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The trajectory of Thobeka Mduduma’s life, and that of countless others, was forever altered by a simple, yet touching moment on the streets of KwaZakhele.
At 65 years old, Mduduma reflects on the day when the anguished cries of a hungry child pierced her community, sparking a journey of compassion and service that continues to resonate to this day.
In her role as a domestic worker in Gqeberha, Mduduma encountered the heart-wrenching scene that would serve as the catalyst for her life’s work. Moved by the child’s distress, she was sad to learn that the child’s bitter cry was because of the lack of money for bread. She then took it upon herself to provide sustenance for the child, a gesture that ignited a fire within her soul.
Mduduma said,
Driven by a deep-seated desire to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable children in her community, the domestic worker embarked on a mission to establish a soup kitchen, drawing upon her own wages to fund the endeavour. With the support of her employer at the time, Desire Perry, Mduduma’s humble initiative blossomed into a beacon of hope for the community of KwaZakhele.
“We started to make pamphlets and distributed them in my neighbourhood to support the soup kitchen, which was 25 years ago. Today, that same soup kitchen makes meals six days a week, feeding 80 children,” shared Perry, reflecting on the evolution of their shared vision.
Through unwavering dedication and community support, the two women nurtured the growth of the soup kitchen, eventually formalising their efforts under their non-profit organisation, Sithandiwe, in 2011.
Translating to “We are loved” in isiXhosa, Sithandiwe embodies the spirit of compassion and solidarity that underpins their mission.
Under Mduduma’s leadership as chairperson, and Perry’s stewardship as treasurer, Sithandiwe NPO has expanded its reach, encompassing projects such as the Siyanqoba Soup Kitchen and Malukhanye Pre-School.
Despite facing challenges in securing funding, including a recent health setback, Mduduma remains undeterred in her commitment to serving the community.
“The children love me, and they keep me going. We continue to trust God for help, especially with the soup kitchen since we get a very small subsidy from the government, which we sometimes get and sometimes we don’t get,” expressed Mduduma, her resolve unwavering.
As the organisation grapples with ongoing maintenance needs and funding gaps, both Mduduma and Perry remain steadfast in their dedication to uplifting the vulnerable children of KwaZakhele. With a plea for continued support, they envision a future where their projects continue to serve as beacons of hope, nurturing the next generation with love, compassion, and opportunity.
“My heart will always remain here in South Africa. We often want to help, but we don’t always know how and what to do. I can think of no better way to ensure that the children in the local community are protected and cared for, than by supporting these projects,” affirmed Perry who has since emigrated to New Zealand, echoing the sentiments of supporters who stand in solidarity with Mduduma and Sithandiwe.
If you would like to donate to, or support the NPO, contact Thobeka Mduduma on 083 389 2987, or email Desire Perry at the e-mail des@perrysteyn.net.
