Three thousand pounds has been raised to support Karolyn and Martin Simbeye’s vision of building a school in Zambia. 
Guests at the Vinjeru School Charity Launch event at the St George’s Centre on Saturday night arrived to the sound of the Songo African Drumming Project and the sight of an ice-carving donated by the Royal Armouries International. They then experienced a feast of canapés supplied by Harrogate International Centre, more music from Leeds musicians and the opportunity to bid in an auction for some specifically commissioned pieces of artwork.
The couple said ‘It was a fantastic evening, we loved seeing everyone having a great night whilst also showing support for such a worthwhile cause. We are really grateful to all those that helped us get the event off the ground and launch the charity in such style.’
The couple now live in Beeston in Leeds but are emigrating in autumn 2011 to the southern African country of Zambia to set up a school for underprivileged children.
“I never thought I would want to move to Africa” says Karolyn, “but Martin and I really wanted our marriage to have a common purpose, and there’s such a need for affordable, high quality education in Martin’s native Zambia. We’ve called the school Vinjeru, which means wisdom with the symbol of a kite as we believe that our school will help the next generation of Zambians to fly high.”
The Simbeye’s face a massive challenge to establish a school and relocate their family, the project needs £50,000 for its first two years, and all the school equipment will need to be shipped over. “Our cellar is full of books and teaching materials which have all been donated to us, which we are very thankful for, we’re now asking for sports and science equipment also,” says Karolyn.
“We’re also encouraging people to sponsor a child’s education so that we can offer free places to the people who need it most. We’ve had so much support from people in Leeds, with one teacher saying that she’d like to come and join us in Zambia. Saturday’s event has raised money but has also helped to capture people’s imagination and heart for our vision for Zambia. “
Notes to Editors:
- For interviews please contact Karolyn Simbeye, 07921 556322
- For further information www.vinjeruschooltrust.org
- Photographs by Mark Russell
- Image 1- Songo Drumming Project performing
- Image 2 Left to Right, Martin, Karolyn, Mr. and Mrs Jamu, Seme Simbeye
- Image 3 Martin and Karolyn talking about the project.
- Image 4 Standing L to R: Mary Thomson, Becky Gransden, Ray Imasiku, Safila Sichone Imasiku, Mr and Mrs Kabwe. Seated L to R: Barry Gransden, Mr and Mrs Nyambe, Heidi Mbulo, Thandi Mbulo
