Event Photography & Blog | Rally To Read South Africa

Birmingham Photographer Captures Bidvest's Rally to Read: A Visual Journey and Realtime Blog Travelling With South Africa’s Literacy Movement

Rally To Read | Client: Bidvest Group | South Africa  https://rally2read.blogspot.com/
A woman smiles warmly among boxes labeled "Telkom Foundation," working in a bright setting filled with organized, wrapped supplies.
Rally To Read, a joint project involving private sponsors, members of the South African business community and 140 rural schools, organised annually by McCarthy, Bidvest, The READ Educational Trust and the Financial Mail.
Inspirational quotes about the impact of visiting schools through a rally are shown on the left against a green background. "2011 Rally by numbers" data highlights participation and sponsorship details. On the right, three smiling children wave in a rural setting, conveying joy and the positive impact of the rally on local communities.
A convoy of cars drives through a rural landscape, flanked by rows of smiling schoolchildren in uniforms, clapping and waving on a dirt road.
my second year of being involved with corporate and social involvement program Rally To Read. My part is to visualise and document what happens during five "Rally Weekends",  after each rally the images are uploaded to the Rally Blogspot with a brief description of the days events. supplied images are accordingly formatted and used across  channels including print and social media
Blog created for "Rally to Read South Africa 2012" featuring a rural landscape with vehicles and people outside a building. Includes text detailing the initiative.
This gives sponsors and schools the chance to re-live the day along with raising awareness of the project to the prospective business community and public. Some of the photographs also go on to be used on the Rally Website and Program Of Events.​​​​​​​
Double-page layout titled 'KwaZulu-Natal South' with vibrant red headers. Left page lists school partnerships with contact info. Right page features a photo of smiling women in traditional attire clapping against a scenic mountain backdrop, conveying joy and cultural pride. Additional text describes regional information and rally details
A twitter post of serene rural road stretches into the distance under a soft, cloudy sky. Tall grass and trees line the roadside, conveying a sense of peaceful journey.
A procession of schoolchildren in uniform walk through rural South Africa beside a silver SUV. The scene is on a Facebook page for "Rally To Read South Africa
Once the Rally is finished I continue to promote this great, inspiring project throughout the rest of the year with upload of blog links and pictures to social media platforms Face-Book, Tumblr and Twitter. 
Once the Rally is finished I continue to promote this great and inspiring project throughout the rest of the year with upload to social media platforms Face-Book, Tumblr and Twitter. 
Blog analytics dashboard showing a page views graph from 2008 to 2013, with page views details and a world map highlighting audience locations.
Split-screen image with "Learn Africa" on the left and "Bilingual Literacy News" on the right. Articles focus on education topics: Somalia's education, South African literacy, UNESCO, with a yellow border
A woman and a man apply "Rally to Read" stickers on white SUV doors in a bright garage, conveying focus, teamwork, and community spirit.
Three people smile and examine stickers on a car window. The man in the foreground wears a black jacket, conveying a tone of curiosity and engagement.
A woman leaning over a wooden table organizes name tags. She's focused, with a notepad nearby, exuding a sense of preparation and orderliness.
Name badges, vehicle stickers and rally programs are sorted by Pam Richardson, the Rallys founder. Theres so much to organise with a total of 7 teams and 147 participants but everything runs like clockwork and by mid afternoon were done and on our way. ​​​​​​​
Breakfast At Tulbagh & Kromlin School
Saturday 5th May
Its a 6.30am start as we meet the rest of our crew in the dark street outside Tulbagh info centre, temperatures here are very autumnal, coats hats and scarves are in order for the morning at least until the sunrise.
                                                                                                                                                                           

A group of people stands under a bright streetlight on a dark night, near parked cars and leafy trees, creating a calm, nighttime atmosphere.
Two people happily embrace beside a car with an open trunk at night. They stand outside under a warm light, conveying a sense of joy and friendship.
We have about a 30 minute drive to Prince Alfred Hamlet where we meet at the Dutch Reformed Church for a very enjoyable breakfast and a briefing on the Rally To Read program, the local area and the schools we will be visiting.  
Blurred nighttime scene of a car driving on a winding road through dark mountains, with its taillights creating red streaks, evoking a sense of speed and solitude.
Cars parked in a sunlit parking lot beneath a tree with autumn leaves. A building and clear blue sky are in the background, evoking a serene morning.
A group of people gather outdoors in a circle on a grassy area, attentively listening to a person speaking. Cars and trees are visible in the background.
A woman speaks at a podium, addressing a diverse audience seated at round tables in a large hall. The atmosphere is attentive and engaged.
Audience attentively listening at an indoor event. People are seated at tables, some smiling, wearing casual jackets. The atmosphere is engaged and warm.
A group of people gathers outside, some with hands in pockets, dressed warmly. Nearby, a vehicle displays a colorful "Rally to Read" sign, suggesting a community event.
A group of 17 smiling people poses outdoors, most wearing blue aprons with "Ceres Lions" logos. The tone is friendly and community-focused.
A convoy of SUVs with "Rally to Read" signs on rear windows drives down a winding road, surrounded by lush greenery, under a clear blue sky.
A green-roofed building sits in a vast, dry field under a rugged rocky mountain, conveying isolation and rugged natural beauty.
A grove of tall trees in the foreground, set against a mountain under a clear blue sky. The scene conveys a sense of tranquility and vastness.
A vibrant outdoor scene shows a community gathering outside a long building with a green roof. Cars with “Rally to Read” signs are parked beneath leafy green trees.

