We believe

Access to Literacy
is a basic human right

Vuyokazi Jamieson

Our Story

Raised by a single mother who was both an educator and storyteller, I grew up seeing the world through the lens of literacy. After over 21 years in the library and information science profession, I founded Project 21 to reimagine literacy—not as a deficit to fix, but as a future to shape.

Our mission is to advance literacy across South Africa, starting in the Eastern Cape, by igniting a love of reading and building vibrant library spaces rooted in youth leadership and community voices.

Our Four Pillars

1. Renovate

2. Build

3. Engage

4. Train

  • Transform underused spaces into vibrant school libraries
  • Curate book collections with learners’ voices at the center
  • Start and support student-led book clubs
  • Empower students and teachers to sustain libraries

Impact Stories

“I never thought I could choose my own book. Now I help others find theirs too.”
Aphiwe, Student Librarian

“Before the library, I didn’t read much. Now I want to write my own book one day.”
— Luthando, Book Club Member

Our Partners