Breede Valley Association of and for Persons with Disabilities (BVAPD)
What does your company do?
The Breede Valley Association for Persons with Disabilities (BVAPD) is a non-profit organisation serving individuals with disabilities across the Breede Valley region, encompassing Worcester, Rawsonville, De Doorns, and Touws River. Their efforts are focused on inclusive governance, social work, education and childcare, employment, and community outreach.
BVAPD offers a variety of services, including therapeutic support, youth development, early childhood interventions, and home-based care. Their Skills Development Training programmes provide adults with disabilities with practical skills in areas such as laundry services, recycling, woodwork, catering, and hospitality, aiming to foster independence and community participation.
A key initiative is Knippie Liefde, a hospitality training unit. This programme provides young adults with disabilities hands-on experience in catering, event support, and a food assistance programme, contributing to both personal development and local community needs. BVAPD's overarching goal is to cultivate a more inclusive Breede Valley.
What is your biggest success?
Knippie Liefde has not only consistently delivered on its skills development goals but has also become recognised for its service excellence. A significant achievement was leading the team in catering the BVAPD Gala Evening, where they professionally served over 200 guests, showcasing the participants' growth and capabilities. In 2024, the project was honoured with an invitation to the Kinderfonds Mamas Conference, demonstrating their ability to manage high-profile events with distinction. They also provided catering for an executive breakfast hosted by a local trust, where the team again delivered outstanding service and meticulous attention to detail.
Beyond training and enterprise activities, Knippie Liefde runs a food parcel initiative that supports vulnerable community members, significantly extending their social impact. Witnessing the transformation of beneficiaries and the ripple effect on their families and communities has been a truly humbling and immensely rewarding experience.
What has been your biggest hurdle?
One of the most significant challenges I’ve faced in managing the Knippie Liefde programme has been the lack of consistent funding and resources needed to sustain and expand our impact. While the demand for skills development among young adults with disabilities is high, financial constraints often limit the number of participants we can support and the scope of services we can offer. Another persistent hurdle is shifting public perception many still underestimate the abilities of persons with disabilities, which creates barriers to employment even after successful training. Balancing advocacy, daily operations, and team support can be demanding, but these challenges have only strengthened my commitment. Every time a participant gains confidence, secures employment, or delivers exceptional service at a major event, it reaffirms the importance of our work. These successes inspire me to keep pushing forward, knowing that each step contributes to a more empowered future for our beneficiaries.
