Following an extensive recruitment process that began in March, Book Dash has announced a new executive director to succeed Julia Norrish, who stepped down earlier this year after many years of dedicated service. Julia was instrumental in building Book Dash into the highly respected organisation it is today. Her departure leaves a significant void—not just within Book Dash but across the literacy and education sector as a whole. Her unwavering passion for education was evident in all she did, and she leaves behind large shoes to fill.
Book Dash has now confirmed the appointment of Thembalethu Shangase as Julia's successor—and it's safe to say, they couldn't have found a more fitting candidate.
Thembalethu brings with her a strong background in education, digital skills, and entrepreneurship, and is exceptionally well-positioned to guide Book Dash into its next chapter. Her expertise will be vital to advancing the organisation’s core mission: to ensure that every South African child owns at least 100 books by the age of five. Book Dash achieves this through the creation, design, and printing of African storybooks, supported by a passionate network of volunteers and donors.
The announcement of Thembalethu’s appointment was met with great enthusiasm. Book Dash shared the following statement:
“With a deep passion for equity, early childhood education, and systems change, Thembi brings a powerful blend of strategic leadership and heartfelt purpose to our vision: that every child should own a hundred books by the age of five. A highly respected voice in the non-profit sector, Thembi has spent her career championing access and opportunity for underserved communities. Her work has consistently driven impact through clarity, compassion, and collaboration. She stands out as an outcomes-driven leader who will both honour what we have built and help us grow, bringing the right combination of clarity and curiosity for this next stage in Book Dash’s journey.”
In her response to the announcement, Thembalethu shared:
“Book Dash’s mission deeply resonates with me. In a country marked by profound inequality, it is not difficult to imagine a household without a single book. Our work isn’t just necessary—it’s urgent. Early literacy changes everything, from brain development to long-term socio-economic outcomes. Without adequate investment in early education,- I feel- subsequent intervention along the human development continuum risk being perpetually reactive measured. I am honoured to lead this incredible team into our next chapter"
As South Africa continues to confront foundational literacy challenges, organisations like Book Dash remain vital to our communities. Their tireless work is helping to shift outcomes, drive progress, and provide access where it is most needed. As they welcome their new leader, there is a renewed sense of hope and purpose. Thembalethu’s appointment marks a promising new era for Book Dash, one built on shared vision and united goals.
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