LIMPOPO – A 24-year-old man from Dzumeri, under the leadership of Hosi Mabunda, is making a powerful impact in Limpopo communities through her heartfelt mission to help those in need.

Ntokoto Mathebula, founder of the Ntokoto Foundation, has become a beacon of hope for hundreds of children and families, thanks to his tireless work in donating food parcels, school uniforms, sanitary pads, and certificates to encourage academic achievement.

His journey began in 2020 when he launched the Vito Ra Mandlakhazi Campaign, a grassroots initiative she co-founded with community partner Talent Mulondzo from Mbhedle village.

The campaign focused on giving to the most vulnerable, visiting various churches across the province, including in Malamulele, where they donated school essentials and sanitary items to disadvantaged children.

One of their major milestones included helping over 206 children in Mahonisi village with celebration packages and certificates to mark important milestones in their school journey.

“We did not do it alone,” Mathebula said. “We were supported by Tivanani Funeral Services, who helped us transport and deliver donations across villages.”

In 2022, the young leader rebranded his campaign into a registered non-profit organisation, now known as the Ntokoto Foundation. The foundation has since grown its vision, including the empowerment of women through community sporting events, especially soccer tournaments hosted in places like Matsotsosela in partnership with Tirhani Security Services.

Ntokoto also received significant backing from Mhlangaveza Family Assurance, which enabled him to expand his outreach and host four soccer tournaments in various communities, aimed at inspiring the youth and promoting unity. Through these partnerships, he donated Gr 7 and Gr 12 certificates to learners at Dzumeri and Nyumbani schools, further encouraging educational success.

His dedication has taken him across provinces, including Bloemfontein, where he underwent training in nonprofit management and development. He has also been invited for interviews on local radio stations, raising awareness of his work and calling others to action.

In a major highlight of his journey, Mathebula was selected to participate in a provincial competition involving 367 nonprofit organisations from Limpopo and Johannesburg, where he proudly secured second place.

Throughout his mission, he continues to credit those who supported him, especially Mhlangaveza Family Assurance, her mentors, and school leaders like the principal of Dzumeri Primary School, who played a crucial role in encouraging him during difficult times.

“I have seen what faith, passion and persistence can do,” he said. “We may come from a small place, but with unity and vision, we can create powerful change.”

From church visits to rural outreaches, radio interviews to sports events, Ntokoto Mathebula’s story is one of resilience, generosity, and unwavering commitment to giving back.