A 16-year-old from Promosa is pursuing solutions instead of ignoring problems through his non-profit organisation, Together We Can.

Lilitha Maqungo, who is currently a Grade 10 learner at Potchefstroom Secondary School, has a heart for community service. He is passionate about empowering young people and giving back to underprivileged communities.

The main aim of Together We Can is to host quarterly community events where people can receive donated clothing while enjoying fellowship, food and a variety of fun activities.

“I started Together We Can to be a beacon of hope and a source of encouragement to children from disadvantaged backgrounds. It does not matter where you come from. Your future is shaped by the actions you take today. Those actions will determine who you become.”

Together We Can was founded in 2022 when Lilitha was in Grade 7 at Promosa Primary School.

“My mom came back from church one Wednesday and saw children scavenging for clothes at a dumpsite. She told me about it and it really touched me. It left me asking why these children had to live like that.”

Determined to make a difference, Lilitha approached his mathematics teacher for advice.

“At first, my maths teacher was surprised that a 12-year-old could come up with such an idea, but he really helped me start a small charity.”

In June 2024, Together We Can was officially registered as a non-profit organisation.

Although the organisation initially focused on helping children, its focus has since expanded to supporting underprivileged families, as many of the donated clothes are adult sizes.

“We want to host events as regularly as possible and create a fun day for everyone. This includes face painting for children, providing food and even offering free haircuts through one of our volunteers.”

If there is one question Lilitha hopes people will ask themselves, it is:

“What can I contribute to society, and how can I make my community a better place?”