Thembisa organisation empower the disabled through recycling

The Tembisa Self-Help Association of the Disabled (T-SHAD) is a haven for people with disabilities, providing them with a space to live freely and access opportunities for personal growth.

While the organisation supports individuals with various disabilities, it accommodates a significant number of people with autism.

T-SHAD identifies gaps in the community and strives to bridge them by promoting inclusivity, supporting education and upskilling individuals to help them achieve financial independence through proper training.

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The centre has introduced many developmental activities, including agriculture, recycling, farming and panel beating.

In addition, they run a social development club comprising volunteers dedicated to assisting the centre’s residents.

Caring for 140 people daily, T-SHAD provides breakfast and lunch to those participating in its programmes.

The facility also boasts a garden with various fruits and vegetables, which are used in the kitchen or sold to the community.

Furthermore, the organisation operates a specialised workshop catering to wheelchair users by providing and repairing wheelchairs.

This initiative ensures those reliant on wheelchairs receive the support they need for mobility and independence.

Founder Gezani Ndlovu is constantly developing new ideas to create employment opportunities in the community.

“To complete the projects we have been working on, we still require funding. We also aim to provide training for people with special needs, helping them acquire skills to support themselves.

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“Additionally, we hope to establish a community clinic to serve residents far from healthcare facilities. We believe having a clinic nearby will make accessing healthcare services easier.

“We also want to expand our recycling initiatives to generate revenue that can pay salaries because we operate independently.”

While T-SHAD prioritises people with disabilities, it is also engaged in various community-driven projects designed to generate income and improve the quality of life in Thembisa.

The organisation is committed to enhancing health measures in the community, ensuring residents have access to essential services and proper nutrition.

Moreover, T-SHAD actively participates in sports activities, achieving notable success last year and aiming for even greater accomplishments in the future.

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T-SHAD is more than just a facility; it is a place where people feel safe, supported and at home.

Ndlovu and his team work tirelessly to create opportunities for the community, and their efforts are yielding remarkable results.

Beyond their daily operations, they play a crucial role in giving back by donating goods and essentials to those in need.

Despite limited resources, they continue to create jobs, uplift disabled people and support the broader community.