By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – Jacob Mokoena, who has been unable to walk since childhood, was overcome with emotion as he received a brand-new wheelchair during a Mandela Day celebration held at Maluti TVET College’s Bonamelo Campus.
“I am so happy to receive a new wheelchair. Words truly escape me,” he said, visibly moved.The wheelchair was donated by Nurturing Seeds, a newly established non-profit organisation launched by and for the differently abled in Maluti-a-Phofung. The group aims to advocate for people living with disabilities and make a tangible difference in their lives.
“We face many challenges as the differently abled community, and we want to advocate for ourselves and support others like us,” said Pule Malinga from Bluegumbosch, a wheelchair user and representative of the organisation.
“Today, we are proud to donate two wheelchairs—one to a young man and another to an elderly woman—who truly need this act of kindness.”
Founder and organiser Dineo Matee, who is also differently abled, said Nurturing Seeds was born from a desire to amplify the voices of people living with disabilities.
“It’s not easy living with a disability in this community, but we want to be a source of hope and empowerment. Our aim is to speak for those who often go unheard,” she said.
The organisation officially launched its operations at the event, using the significance of Mandela Day, 18 July to underscore their mission of inclusion and service.
The celebration was a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela and a call to ensure that no community is left behind.
