At the age of 14 and with an upcoming birthday on December 11, young Nhlanhla Cindi has decided that he will be a giver rather than a receiver.
This Hoërskool President High School learner not only impressed his father with his idea, but also got the endorsement of his school and Winchester Ridge Primary School.
His father, Linda, said, “Early in August our son came to us and asked us not to buy him a gift for his birthday. He said we must rather ask his cousins, family and friends from different schools to contribute and donate clothes for one of the organisations that house children who are destitute.
“I didn’t take him seriously at first because I know how he likes his gifts, especially on his birthday. When he said he wanted to give to people who are destitute and need help, I was so impressed, especially coming from a 14-year-old,” said Linda.
A difficult year
Speaking to the CHRONICLE from their Ormonde View home, Nhlanhla said, “I remember one day my father and I went to the mall and I saw this lady who needed help with her parcels. Everyone was just passing her by and I couldn’t help but assist.
“I had a flashback of that day and I realised this year I have not done anything to help people because of Covid-19. “Since this was difficult a year with hardly anyone participating in anything, I asked my father’s help to do something to make a difference in the lives of those in need,“ Nhlanhla explained.
“I have been getting gifts since I was a child. Instead of getting a gift, especially with challenges this year, I decided to give in return.”
Give them hope
His father said when he was approached by his son with the idea he was not sure how he was to do it. So they approached different organisastions and Nkosi’s Haven responded positively to endorse his idea.
“I spoke to Gail Johnson from Nkosi’s Haven about what my son is planning to do on his birthday in December and she welcomed the idea and gave us the go-ahead,” he said.
“Nhlanhla’s previous primary school, Winchester Ridge and Hoërskool President High School, are on board to assist with receiving donations on his behalf,“ said Linda.
Nhlanhla said: “Apart from collecting clothing for those in need, I will spend my birthday with the children at Nkosi’s Haven. I just want to see people happy and enjoy their festive holidays with joy.
“Some people go through a lot out there and with this initiative, I just want to give them hope and tell them everything will come together. I just want to bring happiness to other children,” said Nhlanhla.
You can help
Nhlanhla has received his first donation of clothes and his family also donated to his initiative.
With the support of his family, friends and the two schools, Nhlanhla also needs your help to make is dream come true.
All you need to do to assist Nhlanhla in his act of kindness, is drop off your pre-loved clothing at either Hoërskool President High or Winchester Ridge Primary.
Once the boxes are full, Nhlanhla, with the help of his dad, Linda, will collect the clothing and distribute it.
