Gaby Jaffe on why she volunteers with ABCA

My name is Gaby Jaffe - some may  know me as being Ben and Elise’s sister-in-law.

This is perhaps a subtle clue as to how I became involved and connected to ABCA and  the phenomenal work which they do. 

From the conception of ABCA, Martin, (spouse of mine and  sibling of Elise’s), and I have been involved in some small way and have participated in the remarkable journey. We have been in awe of the tremendous success of this special charity - shipping books to Africa, who would have ‘thunk it’? Well clearly, the Margows did, and their vision has become a reality. 

We have watched from the sidelines, in awe, as Elise and Ben have tirelessly navigated the rough cargo seas - working through all the administration and obstacles, in order to get the charity off the ground and running smoothly. 

There have been fundraisers, book packing, bbqs and get togethers, connecting and forging ahead to make a literacy difference in the lives of students in a far away land. 

The absolute highlight was being privy  to a presentation of books at a school In Johannesburg last year. We were present when the students gingerly held the  books for the first time. The reaction of the grateful recipients was something quite memorable. 

To witness all of Ben and Elise’s efforts come to fruition and just being a tiny part of their huge success, makes me feel immensely proud and privileged. 

Posted September 2023

Written by Gaby Jaffe