We arrive at our first school  about 10am. Theres a huge turnout for the Rallys first visit to this particular school with many parents here too. The materials are unloaded from the vehicles and the program begins with a speech from the principal.
A man in a suit shakes hands with another man in casual clothing outside near parked cars. The scene is sunny, suggesting a friendly, outdoor meeting.
A group of people stand around a pickup truck with a "Silverhill Seeds and Books" box. One person hands a small wooden easel to another, creating a collaborative, outdoor atmosphere.
A smiling man and woman in red shirts carry a box together outdoors. Cars and trees are in the background under a clear blue sky, conveying teamwork.
A school assembly with uniformed children gathered outside a building with a green roof. Adults sit on chairs. A mountainous landscape is in the background.
Outdoor gathering with a diverse crowd seated in front of a building, sunlight casting long shadows. A yellow box labeled "Silverhill Seeds and Books" is prominent.
A woman with sunglasses smiles, holding rugby balls and packages. In the background, a group of people, including children, sit outdoors near a building.
Close-up of wooden frames labeled "Kromlin Gr 1" and "Kromlin Gr 2" with black marker. The wood grain and screws are visible against a warm beige wall.
A group of people stands solemnly in a shaded area, facing yellow donation bins labeled "Silver Spec Savers." A woman in a beige jacket reads from a purple book, surrounded by cardboard boxes, conveying a sense of community and reflection.
A young child in a hooded jacket looks intently ahead with a serious expression. Their hand is placed over their chest, conveying a solemn tone.
A woman in a red coat stands before a large group of children who are singing. The children, wearing dark uniforms, display engaged and focused expressions.
We are then treated to some great singing from the pupils before the READ host Brian Prehn,  gives a breakdown of what equipment has been supplied. Its clearly evident to see the joy of pupils and parents... as each box is opened there are "ooohs & ahhhs" from the crowd.
A man speaks to a diverse group of children and adults outdoors. The crowd listens attentively, with a mix of curiosity and engagement.
A diverse group of people sit in a row, wearing casual jackets, smiling and focused, suggesting warmth and camaraderie in an outdoor setting
A person reads aloud to an engaged audience seated outdoors. The audience, dressed in casual attire, listens intently. The atmosphere is educational and lively.
A man in a striped hoodie and scarf stands outside a building, facing an audience. He appears contemplative. A cardboard box is on his left.
Three people in red and black uniforms stand smiling in front of a beige wall. One man wears a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses; two women wear glasses.
A teacher with papers speaks to young children outside, while a large group of adults and children are seated in the background, suggesting a school event.
A group of three people stands in warm lighting. A man holding a paper smiles, engaging with a woman in a red scarf who crosses her arms, while a younger person looks on, smiling subtly. The scene feels friendly and conversational.
Iris Francis the Rally organiser then talks to the parents about the Rallys commitment to the pupils and explains that they will be able to see a noticeable development over the next three years in the pupils reading and writing skills, this will in turn give them the tools to further their education.
A woman in a gray shirt and red scarf speaks to a seated, diverse group outdoors. The audience listens attentively, with a mix of engaged expressions. The setting is sunny, in front of a building with windows
Elderly man in a brown hat and plaid shirt smiles warmly, amidst a group of people. The scene conveys a sense of community and contentment.
Two young boys hold illustrated sheets. One shows a girl with a dog, the other a barking dog with "Woef!!!" text. Both appear focused and intent.
Three young girls with braided hair in blue outfits and bright blue bows stand closely together. They display focused expressions in soft lighting.

Some of the children then read to the crowd in Africaans and the presentation of the certificate is made. The sponsors then have chance to chat to the pupils about their hopes and ambitions before we leave. 
A group of men, wearing caps and smiling, clap enthusiastically outdoors. Their expressions convey happiness and community spirit in a sunny setting.
Man in red hat engaging a joyful group of schoolchildren outdoors; onlookers smile, creating a warm, lively atmosphere.
A young person with short hair looks back over their shoulder, wearing a dark blue and white jacket. The warm lighting creates a gentle, thoughtful expression.
A group of smiling students in blue jackets huddle together outside a building, exuding warmth and friendship on a sunny day.
A young person stands confidently, wearing a blue shirt and black vest. In the background, a white Volkswagen with "Rally to Read" is visible, suggesting a community event.
Our Second School, Wanganella NGK Primer
 
