Nelson Mandela Build Handover: A new beginning for Nokwandisa’s family

Habitat for Humanity South Africa held the first Nelson Mandela house handover ceremony in Khayelitsha Site B, in partnership with Teleperformance, on the 14th of October 2024. The house was handed to Nokwandisa, a 58-year-old widowed mother of four—Nolonwabo, Noyiso, Siziphiwe, and Thobela. Nokwandisa has faced various challenges raising her children in a cramped space that lacked privacy and security. Despite these hardships, she remained determined to work towards a better future for her children. “When Kaya, our community leader, told me that I would receive a new home, I thought I was dreaming,” she shared with tears in her eyes. “This is a dream come true.” she adds. The new house, built with the support of Teleperformance, will provide her family with the stability and open space they long for. Teleperformance, a global digital business services company employing 5,000 people in South Africa, provided generous funding that made the project possible. “The partnership with Habitat for Humanity exemplifies Teleperformance’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. Habitat for Humanity is devoted to building affordable housing, through their work, they empower communities by addressing housing inequalities in areas like Khayelitsha, where many families face significant socio-economic challenges and limited access to decent housing. This collaboration has allowed us at Teleperformance to support this cause, creating homes that provide not only shelter but also dignity and stability. Seeing Nokwandisa’s family walk through their new home with so much delight was truly rewarding.” Noted Puneet Taneja, the Chief Operations Officer at Teleperformance. “Having witnessed the hardships they faced; I am happy and believe that God works in wonderful ways.” Says Kayaletu, the Community Leader who helped identify Nokwandisa and her family for the Build. “Nokwandisa has applied many times to the municipality for a new home, and now, at last, she and her children will sleep peacefully.” The 2024 Nelson Mandela Build brought together different stakeholders including governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector among others to build homes with vulnerable families and advocate for better housing policies.Nomfuyo Galeni, the Finance and Corporate Services Manager from Habitat for Humanity South Africa, said, “The annual Nelson Mandela Build is not just about constructing homes; it’s about building stability and honoring Madiba’s legacy of uplifting communities. This home will serve as a foundation for Nokwandisa’s family to build a brighter future.” Dalisile Mfazwe, the Councillor’s representative, expressed his gratitude for the difference that Habitat for Humanity South Africa has made in Khayelitsha, stating, “I am happy that Habitat for Humanity South Africa makes such an impactful difference in Khayelitsha. We now have five houses in our database that they have built here, and I am grateful for their ongoing support in our community.” The house handover ceremony not only marked the transformation of one family’s life but also served as a reminder of the power of collaboration, as exemplified through Nelson Mandela’s life and work. Various stakeholders including community members gathered to celebrate the moment, sharing in the joy of a new beginning for Nokwandisa and her children. For Nokwandisa and her family, this is the start of a new chapter. “I cannot wait to sleep in my new home with my children!” Her story is a testament to the strength of families who, even in the face of adversity, continue to strive for a better tomorrow. With the continued support of partners like Teleperformance, more families in Khayelitsha and beyond can look forward to a future where hope and dignity are restored, one home at a time.