Why We Exist
The need for promoting digital wellness and responsible internet usage among children and youth is essential in the South African context and the world at large.
South Africa has a rapidly growing digital landscape, with increasing access to digital devices and the internet. However, this growth has also brought with it new challenges, including cyberbullying, online harassment, and exposure to inappropriate content.
The impact of the digital world on children and youth is significant, with studies showing that negative online experiences can lead to psychological distress, anxiety, depression, and suicide. In addition, cyberbullying and online harassment can have long-term effects on mental health and well-being. South Africa also faces other unique challenges in terms of digital access and education. Many children and youth in South Africa come from disadvantaged communities and may not have access to digital devices or the internet. This digital divide can exacerbate existing inequalities, and children and youth from these communities may be more vulnerable to negative online experiences.
Therefore, a foundation dedicated to promoting digital wellness and responsible internet usage among children and youth is essential in the South African context. By providing educational resources, training, and support, The Cyberculture Foundation can empower children and youth to navigate the digital world safely and confidently, and promote positive digital citizenship. We will work with schools, community organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure that digital education is accessible to all, including those from disadvantaged communities.
Our Team
Meet the people that are dedicated to our mission
Prof Noluxolo Gcaza
Prof Noluxolo Gcaza has always been an evangelist for cybersafety. As a mother of young children, she became increasingly concerned about the prevalence of cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content among children and the youth. Prof Gcaza holds a PhD in Information Technology focusing on Cybersecurity. Her experience in industry and academia is instrumental in developing and implementing digital initiatives and resources that promote responsible online behaviour. Motivated by her desire to make a positive change, she took action and founded The Cyberculture Foundation to promote responsible internet use and digital wellness among children and youth. Prof Gcaza calls upon other agents of change to join hands with her in co-creating a safer internet for all.
Bulelani Gcaza
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Bulelani Gcaza understands the challenges faced by young people when it comes to finding employment. Having struggled himself to find meaningful work after completing his studies, he is passionate about creating opportunities for young people to succeed. As a co-founder of The Cyberculture Foundation, Bulelani recognizes that a positive digital profile can make all the difference when it comes to securing employment. He is dedicated to helping young people create a strong online presence that reflects their skills and accomplishments. Bulelani’s background in Construction Management has equipped him with valuable skills in project management, collaboration, and
attention to detail that he brings to his work with The Cyberculture Foundation. He hopes to inspire others to join the fight for youth employment through responsible digital citizenship.
Vuyiseka Klaas
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As a survivor of cyberbullying, Vuyiseka Klaas is aware of the importance of digital wellness in our connected world and knows its effects on mental health, academic performance and well-being. She is an entrepreneur with a degree in Organizational Psychology with experience in business development, human resources management and business operations to name a few. Vuyiseka is passionate about youth empowerment as such, in 2021 she contributed a chapter for a book called 21 Life Lessons @ 21. The proceeds of the book went towards alleviating the historical student debt in higher learning
institutions. In her quest to broaden her involvement in youth empowerment, she co-founded The Cyberculture Foundation
with the strong belief that the initiative will cultivate the necessary positive attitudes and skills among youth to curb
cyberbullying. Vuyiseka encourages those who share the same vision to contribute to the fight toward a safe digital world.
Avuya Shibambu
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Avuya Shibambu is that aunt you will find sitting with the teens. With everything happening on social media, she is always informed about what her nieces are experiencing online, be it the latest trending dance or how their friends make fun of them online. The Cyberculture Foundation benefits from Avuya’s expertise as a cybersecurity researcher, enabling the team to create educational and training materials that promote cybersecurity principles. She holds a Master’s degree in Information Technology, and is currently working on a PhD topic in cybersecurity. Avuya jumped at the opportunity to join The
Cyberculture Foundation as it resonates with her passion for young children and their safety, especially online safety – which is a whole new world for them. She hopes to spark interest in others to land a hand in creating a safe digital space for children.
Funding
The Cyberculture Foundation relies on donations, grants, and sponsorships from individuals, foundations, and corporations that share its mission and values. We are committed to transparency and ensure that all funding sources are disclosed publicly.
Partners
