041Wine columnist Lelethu Zondanie takes a thoughtful sip on community, legacy, and inspiration with today’s column.
It was a perfect Sunday in Port Elizabeth, and the Summerstrand strip was bustling with energy. We were graciously invited to the Lindelwa Foundation’s Gqeberha MindShift Talk at the tranquil Happy Valley for a birthday picnic with one of Africa’s biggest knitwear designers and innovator of the Xhosa, Laduma Ngxokolo founder of Maxhosa. This gathering brought together a distinguished group of community leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers—individuals whose impact reverberates throughout society.
The event centered around the journeys of success, the power of networking, social entrepreneurship, mentorship, and so much more. It was a celebration of visionaries who are shaping the future.
We were honored to be in the presence of remarkable leaders and thinkers, and privileged to hear words of wisdom from luminaries such as Thembalethu King, Thabiso Sankoloba, a trailblazing community leader, Chwayita Xwayi (affectionately known as uBabes Wamachankura), Songezo Masiso, the iconic Mbukwashe Zwide—renowned for her vintage wardrobe—and the inspiring Motse Mfuleni. Our guest of honor, Laduma Ngxokolo, also graced us with his presence, sharing his invaluable insights.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to attend such a meaningful and thought-provoking event. The discussions we engaged in were not only vital for the development of our communities, but also deeply revitalizing. It was empowering to listen to individuals who have triumphed over adversity, emerging victorious on the other side of struggle. Above all, we were reminded to be masters of our craft—constantly evolving for the sake of personal growth and the greater good of those around us.
The Lindelwa Foundation was born out of a deep love and reverence for Lindelwa Ngxokolo, a remarkable woman whose legacy continues to shape and inspire. As the mother of Laduma Ngxokolo, Lindelwa’s life was a testament to resilience, compassion, and an unshakable belief in the power of education.
The foundation’s mission is simple yet profound: to empower young minds by investing in their education and skills, igniting a ripple effect that will bring positive change to the community. By nurturing the potential of the next generation, the foundation strives to honor Lindelwa’s unwavering commitment to both education and community development.
Naming the foundation in her honor is our tribute to the extraordinary life she led—a life dedicated to lifting others and leaving a lasting mark on those she touched. Her legacy calls us to continue the work she started, and to do so with love, dedication, and the firm belief that through education, we can transform lives and create a better future for all.
To know more about the Lindelwa Foundation: https://www.lindelwafoundation.org
Choosing to surround myself with individuals who embody this mindset feels like I’m intentionally setting the tone for the woman and leader I aspire to become. It’s a constant reminder of the power of intentionality and the importance of the energy we choose to invite into our lives.
I encourage each of you to take a moment to reflect on the kind of impact you wish to make in your own community. Consider the ways in which you can contribute, inspire, and create change—big or small. The world needs each of us to show up with purpose and passion, and I have no doubt that when we align ourselves with the right people and vision, we can achieve remarkable things.
Cheers!
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