Project Zulu choir celebrates another record-breaking tour

Nearly £37,000 was raised during three unforgettable weeks of the 2025 Project Zulu choir tour – setting a new fundraising record since the tour began in 2013.

In May, twenty talented young singers and five teachers from Sipheni Senior Primary School and Sithobelumthetho Primary School in Madadeni Township, South Africa, travelled to the UK to perform their traditional Zulu song and dance in concert halls and schools, and busk in city centres.

They filled venues across the South West and Wales with joy, rhythm and powerful performances and the response they received was overwhelming.

Thanks to the generosity of concert audiences, supporters and local partners, the tour raised £36,894.61 – the highest-profit tour in Project Zulu’s history.

This incredible achievement will directly benefit the two schools, with funds being used to harness solar energy and equip digital classrooms with the technology and resources needed to support modern learning. These developments will create long-term educational benefits for current and future learners. 

Dr Ben Knight, director of Project Zulu at UWE Bristol, said: “For me, Project Zulu choir tours never get old. The 2025 tour was our sixth since 2013 and the children, their talent and enthusiasm, the power of their performances and their impact on Bristol always gives me goosebumps and makes me extremely proud to lead Project Zulu. The fact that this year’s tour raised such a whopping amount just adds to my excitement. I can’t wait to see this money put to good use to change educational futures in Madadeni Township schools.”

Throughout the tour, the choir performed in Bristol, Bath, Cardiff and Pembrokeshire, with some standout moments that will stay with them and their audiences for years to come. One of the highlights was the Gala Concert at Bristol Beacon, singing together and sharing the stage with Britain’s Got Talent finalist Innocent Masuku. The choir were also invited to perform at a Bristol Bears rugby match and took part in a special community concert in St Davids, organised with the support of Celtic Camping and the St Davids Penknife Club. These performances not only showcased the choir’s incredible talent but also helped build meaningful connections with audiences across the UK.

Away from the stage, the tour offered powerful moments of cultural exchange and connection. The children stayed with host families throughout their visit, forging bonds and experiencing life in the UK first-hand. They visited six schools in Bristol (collectively raising over £10,000), took part in lessons, delivered workshops, and even made live appearances on local radio.

Many of the choir members experienced things for the first time - from riding ferries and trying new foods, to their very first game of 10-pin bowling. Along the way, the children shared their culture, embraced new experiences and built connections that will stay with them well beyond the tour – both in their classrooms and their communities back home. 

Kate Willis, Project Zulu Coordinator, added: “A tour of this scale simply wouldn’t be possible without the support of so many people. From the host families who welcomed the children into their homes, to the volunteers, schools, venues and organisations who offered their time and resources - we are deeply grateful. Your generosity, enthusiasm and care helped make this tour such a success and gave every choir member memories that will last a lifetime. 

“Thank you to everyone who played a part in the 2025 Project Zulu choir tour. The impact of your support will continue to be felt in the classrooms of Madadeni and in the hearts of everyone involved.”