De Lille's role as ambassador to Christel House will see her championing the school's education model, which seeks to transform the lives of impoverished children and their communities by providing free, quality education and a unique learning experience in a secure and stable environment.
"I cannot believe what I have seen at Christel House. The energy, the passion and the talent of the learners is astounding. I have always done a great deal of work in impoverished communities where children can get locked into the cycle of poverty, and it is not an easy cycle to break. Yet Christel House is doing just that by transforming lives and communities," she said.
According to CHSA CEO, Nicky Sheridan, the school takes on a holistic approach and offers 745 students, ranging from Grades R-12 a solid education, transport to and from school, regular healthcare, nutritious meals, career guidance counselling and coaching, extra-curricular activities, family assistance and employability support - which crucially extends to the years after they graduate.
"We ensure that we graduate young citizens of South Africa who are ready and able to make a difference to the future of the country."
"We are thrilled to welcome Mayor De Lille into the Christel House family. We are a group of committed and passionate people who are determined to make a difference in the lives of our children, their families and communities. There is strong evidence that our model works. We have had a 100% matric pass rate since 2009 and a 62% bachelor pass success. 95% of matriculants are studying at tertiary level or are employed," Sheridan said.
Since the CHSA model has been proven, Sheridan said the school now needs to share the news with everyone.
"Mayor De Lille's profile will help us to achieve that. She understands, she really does 'get it' and she shares our passion for our less fortunate people.
"The school is a shining example of what can be achieved in education in South Africa. But teachers, learners and schools like ours need the support of business and government to help roll out this kind of quality education to more children. Our aim is to ensure that the school is sustainable and to build more such schools in the country to reach more children and change more lives 'one child at a time'," Sheridan said.
