Who we are
- A world in which every father is a loving, present parent who knows their purpose and is able to provide for and protect their family
- To break the cycle of fatherlessness by journeying with fathers and young men in order to strengthen family foundations for the next generation.
Isiseko Imara is a blend of both the South African Xhosa word for foundations “isiseko” and the East African Kiswahili word for firm "imara". This unique name not only communicates our desire for building firm family foundations, but also represents the rich diversity of heritage and culture found within South Africa.
Isiseko Imara’s approach is to work alongside both local and foreign national communities in South Africa. Growing xenophobic attitudes and violence stand in the way, but we believe that an inclusive approach will enable communities to work together and learn from each other.
Our aim is to break the cycle of fatherlessness in South Africa by impacting the next generation of young men. Without a restoration of God’s heart and purpose for fatherhood, boys will continue to grow up without father-figures and young men will struggle to live up to their role as fathers. A radical change will require Biblically-sound and culturally sensitive resources, tools, knowledge and supportive relationships that will together enable young men to be active, present fathers who know their purpose and are able to provide for and protect their family.
The historical legacy of apartheid and migrant labour in South Africa had many negative impacts on the traditional family structure, which can still be felt today. A The 2023 South African General Household Survey found that 75 percent of children in KwaZulu-Natal do not reside with their biological fathers and 47 percent of households are female-headed (Stats SA, 2023). While this does not diminish the important role of single moms and kinship networks (such as step-dads, uncles, grandfathers, etc) who are filing the gap, we aim to journey with biological fathers who desire not only to financially support their children but also aspire to actively engage with their children at an emotional and spiritual level. No matter the cultural, socio-economic or relational obstacles, we believe that restoration is possible with God’s direction and the right support.
However, a restoration of God’s heart for fatherhood requires that we tackle difficult issues in South Africa such as gender-based violence and abuse, unemployment, addiction, HIV/AIDS, and traditional practices (such as lobola, or bride price) that hinder fathers from being present dads. In order to support young men in overcoming these challenges, we aim to assist in the following ways: