About us

Our story

After years of dreaming and planning, Nama Youth Guardians (NPC K2025/091433/08, 333-445-NPO) was founded in January 2025 to meet the urgent need for child welfare and protection in Namaqualand, with a special focus on Port Nolloth. Our organisation is named after the Nama people, whose resilience and strength have shaped the vibrant heritage of the region. Inspired by their enduring spirit, we are dedicated to safeguarding and empowering the youth of Namaqualand, providing them with the care, guidance, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Our logo, the Gazania flower, represents the heart of our mission. Native to the region, this hardy bloom flourishes even in the harshest environments, transforming the landscape with its vivid colours. Just like the Gazania, the youth we support possess the strength to overcome adversity and the potential to thrive, bringing hope and renewal to their communities.

At Nama Youth Guardians, we believe that every child deserves a future filled with possibility. Together, we are sowing the seeds of change, one child at a time

What makes us unique

We focus on unlocking a child’s potential and helping them see that they have the power to transform the world. Rather than emphasizing the struggles and adversities they face, we choose to highlight their strengths and possibilities. We believe that children are not just products of their environment—they are capable of rising above it and creating a future full of opportunity.

Vision and mission

Our Vision

To create a safe and supportive environment where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive, discover their potential, and become a force for positive change. We envision a world where children do not need protecting. A world that supports children to reach their full potential. We dream of a world where children don’t need protection, where they are already safe, loved, and empowered to build their future. A world where every child has the chance to succeed, no matter their past.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide a safe, nurturing environment for children in need, where they can heal, grow, and thrive. Through our programs, we offer safety, education, leadership development, and community outreach to ensure every child has the support they need to build a brighter future.

Our Values

Empowerment: We believe in unlocking the full potential of every child.
Community: We work hand-in-hand with local communities to create lasting change.
Hope: We offer children hope for a better future and the tools to make it a reality.
Integrity: We approach our work with honesty, transparency, and dedication.

Meet the guardians

Board of directors

Jan Pieterse
Chairperson

Anita Uys
Vice-chairperson

Petro Pieterse
(Secretary)

Estefan Pieterse
(Treasurer)

Core management

Estefan Pieterse
(Executive director)

Petro Pieterse
(Programs director)

Get involved

The work we do would not be possible without the support of our community. Whether it’s donating, volunteering, or partnering with us, there are many ways you can get involved. Together, we can create a brighter future for the children of Namaqualand.

” I believe we are fighting for something, not against something ”
Kamala Harris