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Young people from Nikhwe Location in Bizana have come together to support 60-year-old Mqondisi “Mountain” Sophazi after learning about his difficult living conditions. His story, shared online, showed the old and crumbling structure he has been staying in for years. The images moved local youth to act.
One of the volunteers, Masande Mazinyo, said the situation touched her deeply when she first visited the site. “When I arrived and saw how he was living, it broke my heart,” she said. Masande explained that many of them are unemployed, yet they felt they could still make a difference. They began moulding mud bricks and clearing the site in hopes of building a stronger shelter for Sophazi.
She appealed for community support. “We are asking anyone who can assist to please help with building materials and food. We start early in the morning and finish late. But most importantly, we need building materials so this house can stand,” she said.
Another volunteer, Anele Nogoji, said their shared goal is to ensure Sophazi has a safe and dignified home before Christmas. “We want him to enjoy Christmas in a proper, fully furnished house. That is what keeps us pushing,” he said.
Sophazi said he is overwhelmed by the kindness shown to him. He has lived alone in Nikhwe for many years after most of his relatives moved to Johannesburg. “I was born here, and I have been alone for a long time,” he said. “May God bless all these young people for helping me. They are restoring my dignity.”
The youth have vowed to continue working until the house is complete and have encouraged residents, businesses, and donors to join the effort.