 
A school warning sign stands beside a dusty rural road under a clear blue sky, with distant mountains and fields of dry grass in the backdrop
A group of people stand by a red Subaru with "Rally to Read" sign on the side. They appear relaxed, surrounded by open countryside and mountains.
Its about an hours drive to our next school Wanganella NGK Primer with about 140 pupils taught by 5 teachers. As we drive up to the school the children line our way cheering and clapping, its a very warm welcome indeed.
A red car, adorned with a "Dalas Fried" sign, drives past waving children and adults. Red balloons float nearby, creating a festive atmosphere.
A colorful mural of an elderly couple smiling by a quaint house with flowers. A cat and laundry are nearby, set against a cheerful, whimsical background.
Outdoor school assembly with students in red uniforms standing on a stage, facing a seated audience under a clear blue sky. A banner is displayed.
As with our first school, there is obviously a lot of pride in what they have, the grounds and gardens are immaculate with beautiful murals adorning the walls.
Children wearing white shirts and red headbands stand outdoors, holding drums. The scene is cheerful and bright, suggesting a musical performance.
Children in white shirts and black pants, adorned with red headbands, stand in a line holding musical instruments. Adults nearby observe. Bright, sunny day.
The children sing as the crew unloads the library boxes and other equipment carrying it to the area where the presentation will be made. It really is a stunning location surrounded by lush green fields and mountains.
Two men carry a yellow box labeled "Shell SA (Pty) Ltd" outside on a sunny day. One wears a maroon shirt, the other black, suggesting teamwork.
A man speaks to a large group of seated children and adults outdoors, with a scenic mountain view. Boxes labeled "Shell SA" are on a stage, conveying an educational event.

Nick from McCarthy introduces everyone and as before Brian from READ tells the group about the equipment and program, theres a really funny moment during his talk when someone's phone rings with the "move like Jagger" ringtone... super cool he proceeds to move like Jagger and treats everyone to some very funky dance moves... the crowd love him!!..
 
A man in a blue shirt raises his fists in a celebratory manner, standing in front of a red and yellow banner with an emblem, under a clear blue sky.
A joyful group of schoolchildren in uniforms, sitting outdoors, smiling and engaged. Bright sunlight enhances the lively and cheerful atmosphere.
Some of the children then perform a play on the stage,
 followed by a song and dance about wearing your favourite hat... so precious!
Three children in school uniforms sit on red chairs behind a table. One speaks into a microphone. Balloons and a school banner are visible behind them.
A person in a burgundy sweater energetically calls out with a hand by their mouth. Red and white balloons in the background convey a festive mood.
Two children stand outside in school uniforms. One wears a maroon sweater, the other a white shirt with purple suspenders. A red banner is behind them.
A young boy with glasses, wearing a white shirt and purple suspenders, energetically gestures with his finger, expressing determination and focus.
A group of children in white shirts and jeans perform outside. They wear colorful shiny hats and strike animated poses. The setting is lively and festive.
Three boys wearing red hats and white shirts gaze intently forward, suggesting curiosity or excitement. The atmosphere appears lively and festive.
A group of children stand in front of a school banner, smiling and animated. They wear uniforms and casual attire, conveying joy and togetherness.
A group of children in maroon uniforms, hugging and smiling amid a cheerful, lively scene. The focus is on two girls embracing, conveying warmth and joy.
A man in a blue shirt leans over with an orange box in front of a group of attentive schoolchildren wearing uniforms, set against a rural landscape.
A man in a blue shirt and jeans helps build a wooden structure outdoors. Two young boys in matching school uniforms watch attentively, smiling. The scene is sunny and warm.
Young child smiling warmly at the camera, wearing a white shirt and dark overalls. Sunlight highlights their joyful expression, creating a positive mood.
A young child in a maroon jacket with yellow accents and a white shirt looks into the camera. The expression is calm and thoughtful, with soft sunlight.
Smiling person in a red hat and shirt with a Shell logo holds a bottle of cherry juice against a brick wall backdrop under a clear blue sky.
Three people smiling, with a middle-aged woman holding a framed certificate. They stand against a green wall, conveying a celebratory mood.
A large group of joyful children in white and maroon uniforms pose with three adults in red and gray clothing against a red school banner.
A group of school children in uniforms gather outside. An adult in a red shirt is speaking to them. The scene is lively and outdoor chairs are visible.
This year our team has a lot more time to spend at each school as oppose to last year when we had 4 schools to deliver to. Its fantastic for the children too as they love to speak to the sponsors about their schooling and projects. Finally we are taken on a tour of the classrooms by the principal. Brian from READ points out that the school still has some books which were donated by a farmer about ten years ago. They have been laminated in plastic and in pristine condition, it serves as timely reminder to everyone of just how precious resources are to these schools.
Two smiling children, a boy and a girl, standing in a crowd outdoors. The girl wears a red bow, conveying a joyful and energetic atmosphere.
Two children smiling in front of a red and yellow banner with "Kennis is Mag" and "1976." The banner has a laurel wreath and sun design.
A smiling child in a white shirt stands with a beaming woman outdoors. A vehicle with a "Rally to Read" sign is visible in the background.
A white truck, filled with cheerful schoolchildren in uniforms, waves energetically from the back under a sunny sky. The mood is lively and joyful.
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