Thuma Hope Foundation is expanding its community work beyond immediate relief, placing skills development, entrepreneurship, and future opportunities at the centre of its growing outreach through the Thuma Empower initiative.

The Midrand-based foundation has spent recent months supporting vulnerable children and families through projects such as its Blankets of Blessings Winter Outreach and Bedtime Blessings-Mandela Day Pyjama Drive.

Read more: Ubuntu Rabie Ridge Foundation extends helping hand to the elderly

While these initiatives provide essential winter items and meals, the organisation stated that lasting change requires helping young people prepare for life beyond school.

Through Thuma Empower, the foundation aims to introduce children and young people in orphanages and underprivileged communities to practical skills such as baking, photography, and other entrepreneurial disciplines.

The initiative is designed to help young people discover their talents, build confidence and develop skills that could eventually lead to employment or income-generating opportunities. It is particularly focused on young people who may not have the financial means to attend university, college, or other tertiary institutions after completing high school.

The foundation’s co-founder Nehemiah Ragovan said the organisation believes service should help people discover their purpose while creating meaningful opportunities for those in need. “I love the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus by helping those in need,” said Ragovan.

Also read: Truth and Hope Foundation sets sights on producing Gauteng’s next football and tennis stars

The foundation’s recent outreach programmes have provided a practical demonstration of that commitment.

During the Blankets of Blessings Winter Outreach, volunteers distributed 150 winter care packs to residents of an informal settlement in Midrand. Each pack contained a blanket, beanie, socks, a warm meal, a beverage, and toys for children.

The Bedtime Blessings-Mandela Day Pyjama Drive extended the work to children living in orphanages in Midrand and Buccleuch. Children received winter pyjamas, blankets, beanies, gloves, scarves and KFC meals, while volunteers spent time with them to create moments of encouragement and connection.

However, the foundation’s vision is to ensure support does not end when donations are handed over.

Founder Veronica Ragovan calls on businesses, corporates, and individuals to support the longer-term vision through sponsorships, bursaries, mentorship, skills training, and educational opportunities.

Also read: Tranquillity Home Rehabilitation Clinic marks blossom day with message of hope and recovery

“We want to encourage corporates and individuals to partner with Thuma Hope Foundation in creating lasting change through sustained support, meaningful engagement and initiatives that continue to make a difference long after the initial outreach,” she said.

International volunteer Devonna Reese of Mission Minded Mission Focused in North Carolina, USA, also joined the foundation during its outreach, while other volunteers described the experience as a reminder of the challenges facing vulnerable communities.

Those interested in donating, volunteering, partnering with the foundation, or supporting the Thuma Empower initiative can contact 066 083 1722 or email info@thumahopefoundation.co.za

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!