Ubuntu Circle of Life
Hope and Empowerment in Malibu Village
Casidra recently celebrated the successful completion of the Ubuntu Circle of Courage Project—a transformative initiative founded by Jantjie Booysen and rooted in the heart of Malibu Village, Blue Downs. This milestone not only marks the fulfilment of a powerful vision but also showcases the profound impact that community-focused development can achieve.
As a former property developer, Jantjie Booysen understood that real transformation begins with empowerment—providing people with the skills, tools, and opportunities to create lasting change. Inspired by this belief, he established a community garden that has since blossomed into a vibrant hub of learning, healing, and growth.
Thanks to funding from the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (WCDoA), Casidra implemented a comprehensive agricultural support package that included:
- Secure perimeter fencing
- A fully functional wellpoint for water access
- A smart shed and greenhouse infrastructure
- Two water tanks, in-field irrigation, gardening tools, protective clothing, and production inputs
This infrastructure has laid the groundwork for sustainability, productivity, and community cohesion.
“Gardening is therapy,” Booysen says. “It’s a way to bring people together and create something positive.”
The Ubuntu project has also forged meaningful connections with local institutions, most notably Malibu High School. Students have received hands-on training and actively contribute to the upkeep of the garden, making it not only a source of food but also a space of learning and pride.
Booysen also expressed heartfelt gratitude to CITRA, which granted the initiative a five-year lease—a crucial step that ensured the project’s continuity and stability.
He acknowledged the unwavering support and expertise of key individuals, including Ryan Maneveld, Jehiel Miller, and Steven Starila, whose contributions have been instrumental in turning vision into reality.
In his message to Casidra and the WCDoA, Booysen made a passionate appeal to continue supporting grassroots initiatives like Ubuntu:
“I can truly see the profound impact the WCDoA is making through their programmes—driving real change and alleviating poverty in meaningful ways.”
As the Ubuntu Circle of Courage enters its next phase, Booysen’s unwavering commitment to community upliftment will continue to inspire. His work serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when development is rooted in passion, purpose, and a shared belief in a better tomorrow.
