Ngifuna Ukuvusa Ikhaya recalls the values of ubuntu
The 29-year-old has been helping children in Palm Ridge since the beginning of 2021 but realised he could use a helping hand when their numbers increased.
Ngifuna Ukuvusa Ikhaya (NUI) clothing brand hopes to bring back the culture of ubuntu in communities and correct the growing trend of young stars relocating to suburbs instead of ploughing back into their community after graduating.
Taxi driver and founder of NUI Neo Motaung from Palm Ridge Extension One calls for unity from all community members to fight hunger and support disadvantaged families.
The 29-year-old has been helping children in Palm Ridge since the beginning of 2021 but realised he could use a helping hand when their numbers increased.
“I was giving approximately five children food every day after school. The number gradually increased and I had to figure out how I was going to assist all of them,” said Motaung.
“I thought to myself, how about I start a feeding scheme for them. So I started asking for donations from the people in the community.”
Motaung partly blamed a disturbing trend in the township, whereby parents endure the hardships of sacrificing for their children to obtain tertiary education, only for them to leave them and their siblings in the township knowing they do not have any income, while they move to suburbs.
“Most of them are working but fail to help their parents and support their children. But they are driving nice or expensive cars, wearing fancy clothes while their children don’t have school shoes or anything to wear.
“With this brand, I intend to motivate our youth and individuals to stand together and know that family and friends are important. When the grass is greener on your end, don’t forget the people who contributed towards it.”
He said it is for this reason he has initiated NUI, which translates to I want to wake up home,. He intends to bring consciousness to youngsters and remind them where they come from.
According to Motaung, his brand aims to help those who are in need, poverty-stricken families who are suffering from hunger.
He said there are many children dropping out of school because they cannot focus because they do not have uniforms or have to attend classes on an empty stomach.
“I would be happy if we can get some sponsors who can help build a better future for those who are challenged by poverty.
“I would like to motivate our brothers and sisters who have businesses to try and help the people from our communities.”
Motaung said they are focusing on sourcing help for disabled children who are struggling with no proper healthcare and the ability to show their skills and talent due to a lack of support and sponsorship.
“My wish is to open a computer centre where we can teach children computer skills. At the moment we are using a small internet café where only a limited number of children can be accommodated,” he said.
To support this initiative contact Motaung on 074 685 5391 or at ngifunaukuvusaikhaya@gmail.com
