About Us

Our Story

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2008 – 2024
Grassroots community service in Ward 4 and surrounding areas
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May 2024
Opening Doors NPO NPC officially registered
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Sep 2024
Founder and family emigrate from the UK
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Oct 2024
Formal programmes launch, funded entirely without government grants
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2025
Delivering measurable impact
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2026+
Expanding into a two-site model: a Baby Home and Community Centre

Opening Doors NPO NPC was formally registered in May 2024, but our roots go back more than 15 years of grassroots volunteering in the Outer West of Durban. In 2024, our founder, Claire Revell, decided to emigrate from the UK with her family to found Opening Doors here on the ground.

Today we work hand-in-hand with the communities of Esikhelekehleni, Inchanga and Hammarsdale (in the Valley of 1000 Hills) to create safe spaces and new opportunities for children, young mothers and families. Read more in Our Journey →

Over the years, our founder has built strong partnerships with local schools, Community Care Givers, ward leadership, traditional authorities and government services including SAPS, SASSA and Home Affairs, giving Opening Doors deep local trust and a proven track record long before our formal registration.

Claire sharing a laugh with a Gogo during a home visit
Claire sharing a laugh with a Gogo on a home visit.

Our Mission

Open doors to education, a safe space and new opportunities. Helping to break the cycle of adversity, ensuring a brighter future for every child we serve.

The Big Vision

A community where every child is valued, protected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Learning should be considered not only as a tool for eradicating poverty but also as an opportunity to ignite a revolution for future progress.
Claire Revell, Founder

Our Core Values

We recognise that every child is unique, with their own set of needs, strengths, and challenges. Our approach to care is personalised, taking into account each child's background, experiences, and developmental stage, creating a nurturing environment where children feel seen, heard, and valued as individuals.

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Child-Centric

Our guiding principle in every policy, programme and interaction, ensuring the best interests and wellbeing of the children we serve remain our top priority.

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Collaboration

We partner with local organisations, authorities and community members to maximise our impact and reach for the greater good of the children we serve.

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Empowerment

We give children the support, tools and opportunities to navigate challenges and emerge stronger, more resilient individuals.

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Inclusive

We celebrate the diversity of our community, creating a welcoming environment where every child feels valued and empowered to thrive.

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Safety & Security

The safety of the children entrusted to our care is paramount. We maintain strict protocols to ensure a secure environment, free from harm.

Our Journey

From a holiday in Durban to a one-way flight from the UK, read the full story of how Opening Doors came to be.

Read Our Journey

Meet The Team

Dedication. Expertise. Passion. Get to know the people behind Opening Doors.

Meet The Team
To a safe space & new opportunities. ♥