• VW Community Trust started in 1989 to support communities in and around Kariega
• Over R570-million has been invested by the Trust in CSI projects to date

KARIEGA – For 35 years, the Volkswagen Community Trust has been at the heart of change in the lives of thousands of individuals. What began in 1989 as a humble effort to support communities around Kariega has grown into a beacon of hope for many in need. For Volkswagen Group Africa, this has always been more than just a corporate responsibility; it’s about people, and about the belief that a future filled with opportunity and promise is within reach.

The impact of the Trust and its range of initiatives has been significant to say the least. Since 1994, the Trust has invested over R570 million in CSI projects. Of this amount, 84% has been allocated to initiatives that focus on education, youth development, and community wellbeing. This dedication of upliftment is clearly demonstrated through projects such as the Ikhwezi Lomso Early Childhood Development Centre, which opened in 2011 in Kariega and has benefited 1 202 children to date.

One of the most impactful projects under the Community Trust’s umbrella is the loveLife Y-Centre in Kariega, which was built in 2012 with an initial investment of R20 million. Since then, the centre has touched the lives of 350 000 young people through its various programmes and offerings.

Volkswagen Group Africa employees have been pivotal in contributing to these efforts. A total of 2 186 employees make a voluntary financial contribution to CSI projects every month, with their donations helping to sustain and expand critical initiatives. With 38 Show of Hands employee events since 2011, our employees have rolled up their sleeves to personally invest in the wellbeing of our communities.

One of the most impactful programmes launched is the Legacy Literacy programme, started in 2015, which has already helped 6 854 children. The programme aims to eradicate illiteracy among learners under the age of 10 years, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed academically and in life.

In addition to supporting education and youth development, the Community Trust has also partnered with NGOs to extend its reach. Since 1994, an estimated R70-million has been invested in support of external NGO partners.

“As we look back on 35 years of the Volkswagen Community Trust, we aren’t just celebrating the projects we’ve accomplished or the funds we’ve invested,” said Nonkqubela Maliza, VWGA Corporate and Government Affairs Director. “The true cause for celebration is the lives we have touched, the people we have empowered and the voices we have amplified. When we started the Trust, we built it on the belief that we had both the power and the responsibility to have a lasting legacy in our communities, and with this belief we will continue our efforts for years to come.”