Nombulelo, “Bule,” has been a Cook at Thanda since she graduated high school in 2015 because it was important she stepped up for her family who she has supported since. At a young age, her mother suffered a chronic injury that has kept her from being able to work. Bule said, “even in school I would fetch water, carry sand, or clean houses to make money for my family. It was hard, but we managed.”

When we asked her what she is most proud of in life she responded happily, “to work at Thanda as a Cook. It’s not just a job, but I am proud of the work that I do because I am helping the children and people of this community. The parents meet me on the road and tell me how thankful they are that I cook for the children. Sometimes they greet me and ask what I will be cooking today for the children.”

It is evident the five women who cook at Thanda truly love working together as a team. Each day, they serve over 800 meals to children, youth, and adults. The meals are balanced with grains and proteins, always including a vegetables or two from the Thanda farms.

Nombulelo has a son who is in grade R and in Thanda After-school Programme. She believes Thanda is making a big difference in the community and that, “it is very special because we are helping so many people in this community. We are helping not only children, but older people too, like me, with job creation.”

To help people be the disrupters of challenges in their own lives, donate to Thanda this holiday season. Visit: www.thanda.org/donate-to-disrupt/

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