For the month of July, Lowvelders nominated Themba Nkosinathi Shabalala as the #LocalHero.

Shabalala, affectionately known to the community as Putju, was nominated for making a difference in the communities around the Lowveld through empowering the youth.

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He always aims to go above and beyond to assist those in need and that his dedication knows no bounds. Shabalala has been providing support, knowledge and resources necessary for these communities to have an improved quality of life.

He has chaired and hosted multiple events in aid of young people such as talent shows, sporting tournaments and the Top 6 Netball Competition. He has donated food parcels and hygiene school products during these trying times in which many locals have lost their income.

“I started this venture on June 4, 2018. This wonderful story began when I saw the need to host these programmes to help the youth to navigate adolescence in healthy ways and to prepare them for their future by fostering their positive development,” said Shabalala.

READ: Nominate a #LowveldHero

Do you know of a local hero who deserves more credit? Nominate him or her to be named the Lowvelder Hero of the Month brought to you by West Pack Lifestyle – aka #LowveldHero.The winner of this monthly competition will win a R1 000 West Pack Lifestyle voucher and a chance to be interviewed and photographed to appear in the newspaper. Scan the QR code or visit Facebook/lowvelder. co.za to nominate your #LowveldHero.