Living in an informal settlement is a harsh reality, especially for children. They are often exposed to dangers, from unsafe streets to substance abuse in the community, but one man, Zola Kupa, refused to accept this as the norm.

Driven by his love for children and a desire to be the father he never had, Kupa transformed a neglected building at Clay Oven informal settlement in Paulshof into a place of safety, learning, and hope.

When he first arrived, the building that would become New Beginnings Daycare and Preschool was abandoned and used as a dumping site. “I saw children playing in dangerous areas, exposed to things they should never see.”

Read more: Clay Oven informal settlement waste site finally gets government attention

Motivated by his own childhood experiences and lessons from his grandmother about self-reliance and resilience, he rallied a few community members, cleaned the space, and officially opened the creche in May 2023.

Kupa’s passion for children is evident in every detail of the creche. He remembers one little boy who was constantly getting into trouble, wandering dangerously near the streets. “After a few weeks, he started coming in excited to learn, and now he’s one of the brightest kids in literacy activities.”

He gives each child attentive care, noticing their moods, celebrating their small victories, and gently guiding them when they struggle.

The creche operates from 06:30 to 17:00, Monday to Friday, allowing working parents to leave their children in a safe, structured environment. Families contribute a small monthly fee, which goes toward meals and learning materials. Parents have welcomed the initiative, relieved that their children are safe, fed, and engaged.

He said at New Beginnings, children learn literacy, numeracy, manners, sharing, teamwork, and independence. Kupa said self-reliance is an important part of his teachings.

“I didn’t grow up with my father. He worked and sent money, but he wasn’t physically present. I wanted to be the father I never had, not just for my own son, but for every child I can reach.”

Also read: Mysterious death and bizarre CCTV footage shake Clay Oven informal settlement

He draws on nearly a decade of teaching experience, and his family tradition of education and philanthropy.

Every day, he watches children discover new skills, from counting their first numbers to learning to write their names, but for him, the most rewarding moments are simple: A child running up to him with a hug, a shy smile after a successful first attempt at reading, or the quiet satisfaction of seeing a child gain confidence.

“Every morning, when I open the door and see those bright eyes looking up at me, eager and smiling, it fills me with joy. I carry that image with me, even when I go to sleep. Nothing money can buy compares to that feeling. It’s priceless.”

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates