I’m Sibusiso “Raah” Msimango and I am deeply passionate about building a better future for my community. I grew up in the rural community of Mtwalume where Thanda operates, attended the local schools, and worked for Thanda since our start in 2008. My career with Thanda began as a Computer Teacher, and I am now the Senior Programmes Manager and oversee day-to-day operation of all our programmes as well as the community centre. For me, a typical day at Thanda could be anything from working in an office all day monitoring the progress of various programmes, or getting hands-on building and farming out at sites, or in Durban creating partnerships and collecting necessary support materials. When I’m at my desk all day, I’m grateful for Ergonomicsdirect’s laptop stand and back support products that they donated to us in support of our work. It really helps me get through those difficult and long days!

My biggest obstacle in life was being born in a family who struggled daily to survive. So, as a young kid I didn’t ask my parents for things because I knew they couldn’t get it. To change mine and my family’s life, I intensely focused on my studies and my humility in order to create a good reputation in the community. By doing that I hoped someday it would open doors and eventually in 2008 with Thanda, it did. A life-changing moment was visiting the United Kingdom in 2016. Not only was it my first time leaving South Africa, but I was able to represent Thanda in a Thanda20 fundraising walk and raising funds for my community was priceless to me. I am incredibly proud and honoured to be a part of the Thanda team and create so many positive changes in my own community every day.