Former councillor celebrates 50th birthday by giving back to the community
Gogo Mamfokeng May had few words for the birthday boy. The emotional grandma appealed to Mr Nqulwane not to stop respecting the seniors and blessed for many more returns for what he keeps doing for the seniors.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Former ward 89 councillor Monde Nqulwane who celebrated his birthday last Saturday sharing a joke with the seniors of his ward. Mr Nqulwane decided to invite more than 100 seniors to spend a day with him on his special day.
Image: Phiri Cawe
Monde Nqulwane, a former councillor from Site B in ward 89, celebrated his 50th birthday this year by giving back to his community.
He chose to dedicate his special day to the residents by buying gifts and hosting a lunch for them.
Mr Nqulwane had been contemplating how to surprise his community members, and the idea to entertain them with gifts and food proved to be a hit.
The event attracted around around 100 attendees, including many seniors who also brought small gifts to honour him. The day was filled with joy, and food was generously provided for all.
The guest of honour expressed his excitement at being surrounded by seniors on his special day. He said: “Inviting seniors was the best way I could celebrate. They are the ones who have given life to many, and they deserve our care and respect. I would not be here if I did not have parents. These are all my parents. I owe a lot to them. This is the best way to say thank you. While I was a councillor, they taught me a lot and were always there to support me. I am truly grateful to have them.”
In addition to the birthday celebration, Mr Nqulwane promised to continue his community support by providing school children with sanitary towels the following weekend. He understands the pressing need for these essential items, as he learned during his time as a councillor when schools highlighted this demand.
Mamfokeng May a senior citizen urged Mr Nqulwane to never forget the seniors in his plans.
She thanked him for consistently thinking of them, even after stepping down from his councillor role.
“This is not the first time you have given us gifts. When you were a councillor, we never went to bed hungry. You are our project, and not everyone thinks this way. You are chosen by God. Trust in the Lord, and you will be blessed.”
Another senior, Themba Mbakaza, encouraged Mr Nqulwane to consider running for councillor again, expressing concern that since his departure, there has been little support for seniors in ward 89.
He said: "You have been good to us since your leadership days. We promise to vote for you if you stand again. Thank you for your generosity and love for seniors; that is your greatest blessing.”
The day concluded with attendees enjoying lunch and traditional umqombothi, celebrating not just a birthday but a commitment to community and care.