Gogo Thandi missed by Zululand children

COMMUNITY members have lauded the sacrificial contribution of gogo Thandi Gaza of Ndabayakhe after her sad and unexpected passing last week.

The 68-year-old was instrumental in continuing the work of former Zululander, Diane Meij, who founded the Feed The Children Zululand fund.

The association was formed after the death of Thandi’s daughter during childbirth left her with an ill grandchild, Angel (Samukelisiwe) who Di had offered to take home to nurse.

After a full recovery, Di visited Thandi’s home where it became apparent that there was a great need to implement change and together began their mission by selling off unwanted goods donated by friends and the community of Empangeni, to raise money.

‘We were known as the ‘Pied Pipers’ of Ndabayakhe, when the children saw the van arrive they followed us all the way to Thandi’s house, awaiting the treat of the moment,’ said Diane.

Rapidly the number grew and thus the fund was born. With the help of a local based company and negotiating with the Nduna of Ndabayakhe, the first crèche was built in 2001 followed closely by a second, and the first Aids clinic two years later, which is still fully operational.

When the decision to immigrate arose in 2006, Di along with Thandi’s granddaughter journeyed to New Zealand, with Thandi remaining to finish the work she had started, despite her deteriorating health, until the fund ended in 2012.

Thandi devoted 11 years of her life to help the children in her community. There were times she feared her life but continued to hold the reins.

‘Although I founded the project, this would not have been possible had I not had the sincerity and dedication of my special gogo,’ said Di.

Thandi’s legacy lives on in her grandchild 16-year-old Angel who is now an excelling pupil rising beyond all expectations.

‘This is what has made a big difference, a child has been given a chance in life and she is the proof in the pudding.’