Help Vuyo build his home
The talented singer, who lost and regained his voice, is now on a mission to rebuild his life.
FEELINGS of pain, heartbreak and sorrow resonate deeply with Molweni resident Vuyo Ngwedane. Through the turmoil and challenges, Ngwedane has persevered to overcome the crippling circumstances that life threw at him.
Originally from the Eastern Cape, Ngwedane moved to the Upper Highway area to live with his sister in 2012. Recalling the day he first arrived in Molweni, Ngwedane said he remembers as if it was yesterday, “It was 6 September and it was raining heavily.”
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The 28-year-old said through all the pain he had to endure, losing his voice in 2001 was the worst chapter of his life.
“That was definitely the most terrible feeling, it hurt.”
“For five years, I could not talk, it was a very difficult time. I just woke up one day and could not talk, it was just torture,” he said.
Growing up in a rural area with little support, Ngwedane was not able to seek treatment and to this day, he still does not know the reason why he became mute.
“In 2016, I miraculously regained my voice and that is when I discovered that I could sing. Getting my voice back was the best thing that could happen,” he said.
Ngwedane who is now involved with the Waterfall Methodist Church and the Waterfall Baptist Church said, “I had just arrived in the area and was just taking a walk when a Methodist Church pastor invited me to come to church. I welcomed the invitation and when someone heard me sing, I was asked to join the worship team.”
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Later, Ngwedane was introduced to another parishioner from Waterfall Baptist Church. Prior to Covid, they would visit the Hillcrest Hospital once a week and they would translate the sermon for patients during the services.
Rebuilding his life
Ngwedane was hit with another dilemma when he almost lost his shack, the warm home he treasured.
“The owner decided to sell a few months ago. I felt as if my life was shutting down once again and it just made no sense.”
With the help of the congregants from the two churches, Ngwedane was able to buy the property with the funds raised.
He now shares the small shack with his two young nephews from the rural areas. The mother of the two teenagers passed away in 2009.
Ngwedane, who completed his matric last year at the 100 Hills tuition where he currently volunteers his services by assisting the learners, said his dream is to become a social worker. “I want to help people and be there for someone else like people have been there for me. I have an opportunity to redeem my life and I am very thankful to everyone who has been there for me,” he said.
Jackie Pollitt who contacted the Highway Mail regarding Ngwedane’s situation has appealed to the community assist.
Pollitt said she met Ngwedane in January 2014 when she joined Waterfall Methodist Church and got to know him for the fine young man that he is despite his life challenges.
“Our two church communities have come together to help this awesome man as he has enriched so many lives.
He has done a great deal for his community, especially for the youngsters. His ultimate dream is to build his house and provide for his two nephews.
“The list is never ending, he always goes out of his way to help where he can and is always willing to bring hope with his beautiful voice.”
Pollitt said the foundation has been laid and they require donations of building materials such as doors, windows, roof tiles, paint, plumbing and electrical supplies.
“We would be most grateful for anything and everything,” she said.
To assist, contact Vuyo Ngwedane on 062 852 9257 or Jackie Pollitt on 082 653 3784.
