Alexandra’s respected humanitarian, Linda Twala, was celebrated by Afrika Tikkun with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and the launch of the Twala Ama-Afrika Heritage Project at Phuthaditjhaba Centre.

The event, held on Friday, was designed to archive and celebrate Twala’s decades of service. Twala, often referred to as the ‘Father of Alexandra’, has served the community since 1967, feeding the elderly, exposing youth to opportunities, and advocating for dignity. The Twala Ama-Afrika project is intended to preserve his legacy and inspire future generations.

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The launch event featured tributes from community members whose lives Twala transformed. Lawrence Ruele, of the Alexandra Youth Swim Academy, recalled his journey from working at a carwash to leading youth programmes because of Twala’s efforts. “I am one of the products of what it is when people care, and nurture, and build you.”

Although the event was intended to honour Twala for the work he has already done, it also served as a platform to highlight his goals and visions.

During his presentation at the centre, Ruele shared Twala’s goal of taking 50 children to America for educational exposure, noting that, with a single child, Katlego Mokalake, already having visited Washington DC this year, the goal of taking 49 more is achievable.

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Additionally, Skhumbuzo Mnculwane, who also works at the centre, spoke about Twala’s passion for youth development, adding that there are two specific programmes that Twala wants to see being implemented. The first programme aims to steer young people away from harmful choices and toward careers like aviation. “We need a campaign to educate young people about the dangers of what they are doing. There is need for us to make sure that we also give those young people an opportunity to do something positive, teaching them about things like becoming pilots.”

He also highlighted Twala’s wish for a ‘Meals on Wheels’ programme, which delivers food to elderly residents who are unable to reach the centre.

Twala expressed gratitude for the recognition of his work. “I am happy that there are people who recognise the work that I do. I have been doing his type of work since 1967, and up until now I am still doing it.”

He added that with the power God vested in him to take children overseas to get the best education, he is sure that the centre will produce future leaders.

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