By: Vuyolwethu Nzolongwane
Amidst a global pandemic, Mdantsane resident, Athenkosi Quku (26) registered his non-profit organisation in hopes of restoring the dignity of those who are less fortunate and those who have been forced by circumstances to live on the streets by offering a hot meal, shower and helping to take care of basic grooming needs.
Quku holds a B-Tech in Business Administration that he obtained from Walter Sisulu University. His experiences growing up awakened a need to help those who are not as fortunate to have a permanent roof over their heads or any guarantee of a meal.
“Growing up, I had a friend who went through a difficult phase in his life which eventually led to him being homeless, drug use and breaking the law. I told myself that there is something that has to be done to uplift those low confidences, enhance those skills and just give them a reason to carry on,” said Quku.
Together with 12 of his peers, Quku aims to influence change, one homeless person at a time.
“We are changing a lot of lives through this initiative as many of those who have been part of our initiative now feel loved and important. As a person, you could go to a job interview hungry but you would never go to an interview when you have not bathed because you would lose all your confidence,” said Quku.
Quku motivates young people to think outside the box and use either the skills that they have acquired through the various qualifications that they have or experiences that they have obtained in life to do something that will influence change in their lives or the lives of those around them. He encourages the youth to take the first step towards turning their ideas into a reality.
“You have nothing to lose, go out there and try your best. Young people should not just wait to be employed or even aspire to be employed. Young people have many creative ideas and they just need to get over their fears,”
Quku offers services to the homeless such as hot showers, first aid, counselling and clothing.
The initiative is self-funded and donations of any kind are welcome. To donate, contact Quku via email, Humanityandcare@gmail.com, call or send a WhatsApp message to 074 890 4201.