Giving back to Queenstown
A FORMER Queenstown resident, Mbulelo Ncetezo from Queenstown has donated R10 000 to Sinako Women's Development, an organisation that helps feed and clothe poor people in Mlungisi.
Ncetezo, who is an executive manager on electricity regulation at the National Energy Regulator of South Africa in Johannesburg, said he celebrated his 50th birthday with friends a decade ago and subsequently decided to celebrate his 60th birthday by donating the money that he was going to spend on celebrations to assist the poor in his home town.
“When I had the idea, I did not know of any such organisation but a friend of mine told me about Sinako and e-mailed me a story about the work they are doing. I then decided to donate the money to them.”
He said he hoped that Sinako’s work would grow and make a positive contribution to the lives of the needy.
“I am who I am today because of Queenstown. I feel that now is the time for me to give back to the community of Queenstown.”
He said he had since witnessed the work of the project and had heard old and young tell stories of how the daily meals were helping them.
“Now I encourage Sinako to not only give these people food but teach them how to get food. They must give them knowledge.”
The Rep reported (“Making a difference in Mlungisi” October 2) that Mlungisi crime-fighting initiative, Iliso Lomzi, which works in conjunction with Sinako, had donated clothing to the organisation.
Mzwandile Ngondo speaking on behalf of Sinako said the purpose of the organisation was to change people’s lives.
“We are planning to open a laundry at the beer hall if we can get permission, so that people get their clothes washed at a lower price. We thank Ncetezo for what he has done for Sinako.”
The money would be paid to a local shop from where Sinako will get groceries.
Iliso Lomzi commander in chief Mncedisi Mbengo thanked Ncetezo for the donation and urged local business people to help them in their initiative. “We are giving poor people a meal every day at 1pm and with donations we could do more.”