The Kutlwano Social Organisation (Kuso) will host its fifth triennial conference on November 23 and 24 at the Springs Technical High School under the theme ‘United we stand, advancing a caring spirit’.

Kuso chairperson Dali Mofokeng said, “We are satisfied with what we have done in our community with the interventions we have made so far. However, the organisation has not realised its potential because it is presently punching below its weight, something the conference must address.

“We have not attracted young men and want to ensure they find comfort in joining Kuso as a catalyst for development and progress.”

The conference will allow Kuso to pause, reflect on its journey and align that with its vision. The organisation has been at the centre of development and initiating campaigns like dress-a-learner, the winter warmers – where the elderly got blankets and food parcels – helping the physically challenged regain their dignity by accessing ablution facilities and supporting young people in sports.

The two-day conference will deliberate on several issues affecting the community and craft resolutions to guide it on how best to tackle the community’s challenges in general.

It will also develop strategies to attract young men to swell the ranks so Kuso can remain relevant and be at the forefront of community development and empowerment.

Kuso communications head Pule Malefane commented, “This conference should emerge with a plan of action that will see Kuso live up to its motto of ‘We Care’ and become a uniting force for all community-based organisations.

“We should discard the myth that we compete with other NGOs and burial societies and work together with all for the benefit of the communities.

“We need to translate our numbers into economic strength to support one another and penetrate the economic realm of financial services and retail.

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“It is high time we discard the character of being perpetual consumers of goods and services and become serious economic role players for the benefit of our membership and the community at large.”

The conference will see some prominent community builders, including Bongani Luvalo, the founder of the Cool Dads Foundation.

Luvalo will share his perspective on Kuso’s role in mentoring and coaching young males to become responsible citizens.

Bongani Ngomane, the head of department at the Gauteng Social Development Department, will focus on NGOs contributing to bettering the lives of people and mobilising men into active campaigns meant to fight femicide and the abuse of women and children.

For more information, contact Matshele Motlhabane on 083 525 9702 or www.kutlwano.org

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