Building futures that outlast us
Almal Foundation works with communities, government and partners on long-term projects in KwaZulu-Natal. Our work is rooted in Ubuntu and aims to build resilience, opportunity and sustainability.
Four pillars guide our work
Every project we take on is linked to one of four pillars. This keeps our work focused on lasting change rather than one-off efforts.
Heritage
Cultural identity and family history as a source of economic dignity.
Space
Safe, welcoming public spaces for learning and movement.
Ecosystem
Caring for the environment as part of community health.
Horizon
Wider access to opportunity for young people.
Our current initiatives
In 2026 we renewed our focus on four projects, one for each pillar. Each is designed to create opportunities that last well beyond a single season.
Biyela Royal Heritage Project
Recording oral history and family records for a visitors’ centre in Obuka.
View projectDunne Road Academic Corridor
A safer, better-kept route for three Empangeni schools, developed with the City of uMhlathuze.
View projectEmpangeni Botanical Garden
A botanical garden showcasing Zululand’s biodiversity, run as a sustainable public-private partnership.
View projectSB Education Fund
Funding young people with leadership potential. The first group starts in 2027.
View projectWhat we achieved in our first years
With a small team and few resources, we delivered relief, brought government and communities together, and gave young people new experiences.
KZN storms relief
A benefit concert with Berita, Cell C and Stop Hunger, and the distribution of aid to families affected by the storms.
Women’s Empowerment Summit
A summit with the KZN Premier’s Office, King Cetshwayo District, uMhlathuze and Transnet on the Women’s Agenda.
SANParks and VW Open Park
A trip that took rural young people into a national park to learn about conservation first-hand.
Our work supports six UN Sustainable Development Goals
Our values
Ubuntu
Living by the values of Ntu: care, respect and shared humanity.
Heritage
Protecting what the next generation will inherit.
Stewardship
Taking responsibility for the places and people we work with.
Opportunity
Always looking for new ways to open doors for more people.
Help build the next generation’s future
Partners, funders and community leaders all have a part to play in this work. Get in touch to find out how you can help.