‘Everything is part of God’s grand design’
‘GOD never makes mistakes, but always has a plan for you,’
After a tragic car accident left Mtunzini father Mandlenkosi ‘Hlunguhlungu’ Mhlongo (52) with a disfigured face, crushed skull and dislocated upper limbs, he is using his misfortune to encourage others.
Hailing from the dusty roads of KwaSbhamu Reserve in Mtunzini, Mandlenkosi jokingly says he was a born ladies’ man who turned heads and charmed every girl.
‘That was the reason for me being married four times.
‘But that day my life changed, not for the worst, but for the better,’
While travelling to his home in 2003, his car was hit by a truck at the KwaDlangezwa intersection and his body was dragged along the rough road.
His scalp and skin were peeled off and he suffered major injuries which left him totally unrecognisable.
‘After waking up in hospital and not recognising myself in the mirror, I had to make a decision
- hate myself or accept God’s plan.
‘When I came out of hospital, many people ran away and others spread the rumour that I was dead. Some mocked me, but surviving the accident gave me a second chance at life,’
‘I lost my looks but my brain still worked. I decided then not to let the situation put me down,’ he said.
Since then, Mandlenkosi has worked hard towards rebuilding his life and ensuring he continued to be a productive member of his community.
Not only does he own his own small transport business which helps school children in the area, but he also wants to one day own a farm which will supply his community with food..
‘I couldn’t sit around doing nothing at home, and I hate it when people feel sorry for me. I know when I put my mind to it, I can make things happen. When the accident happened, God made sure my brain was untouched and that I will never be put to waste,’ said Mandlenkosi.
Wherever he goes, Mandlenkosi preaches about second chances and encourages youngsters to always see the positive in every situation.
‘I teach them to learn to accept any situation and understand everything that happens is part of
God’s grand design.
As long as you can still think and use your brain your life is not over,’ he said.
This brave father of 12 sons is not only an emerging entrepreneur, but uses his voice to spread love and cheer to others through music.
I had to make a decision - hate myself or accept God’s plan