Our Vision
We envision youth-led literacies across South Africa
Who We Are
A passionate team committed to youth, literacy, and community.
Project XXI was born from a shared dream: to make literacy a right, not a privilege. It began with Vuyokazi Jamieson, a visionary librarian whose career has spanned the most respected educational institutions in South Africa. Her tireless work—from implementing Yale-modeled programs at Rhodes University to leading the transformation of the Cawse Library at St Andrew’s College—has always had one central focus: giving young people the power to access knowledge. In 2019, she was named LIASA Eastern Cape Librarian of the Year, and as a Fulbright Fellow at Penn State, her work gained global recognition. She founded Project XXI to channel that passion into a broader mission—empowering communities through literacy.
Alongside her, Co-Founder Sebastian Jamieson brought a different but deeply aligned vision. With a background in sound engineering, systems administration, and media production, Sebastian saw how technology and storytelling could elevate voices and build bridges between communities. His years working with the International Library of African Music and Kingswood College, as well as his role in Access Music Project, gave him a clear view: access changes everything. Together, Vuyokazi and Sebastian laid the foundation for an organization built on inclusion, access, and action.
They were soon joined by others who shared this passion. Kuhle Gontshi, raised in a family where education was both a tradition and a calling, brought youthful energy and a strategic mind shaped by her studies in Hospitality and Human Resources. Her love for books and her drive to uplift underserved communities made her a natural leader within Project XXI. Her goal is to lead literacy initiatives that are rooted in kindness, empowerment, and hope for a better future.
Rushay Booysen, a cultural curator and connector, joined the team with decades of experience working with artists, students, and scholars around the world. His work in hip-hop, human rights, photography, and education bridges communities and continents. Whether speaking at NYU or Stanford, or showcasing African art in Dubai, Rushay’s mission has always been about amplifying African narratives. Through Project XXI, he brings this same power to local schools and grassroots initiatives.
Nonkoliseko Mekuto brought a deep understanding of logistics, customer service, and community engagement. With over 18 years in operations and a degree in Tourism, she ensures the organization functions efficiently and sustainably. Her belief in the power of education to change lives drives her leadership on the board, where she fosters partnerships and steers long-term strategy with compassion and clarity.
Zoleka rounds out the team with unmatched administrative expertise. With 28 years in executive support, financial oversight, and human resources, she is the engine that ensures Project XXI runs smoothly. Her integrity, resilience, and attention to detail have supported both provincial and national boards—and now, Project XXI benefits from that same excellence as she keeps the wheels turning behind the scenes.
Together, this diverse team forms the heart of Project XXI. Each director brings a unique lens—education, technology, culture, logistics, leadership, and administration—but they are united by a shared belief: that every child deserves the chance to grow, to read, to dream, and to lead.
Project XXI is more than a non-profit. It’s a movement—a collective promise to shape a more literate, just, and empowered South Africa.
Our Approach
Youth at the Center
Nothing About Them Without Them
- Learners select books that speak to their lives
- Students lead book clubs and reading campaigns
- Youth help shape their school’s library culture
- Every step is done with, not for them
At the heart of Project XXI is collaboration with youth. We believe in designing with, not for—inviting young people to co-design their own spaces and programs.
“We’re not just reading books—we’re rewriting our futures.”
01.
— Our Mission
To advance literacy by co-creating inclusive, youth-led libraries and book clubs that inspire a lifelong love of reading and empower communities across South Africa.
02.
— Our Vision
A South Africa where every young person can read, imagine, and rise—supported by books, youth-inspired learning spaces, and the freedom to dream, lead, and thrive.
03.
— Our Core Values
Youth-Centered
We believe young people are not just beneficiaries—they are leaders and co-creators.
Equity
We build with, not for. We listen, collaborate, and meet each community where they are.
Access
Books, spaces, and literacy opportunities should be for everyone, not just the privileged few.
Joy of Reading
We nurture a deep, joyful connection to stories, imagination, and lifelong learning.
Community-Centered
We work hand-in-hand with schools, teachers, and families to build sustainable, local solutions.
Respect for Local Voices
Every project honors the language, culture, and identity of the community it serves.