My son, Mustafah Darries, was fortunate to be awarded a SAILI student scholarship for high school in 2009, covering his fees, uniform, text books and stationery. Imagine the relief we felt knowing that our son would be receiving a good education, which we ordinarily would not be able to afford.

I cannot begin to express my gratitude for the many opportunities afforded him.

Not only was he supported financially, but he also received practical assistance in how to approach his academics as well as moral support to develop into a well-rounded, responsible individual.

As a family, we have experienced various challenges during our association with SAILI. To be able to sleep at night without worrying about whether we would be able to keep our son in the school of our choice was a great relief.

The SAILI staff was always ready to lend an ear when we felt overwhelmed with the normal challenges of adolescence. They ensured that Mustafah’s needs were being addressed and met wherever possible. SAILI willingly arranging extra tuition when needed at no cost to us. They arranged valuable outings, assisting the learners with resources to further education.

Mustafah was exposed to so many opportunities that he would have never even dreamed about without SAILI. I hope that he will be a worthy ambassador for SAILI in the future and carry the name proudly wherever he goes.

I want to thank SAILI and everyone associated with the organisation from the bottom of my heart. May your light continue to shine in the darkest corners of the communities who need it most. To Sam and Kath, I say ‘BIG UP’, and to the staff who have gone, viz Liz and Garreth, may they be making waves wherever they are.

From an eternally grateful parent,
Shariefa Darries