Chairperson’s Message

The year 2024 had more headwinds than tailwinds, along with a very constrained donor landscape. Despite this, the REAP team proved its grit and commitment to our benefactors, rural youth from low income households. In the light of the changing landscape and our recent operating deficits, the REAP Board commissioned a major strategy review.

Key features of 2024:

A Strategy Review confirmed that REAP’s Catchment Area Youth Development Model remains relevant and contributes strongly to the achievement of the organisation’s mission – “To reduce rural poverty in South Africa by developing skilled, self-sustaining, ethically responsible youth”. A working group comprised of a cross section of REAP staff and Board members gave willingly of their time to sharpen the organisations focus and ensure REAP makes a difference in the lives of rural youth.
The Annual Financial Report delivered an unqualified audit in keeping with REAP’s track record. Notwithstanding this, a deficit of R648,482 was declared. The organisation’s financial sustainability remains a key focus area for the Board, though our reserves remain robust and investment performance in 2024 was strong.
We believe that diversity on the Board will ensure all stakeholder groups are represented and adds value to the strategic direction of REAP. We noted the resignation of Professor Pamela Dube due to work commitments. We thank Professor Dube for sharing her wisdom, insights and experience in the tertiary education sector. We are delighted that she will remain a friend of REAP in her important role as Vice Chancellor at Central University of Technology, a key institutional partner for REAP.
As part of ensuring good governance and policy relevance, the Child Safeguarding Policy was revised to include vulnerable adults.

Thanks to those Board members who gave so willingly of their time to re-confirm our Catchment Area Youth Development Model. In addition, REAP will continue to grow its efforts in the TVET sector.

The organisation has solid fundamentals and an outstanding leadership team. Our ongoing revision of REAP’s programmatic offerings has built a more resilient business and benefits all whom the organisation touches.

Professor Pamela Dube with REAP Director Russell Davies and Senior Student Development Advisor Xoliswa Phaku

An engraved thanks to our donors for enabling REAP’s best work and for your continued support.

Thank you to all for your contribution to REAP’s success story and its continued success.

I am honoured and humbled to lead REAP as Board Chair.

Celestine Bennett
Board Chair