bereavement and peer pressure are tackled in comfortable nurturing environments that allow for maximum participation and growth. This is significantly important especially in low-income communities where the children are more vulnerable and prone to abuse. Some of the children live in child-headed homes and need guidance and a hand to hold. the CLEFT bridges the gap. In partnership with more organisations they promote sustainable livelihood projects and also work with children living and working on the streets.

The privilege to teach comes with an innate blessing. In teaching, you are taught. Every camping trip, each activity, every conversation with different children, leaves you rejuvenated, more aware and empathetic. It's not work if you love it right.

I have worked with the Cleft and I look forward to more work with them. Their initiatives and platform have the power to put a smile on a child's face, create a possibility to make a difference in that child's life, and that for me, makes them the brand. Being able to shape in one way or another the next generation is an honour, especially if made as much fun as they make it, why not, count me in.