FROM sharing an interest in music to brainstorming ideas on how to uplift their community, a group of Clermont friends have partnered to stay in tune with their altruistic vision.
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The Clermont-based non-profit organisation, Ubhaqalwethu Community Development Project was started three years ago, not only alleviate poverty but to uplift residents.
“It has not been an easy journey, but we try to keep it going,” said deputy chairman, Zakhele Ngidi.
Ngidi said although the challenges they faced while growing were different, they remain united in their vision for the future.
“Music brought us together and we uplifted each other. We hope to bring that back so that we can make our area a better place for the upcoming generation,” he said.
The group, which comprises mostly of men, said its painful to look at the lack of progress in the area. “There are so many issues with young people, one of the main concerns being youth who are hooked on whoonga,” said Ngidi.
The NPO feeds about 300 people on the weekends. “There is a municipal feeding scheme which runs from Monday to Friday.”
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He said it always concerned them that these people had nothing to eat on weekends.
The members said they usually use money from their own pocket to buy food and prepare nutritious meals.
“It has been hard but we were very fortunate to recently receive a donation from Imana which has helped us a lot and we are grateful. We also had local businessmen such as Nkosinathi Phili, Derrick Mhlongo and Mdu Ngcobo who also played a huge part in keeping our vision alive,” added Ngidi.
The organisation is also passionate about working with youth. They set up a soccer club recently to help provide a platform for young residents to unite and showcase their skills on the field.
What’s on the pipeline:
Other projects, which are in the pipeline, include extra classes for learners and distributing clothes to the underprivileged.
“We have already approached retired educators to help the children especially with maths, science and history. We do not want them to focus on sport only but to also do well academically,” he said.
Ngidi appealed to anyone who can assist them in any of their projects to contact Thandeka Mzolo on 079 149 8784 or Maduna on 082 644 5158.
Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting
