Breaking the cycle of poverty: How the Mbulelo Bara Foundation aims to transform young lives

South Africa’s youth face increasing social and economic pressures, with many boys turning to drugs, crime, and self-harm, said Mbulelo Bara, founder of the newly established Mbulelo Bara Foundation.

Mr Bara said these challenges, while complex, are often rooted in poverty and a lack of support at home. The foundation aims to address these issues by offering young men guidance, mentorship, and tools to break the cycle of hardship.

He said many families are unable to provide the support children need to succeed, and this leaves young people vulnerable. The foundation has been created to offer alternatives and long-term support rather than quick fixes.

He said he is aware that the problems faced by boys in disadvantaged communities will not be solved overnight, but he remains committed to making a difference. He said he and his team are focused on building a platform that can positively impact the lives of young men, offering them direction and purpose.

“It was not an easy decision to establish my own foundation. But it has always been my dream to interact with young people, boys in particular. I grew up in the township too, so I know the challenges faced by young people. When you look at these places, it looks like there is no hope for the young people. They are addicted to drugs, crime, and depressed," he said.

He said it was not their fault and can be attributed to "a bad situation at home."

"It was this and other reasons that led me to establish the foundation," he said.

Mr Bara said it has never been easy to grow up as a boy. He said being a boy comes with significant responsibility and the pressure to present yourself well, not only to impress girls, but also to gain acceptance from peers and the wider community. He said many boys struggle to cope with these pressures and expectations.

“This foundation wants to tackle such pressures for them. This is not a short-term solution. There are various initiatives that we will embark on. The aim is to upskill, not to give them something that will not last. We will talk to institutions of learning so that those who are still willing to go back to school can go. The big businesses provide jobs too. The foundation is about making a real difference in people's lives and showing them that effective, ethical leadership can bring about change,” he said.

He said the foundation is committed to building and empowering communities through youth development, stakeholder engagement, and meaningful dialogue.

Mr Bara said he was proud to offer young people in the country an opportunity to change their lives. He said it was time for men to stand up and help the youth become responsible citizens and future parents.

The foundation can be contacted at 079 749 8013 or by email at MbuleloBaraFoundation@gmail.com