Social media influencer Mandisi Tshingana has raised approximately R40,000 in just six hours to help a 20-year-old man from Ngqamakhwe in the Eastern Cape who had lost hope of attending an initiation school due to financial difficulties.
The young man, identified as Likho Zondi, was brought to public attention after an appeal shared on social media highlighted the challenges he was facing and his disappointment at the possibility of missing out on the traditional initiation experience.
According to the appeal, Zondi’s mother lives in Cape Town and is struggling financially, while he is being raised by his grandmother, who is also facing difficulties.
The appeal described how the young man became emotional after being informed that assistance could be coming his way.
After learning about his circumstances, Tshingana mobilised his followers to contribute towards helping Zondi. Within approximately six hours, donations had reportedly reached R40,000.
The funds are intended to assist with the expenses associated with Umgidi Wephondo, a traditional Xhosa celebration associated with the return of young men after undergoing initiation.
Expressing his gratitude following the overwhelming support, Zondi said he had never expected such assistance and had already given up hope of attending initiation school.
“I don’t even know what to say. I did not expect such help. I never thought I’d be in this position today. I had given up the hope of going to initiation school and believed I’d die like this. I’m grateful to everyone who assisted, especially Mandisi Tshingana,” he said.
The fundraising effort has drawn attention to Zondi’s circumstances and the support mobilised by social media users to help him participate in an important cultural milestone.
