GEORGE NEWS - In one of the toughest corners of Thembalethu, where opportunities are scarce and hardship is part of daily life, Nokonwaba Konki is creating something extraordinary.

And she's doing it with little more than heart, grit and a deep love of children.

From what was once a humble spaza shop in Zone 9, Konki has built Kusasalethu Crèche, a safe haven where little ones are not only protected, but nourished, loved and taught. 

With the help of her small but committed team, she ensures every child in her care is kept warm, clean, stimulated and fed - often their only solid meal for the day.

"In this community, crèches like Nokonwaba's are not just important, they're essential," says Sunyata Choyce, founder of the Canada-based Project Colors. 

"Even if there are spaces at municipal crèches, the fees and distance make them unreachable for many parents."

Without access to reliable childcare, children often end up in the care of older siblings or cousins, or worse, left to wander the streets. That's what makes places like Kusasalethu so vital.

Here, children are not only safe while their parents work, but they are also gently prepared for school with early learning in letters, numbers and life skills. 

"I wish we could clone Nokonwaba!" says Choyce, who supports Kusasalethu with donations of nutritious e'Pap.

"She does it all - the teaching, the feeding, the nurturing - and still finds space in her heart for children with special needs, who are often left behind by the system. All of this in an area where just getting to her front door is a challenge."

But for Konki, it's about more than just keeping the children busy.

When resources allow, she organises day trips, adventures that open up whole new worlds for her young charges. Whether it's a walk on the beach or an educational outing to the Outeniqua Transport Museum, these are moments the children will never forget.

Looking ahead, Konki dreams of building a second facility. One dedicated to children with learning difficulties. It's an ambitious plan, but if anyone can make it happen, it's her.

Anyone interested in supporting or sponsoring this initiative is welcome to send an email to info@projectcolors.com.

‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’