In a heartwarming display of compassion and community spirit, “Together We Can”, a remarkable Non-Profit Organization (NPO), held its final event of the year, providing support to 90 community members ranging from ages six to 83. The organization, which has been making a significant impact in Potchefstroom for the past two years, was founded by 12-year-old Lilitha Gqwala.

His mission to help less fortunate children in his community has turned into a thriving initiative, providing clothing, hot meals, and support to those in need. The inspiring journey of the organisation began when Lilitha, then just 10 years old, noticed that some of his classmates were attending school in torn clothes and worn-out shoes. Moved by their struggles, Lilitha decided to take action. Despite his tender age, he began collecting donations to provide school shoes and uniforms for his peers. His selfless acts of kindness sparked a movement that continues to grow and inspire the community today. However, the road was not without challenges. The NPO Act restricts minors from heading organizations, but Lilitha’s determination to make a difference led him to a solution.

He opened the organization under the name of his mother, ensuring that Together We Can could continue to serve the community while respecting legal regulations. Over the past two years, the NPO has successfully distributed new and secondhand clothing to more than 300 children in need. In addition to providing essential clothing, the organisation has also provided hot meals during its events, fostering a sense of community and offering both physical and emotional nourishment to the recipients. At the final event of 2024, held on 28 November, Lilitha and his team went above and beyond, assisting 90 individuals from various walks of life.

In a touching gesture, 17 young boys also received free haircuts from a local barber, further enhancing the sense of dignity and care that Together We Can strives to instill in its beneficiaries. In his speech at the event, Lilitha expressed his heartfelt gratitude to those who have supported the cause throughout the year. “I want to thank Mrs. Davis, the MMC of Local Economic Development, and her assistant Mrs. Beukes for their continued support. A big thank you also goes to members of my congregation. Your generosity has made all of this possible, and we couldn’t have done it without you.”