Empowering Communities Through Education: Our Commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility at Global Business Solutions
- Thembi Chagonda
- Jul 17
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 21

At Global Business Solutions (GBS), we have always believed in the power of giving back to the communities that have supported us over the years. As an organisation, we recognise the importance of not only empowering individuals within our own company but also contributing to the growth and development of our broader society. This is why I am incredibly proud to share one of the projects that is closest to my heart: our partnership with MK Academy and the Grow ECD project.
Why This Project Means So Much to Me
Throughout my leadership journey, I have always been passionate about education, specifically about creating opportunities for those who face barriers to quality learning. In South Africa, we know that access to education is often not equal, especially in underserved communities. That's why early childhood development (ECD) is so critical. It is the foundation upon which children build their futures, and it is crucial that every child, no matter their background, has access to quality education. This is where Grow ECD comes in.
As a company, we are deeply involved in initiatives that not only promote skills development and upskilling within GBS but also extend to the communities we serve. Through this partnership with MK Academy, we are working to provide top-quality early education and ensure the sustainability of ECD centres, particularly those run by women entrepreneurs in underserved communities.
What the Grow ECD Project Achieves
Grow ECD offers a holistic approach to early childhood education, ensuring that business owners, teachers, and the communities they serve are equipped with the resources, training, and tools needed to thrive. Through this project, we are helping to develop financially sustainable ECD centres, which, in turn, provide quality education to children, empowering them to unlock their full potential from an early age.
This initiative is particularly close to my heart, as it directly supports women who are the backbone of many of these ECD centres. Many women in these communities lack access to the resources, mentorship, and training they need to run successful businesses. Through Grow ECD, we are providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to not only run sustainable businesses but also raise the standard of education for the next generation of South Africans.
Aligning with Our Core Mission and Vision
At GBS, we see the importance of aligning our corporate social responsibility initiatives with our core mission. Our focus has always been on training and upskilling—whether it’s within our organisation or in the broader community. Supporting Grow ECD allows us to contribute directly to a cause that mirrors our values and furthers our mission to provide sustainable development opportunities for all.
Through this partnership, we are proud to invest in a project that has a direct, measurable impact on the children and communities we serve. It’s not just about providing education; it’s about creating an ecosystem that supports the growth and development of individuals, families, and businesses. This is exactly the kind of impact we aim to make at GBS.

Looking Ahead
I believe deeply in the power of education to change lives. This project is an exciting step forward for us, and I am thrilled to see it grow. As we continue to support initiatives like Grow ECD, we remain committed to fostering an environment where everyone—especially women and children—has the tools and resources to build a better future.
With Nelson Mandela Day coming up this week, we reflect on the impact we can have in creating a more just and equal society. At GBS, we are proud to play a role in that by helping to shape the future through education and empowerment. I look forward to the positive changes this project will bring to the communities we serve and to seeing it grow in the years ahead.
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