Reforge Consulting has been named a finalist in the Best Social Enterprise category at the CSI Legacy Awards, a recognition of its impactful work in transforming early childhood development (ECD) in South Africa. By addressing systemic challenges and fostering innovative solutions, Reforge Consulting exemplifies how social enterprises can create lasting change in underserved communities.
The organisation bridges the gap between community-based social service providers, private sector donors, and non-profit organisations, ensuring that existing programmes can achieve meaningful outcomes. With over two decades of experience, Reforge Consulting has become a key player in advancing psycho-social care, literacy, safe early learning environments, and nutrition support for children living in poverty. Its work has directly impacted over 9,000 children through 42 projects since 2022, supported by R18 million in donor contributions.
Reforge Consulting’s mission is driven by the stark reality that two-thirds of South Africa’s seven million children under six lack access to early learning support. Without intervention, many children fail to meet critical developmental milestones, which has long-term implications for their ability to contribute meaningfully to a knowledge-driven economy. Recognising the urgency of the situation, Reforge focuses on mobilising resources and providing infrastructure support for community-based initiatives.
A standout feature of Reforge’s work is its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The organisation has spearheaded six eco-build projects using fire-resistant, natural building materials. Examples include classrooms constructed with strawbale insulation, pre-school facilities made from biomass recycled concrete, and offices built with lightweight polystyrene aggregate bricks. One notable project for which Reforge Consulting has raised international funding is the new GOAL50 ECD Centre in the Western Cape which is currently being built with recycled tyres, eco bricks and plastic bricks. These efforts demonstrate Reforge’s dedication to integrating circular economy principles into its projects, creating both functional and environmentally friendly solutions.
Collaboration is at the heart of Reforge Consulting’s success. By working with local networks that hold critical contextual knowledge, as well as private and government partners, the organisation amplifies its impact. Through these partnerships, Reforge addresses educational inequities while aligning its work with South Africa’s National Development Plan and broader global goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Being named a finalist in the Best Social Enterprise category is a testament to Reforge Consulting’s innovative approach and transformative outcomes. The organisation’s work not only improves early learning opportunities but also sets a benchmark for sustainable, community-driven social enterprise. With plans to expand its reach and impact, Reforge Consulting continues to redefine what it means to empower children and communities in South Africa.
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