Community and youth upliftment
Community first, in practice
DigiDeeds is led by the communities we work in. The app sits in the hands of the people who live there, and we work alongside the ward councillors and offices that already serve them. Neighbours confirm where you live, and whether you are an owner, renter, or resident, using what they already know.
DigiDeeds Activation teams live there themselves. They handle sign-up, explain how DigiDeeds works, and earn the trust that holds it together. Recognition starts where it matters most.
We work on the proof that this is your home, The Shackbuilder works on the home itself, and a family needs both.
Community impact
Quinton Adams, founder of The Shackbuilder
Quinton Adams is the founder of The Shackbuilder, a South African non-profit dedicated to transforming informal settlements into safer, more dignified living spaces. With over two decades of experience as an educational psychologist, ethnographic researcher, lecturer, author, and social consultant, Quinton has devoted his career to uplifting communities across Cape Town and beyond. He also leads Masekhane Development Solutions, a consultancy focused on sustainable social interventions and community transformation.
The Shackbuilder Movement
Launched after devastating storms in 2017, The Shackbuilder Movement works to provide safer, more resilient housing in Cape Town's informal settlements. What started as an emergency response has grown into a structured initiative, formally registered as The Shackbuilder NPC.
The movement is powered by local contractors and community members, with an emphasis on:
- Dignity: creating safe, respectful living conditions
- Health: improving shelter and reducing exposure to hazards
- Sustainability: building long-lasting, practical solutions
Impact so far:
- 50 or more new shacks constructed
- Food and relief distributed during harsh winters
- Emergency support provided for fire and flood victims
Training and youth empowerment
Through the Backyard Varsity programme, Quinton drives youth empowerment by equipping unemployed youth with practical construction skills, enabling them to become certified shack builders.
Highlights:
- Over 100 young people trained
- Hands-on construction experience
- Job readiness, employability skills, and long-term youth empowerment
- Restoring dignity and purpose through meaningful work
Community recognition and media features
Quinton's efforts have received national recognition, earning nominations such as e.tv South African Hero, along with features on:
- e.tv
- eNCA
- SABC 2
- kykNET
- Local radio programmes
Beyond building, his humanitarian contributions include providing food parcels, beds for the homeless, and emergency relief during winter crises.
The Shackbuilder at work
Ways to contribute
Support The Shackbuilder Movement and the young people it trains, so families gain dignity, safety, and recognition in their communities.
Donate
Contributions go to families and the people working on the ground (local builders, youth teams, and DigiDeeds Activation teams). Your gift means safer homes and stronger families.
Volunteer
Offer your time and skills (from construction support to mentoring and youth programmes) so communities can build with dignity.
Share and advocate
Raise awareness by sharing The Shackbuilder's work, backing the young people it trains, and inviting others to stand with families working towards safer homes.