Restoring Dignity: How Merchiston School Helped Rebuild Homes in Langa Township

In August, Merchiston School embarked on an inspiring long-haul tour to South Africa, an experience that went far beyond sports. While the trip included competitive matches and cultural exchanges, it was a visit to Langa Township in Cape Town that became the heart of their journey – a moment of profound impact and global responsibility.

The Visit That Sparked Action

Langa, one of Cape Town’s oldest townships, is home to a vibrant and resilient community. However, it also faces significant challenges, including the devastating impact of fires that have left many families homeless. During their visit, the students and staff of Merchiston School were introduced to the reality of life in Langa – its hardships, its triumphs, and its enduring spirit.

Guided by MC, the CEO of ProteamSA and a passionate advocate for his community, the group learned about the realities faced by families who had lost their homes. ProteamSA, in partnership with the non-profit organization Isidima, works tirelessly to restore dignity by rebuilding homes for those affected. Through tourism, these organisations raise funds to deliver on their mission.

MC’s leadership and dedication ensured the transparency of the donations, demonstrating how every contribution directly helped rebuild homes. The concept of Isidima – meaning restoring dignity back to the people – became the cornerstone of this partnership, inspiring the Merchiston team to act.

One family’s story in particular stood out to Merchiston. They had lost their home to a fire and had been living in cramped conditions in a temporary shack ever since. Hearing their struggles moved the Merchiston group to do something meaningful.

Fundraising for Change

Before traveling to South Africa, Merchiston had already raised an impressive £20,000 through school and community initiatives such as quiz nights, raffles, and auctions. These events brought together students, parents, and staff, united by a shared mission to make a difference. Students played a key role, actively designing and leading efforts to encourage contributions.

Once in Langa, these funds were put to immediate use. Partnering with MC’s team, the Merchiston group began rebuilding the family’s home. Transparency was at the core of the project, with daily updates and photos shared to show the impact of every penny raised.

The house was completed in just 18 days – a testament to the power of collaboration and dedication. The handover ceremony was an emotional moment, marking the restoration not only of a home but also of hope and dignity. Fortunately, with the large amount that Merchiston had raised, two more homes are currently in the pipeline to be restored.

Creating a Long-Term Impact

This initiative was not a one-off effort. Inspired by their experience, Merchiston has committed once again to raise funds for their next long-haul tour to South Africa in 2026. Back home, students and parents are eagerly preparing to begin fundraising for the next phase of this meaningful mission. 

MC’s leadership played a pivotal role in the project’s success. His authenticity and unwavering passion resonated deeply with the Merchiston group, encouraging them to view their efforts as part of a larger mission to bring about sustainable change in Langa.

A Lesson in Global Citizenship

For the students of Merchiston, this journey was life changing. They returned home with more than just stories of sporting victories; they came back with a profound understanding of privilege, responsibility, and community. This experience challenged their perspectives, instilling a sense of global citizenship that will guide them for years to come.

A Message to Other Schools

Merchiston’s story is a testament to the incredible impact schools and sports teams can have when they step outside their comfort zones and engage meaningfully with communities. It’s a powerful reminder that trips like these can transcend sightseeing or competition – they can become a platform for creating lasting change.

For schools considering similar tours, the lesson is clear: with passion, collaboration, and a commitment to transparency, your efforts can leave a legacy that extends far beyond the trip itself.

If you’d like to explore ways your school can get involved, contact us today. Together, we can help create more stories like this – stories of restored dignity and shared humanity