LIMPOPO – In a world where countless voices cry out for help, Emelda Ralph (29) from Lulekani hears them louder than most, not as noise, but as a divine calling.

Known affectionately as the ‘Mother of the Nation’, Ralph’s journey of giving began in her teenage years, inspired by what she believes to be the guidance of the Holy Spirit. To date, her work touches lives in ways that many only dream of, from feeding orphans to building homes and empowering families.

Ralph blessed more than 30 families with Christmas hampers during the month of December last year, and she is currently giving out the remaining food hampers to identified destitute families.

She practices as a private social worker and is an industrial psychologist.

“I would like to believe that my journey of giving was inspired by the Holy Spirit hence I do not see it as passion but a calling. Many events happened in my life that I believe were a confirmation or rather channelling me to the ministry of giving,” Ralph explained.

The ‘Mother of the Nation’ added that her journey began at 15 years old when she started collecting donated clothes for the less fortunate.

By the time she was 18, she had joined Rotary, one of the largest charity foundations.

When she was at university, she expanded her efforts, by launching campaigns to give back to communities and forming personal connections with the homeless.

“I had a family on the streets. While others were afraid of them, I felt at home and at peace. That is how I became known as the ‘Mother of the Nation.’ From then until now, I have seen God use me as a vessel to touch lives,” she said.

Ralph stated that she has worked with numerous companies and organisations to bring hope and change to people in need over the years.

Her efforts include building homes, providing food and necessities to families, and ensuring that children, especially orphans, have access to education through her Adopt a School Child campaign. Though much of her work remains behind the scenes, its impact is undeniable.

She also mentioned that one of her most visible projects is her support for a school for disabled children from destitute families. However, her efforts extend beyond children.

The 29-year-old explained that she saves money every year to sustain her initiative. “I save up money every year. I also have anonymous donors who created an account and contribute between R50 and R200 every month to help with food hampers,” she said.

Despite her unwavering commitment, the weight of her mission can sometimes feel overwhelming.

“I break down now and then, it helps a lot. Most importantly, I take it back to God. I go into the secret place and off-load my burdens onto Him. He always makes a way. Tough times are only temporary,” said Ralph.

“I am called into the ministry of giving. I cannot run away from it. God has entrusted me with the lives of others, and in good and bad times, I will soldier on,” she continued.

Through her work, Ralph has gained profound insights about life, gratitude, and contentment.

“This journey has taught me to be content, content with who I am, where I am and what I have. It has helped me to cultivate a heart of gratitude. We are an ungrateful generation. We are so blessed and there is so much God does for us, but we do not see it because we are blinded by wanting more,” she concluded.

Anyone who wishes to contribute to Ralph’s initiative may contact her at 081 097 0412.