Raceview siblings team up to bring change

Making a difference at an orphanage was the last thing on her checklist, but Naledi Sambo (9) has continued on her venture to change lives.

Despite being a new child on the block and having lived in Alberton for a few months, Naledi put her dream of changing lives in motion. With the help of her mother, Thembi, Naledi led a team into giving back to Germiston-based orphanage Siyabonga Children’s Cottage during lockdown.

She passionately worked alongside Ward 106 councillor alderman Bruna Haipel and Ward 37 councillor Tiaan Kotzé.

But for her that was not enough. She recently teamed up with her brother Neo (13) by starting a community outreach initiative called Hope for Hunger. They have gone as far as introducing the initiative on social media platforms, and it has been well received.

The pair always wanted to help the less fortunate.

Through their journey, these Royal Schools Alberton learners have dedicated to selling branded star-shaped keyrings in order to assist the underprivileged. All proceeds will go towards purchasing non-perishable products for the Alberton and surrounding areas homeless.

The star-shaped keyring was inspired by the meaning behind Naledi’s name, which translates as star. According to Neo, through this initiative they aim to tackle hunger and bring about hope to the hopeless.

“We want to outshine ourselves and leave a footprint that says we were among those who changed lives. We want to help others with what we have been blessed with. We believe the initiative will change a lot of people’s lives,” he said.

He also said they want to work towards expanding and helping even more people. Neo described Naledi as a selfless youngster who easily blends in with everyone and does not mind lending a helping hand.

The pair jointly told the RECORD their similar interest is putting others first.

The idea behind the outreach programme was inspired by their mother, a franchise owner of Alberton Crossing’s Jimmy’s Killer Express.

She said: “We know that it’s a difficult time for all, and for some it is a matter of survival. We want to help bring a glimmer of hope for the hungry and show them there are still good people who care. I would like to thank Dux Clox for making these wooden stars as well as my staff.”

Should you wish to donate with any form of donations, namely pre-loved clothes or non-perishable foods, contact Thembi Sambo on 082 378 5135.

You may also visit their Facebook page on Hope for Hunger. The star-shaped keyrings range from R10 to R50.