Thokozile Mnguni
Acts of kindness can have a lasting impact, especially when rooted in stories of struggle, resilience and hope.
They often stay long after the moment has passed, shaped by the people met and the conditions they live in.
The Collen Mashawana Foundation (CMF), led by Dr Collen Mashawana, visited the Sonskynhoekie Informal Settlement north of Pretoria, where 141 families live, most of whom are unemployed and rely on donations for survival.
During the visit, CMF distributed mattresses, blankets, clothing, food parcels and toys for children. After engaging with residents and seeing their living conditions, Dr Mashawana also pledged to provide two homes for vulnerable families, along with solar panels to improve access to electricity.
Dr Collen Mashawana reflected on the visit, describing the experience in deeply personal terms.
“Spending time in Sonskynhoekie and hearing directly from families was both humbling and deeply emotional.”
He said the foundation’s intervention provided immediate relief, but the interaction with residents carried greater meaning.
“We were able to bring mattresses, blankets, clothing, food parcels and toys for the children. Beyond that, the most important part was listening to people and understanding their circumstances first-hand,” he said.
Dr Mashawana said the conditions he witnessed strengthened his resolve to act further.
“I have committed to assisting two families with homes and to providing solar energy solutions to help improve daily living conditions. Every South African deserves dignity, hope and a fair chance at a better life.”
He added that continued support for vulnerable communities remains central to the foundation’s mission.
CMF says its work will continue to focus on practical, sustainable interventions aimed at improving lives in underserved communities.