Thinking of starting an NPO in 2026? Con Brio Cares founder shares what it really takes
Drawing from her own journey, Con Brio Cares co-founder Elindi van de Heever shares why she started her NPO, what she had to learn along the way, and the practical steps every aspiring founder should know before taking the leap.
Many people are inspired to start non-profit organisations after witnessing charities change lives in their communities.
The desire to give back, to restore dignity and to make a meaningful difference often comes naturally. But, for many aspiring founders, the biggest challenge is not passion; it is knowing where to start.
Elindi van den Heever, co-founder of Fourways-based Con Brio Care non-profit organisation, understands this journey well.
Read more: Con Brio Cares celebrates transformative 2025 with over 3,000 lives touched
Having volunteered and helped others from a young age, giving back was always part of who she was. But turning compassion into a formal organisation required careful thought, commitment and a clear understanding of governance.
“I have always helped in some shape or form. My friends and family were the ones who convinced me to start my own NPO so that I could oversee the governance and make sure that donations go where we promise them to go.”
For those considering starting an NPO, van den Heever’s first piece of advice is simple but crucial: get involved with existing organisations first.
“Running an NPO is not as simple as people might think. Before starting your own, you need to understand how organisations work, what challenges they face, and what resources are required.”
She warns that passion alone is not enough. There are financial, legal and administrative responsibilities that must be planned for from the beginning.
According to van den Heever, the process starts with registering a company before applying for NPO status with the Department of Social Development.
Once registered, compliance becomes an ongoing obligation. This includes submitting annual signed-off financial statements, paying licensing fees and submitting annual reports to the department.
For organisations that want to offer donors tax benefits through Section 18A, the requirements are even more demanding.
“This requires additional governance and applications to SARS. It means accountants and other professionals need to be involved, or you need the knowledge and time to manage it yourself.”
Also read: “Young Again” founder shares tips to stay confident and healthy this festive season
Despite these challenges, van den Heever says the journey has been deeply fulfilling. She admits she never expected Con Brio Cares to grow as quickly as it did or to reach so many people in such a short space of time.
“Having started my NPO has been incredibly rewarding. I am so grateful and thankful for every volunteer and donor who has supported us.”
For her, the true reward lies in the impact.
“Seeing the smiles and gratitude on the recipients’ faces is the biggest reward of all. We cannot help everyone, because there are so many in need. But knowing we have helped some fills my bucket.”
Her message to aspiring changemakers is to start with heart, but prepare with knowledge.
“Giving back can change lives, including your own, but building an organisation that lasts requires structure, accountability, and a willingness to learn.”
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
