UJ graduates initiate an NPO to help the needy
Isiphosethu Foundation pleads with the locals to help them reach out to the most vulnerable individuals. The organisation asks for individual, groups, companies and private sponsors to help them with donations.
Typically, many university students split ways after completing their studies. However, five University of Johannesburg (UJ) graduates spotted an opportunity and collaborated to impact people’s lives.
Rorisang Rapiletsa, Nongcebo Mazibuko, Asanda Cebekhulu, Bandile and Lethokuhle Mathebula met in 2020 to further their studies in desired qualifications in the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) in UJ and started an NPO called Isiphosethu Foundation.
According to the founders, Isiphosethu is an isiZulu term that in English means ‘our gift’. The name was heavily influenced by a strong desire to give back to the areas in which they operate.
The Covid-19 lockdown in South Africa influenced the organisation’s formation, as numerous social inequities were highlighted during that time, with those at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder being disproportionately affected, particularly young people.
Chairperson of the organisation Bandile Mathebula, said that their mission and vision were always clear which was to serve and restore hope to all disadvantaged young people.
This ensures a bright future while also making the future more beneficial to young people who have lost hope by providing them with the skills and opportunities they need to adapt to the ever-changing technological world.
“At first we strictly contributed from our bursary allowances to make the mission of the organisation come true. We bought food and clothes with our equally contributed funds, and donated them to the less advantaged in our communities to ease the pressure on them,” Bandile said.
The founders reside in different parts of Johannesburg south and Alberton and help locals from the province to make it in the national context as poverty affects everyone in South Africa.
The entity helps beyond measures of groceries and other essential items. They help tutor matric students to help them get good results.
The members have grown to thirty since its initial launch.
Organisation’s wow moments
As the organisation was launched by young students, they reflected on some of their wow moments since establishing Isiphosethu Foundation.
They told the Alberton Record that one of the moments that took their breath away was seeing the entity being officially launched with all relevant departments to operate as an NPO.
“The day was filled with lots of joy because we were just students who were young with this big vision. However, what always brings joy to our hearts is knowing that we have put a smile on someone’s face effortlessly by providing them with what seemed impossible,” said Bandil. They have also partnered with Bobby Motaung, to help those in need and also have adopted an orphanage NPO.
Challenges faced by Isiphosethu
The biggest challenges faced by this foundation are support and sponsorship.
Bandile said that they try to organise events that will bring them money to expand their services to the locals but it is not always enough.
“We host a hiking tour every now and then to raise funds but it is insufficient,” he said.
Isiphosethu’s appeal to the community
The organisation asks the community to support them with non-perishable food, unused clothes and shoes. For monetary donations, call 082 545 0957 or email info@isiphosethufoundation.org.za
You can also visit their website www.isiphosethufoundation.org.za
