The Barefoot Facilitator set up the Nyuki fund to bring our concepts and theories on community development, local economies, digital skills and entrepreneurship to life. Driven by our commitment to creating dignified, meaningful work opportunities for all, we collaborated closely with residents of a nearby informal settlement. This effort gave rise to the Transforming Slovo Initiative.

Our goal was to involve community members in identifying their own pririties and leveraging our networks in service to their vision. Communal spaces and facilities have been enhanced. A container has been transformed into a digital skills hub, powered by solar panels. Trees have been planted , and artiifical turf laid, a jungle gym installed to create a vibrant community area, Slovo Space. Alongside these physical upgrades, we established mentorship programs and collaborated with local stakeholders and community activists to bring these spaces to life, fostering growth and opportunity for all involved.

Our first initiative was a park cleanup, creating opportunities for two Slovo Park residents from the nearby informal settlement to earn a stipend while helping keep the space welcoming and clean. Rehana observed, “It’s pointless to always complain without acting.” Once neglected, the park now receives daily care, funded by The Barefoot Facilitator, with recent repairs bringing dignity back to a space frequented by the community. Rehana reflected, “It’s wonderful to start the day early, listening to birds, breathing fresh air, and seeing people jogging, exercising, and simply enjoying the space.”

In the afternoons, young soccer enthusiasts from Slovo Park often gather to show off their skills. “A new soccer ball might seem small, but I hope it kicks off a larger game – one that fosters care for people, place, and planet,” said Rehana.

With Crosby – I Care, we aim to continue supporting initiatives that encourage residents to take ownership of our shared spaces, cultivating pride in our neighborhood. Instead of constantly moving in search of better places, we can create those spaces right where we are.

In keeping with this spirit, the initiative has grown. Beyond cleanups, we’ve organized street parties and lively rugby watch parties in the park, especially during the World Cup, to foster a strong community connection and celebrate togetherness. Seeing the joy in the eyes of young players and community members reminds us of our mission, motivating us to find even more ways to support local development.

The Play in the Park initiative takes place every second Saturday of the month, transforming the park into a vibrant community hub. Each gathering is unique, featuring guest appearances from local groups like the Brixton Choir, Play Africa, and various authors. With activities that range from art projects to literacy-focused events, each month brings a new theme and fresh energy.

Volunteers play a key role in bringing the day to life, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where children from the surrounding community—and their parents—can come together to play, learn, and connect. This initiative not only fosters creativity and learning but also builds a strong sense of community among families, all while celebrating the joy of shared spaces and communal play.

An offer of space to a collective of wellness micro entrepreneurs to showcase their products innovation and commitment to alternative economic models.