BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
MBABANE — Thulisile Dladla shared moments of hope and encouragement with 12 children supported by the Only God Knows Organisation during a heartfelt programme held at the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office Boardroom on 26 February 2026.
The children, who receive assistance with school fees, uniforms and social welfare support, were presented with food parcels and applauded for their academic and personal achievements. The gathering served as a celebration of resilience and a testament to the transformative power of love, guidance and opportunity.
Addressing the children and officials present, Dladla stressed that a child’s background does not define their future. She commended the organisation for nurturing academic excellence among its beneficiaries, noting that some had achieved top marks in their Grade 7 and Form 5 examinations.
“It does not matter what the environment looks like; what matters is that a child receives love,” she said, adding that with the right guidance and support, every child has the potential to succeed.
The Deputy Prime Minister also delivered a candid message to parents, urging them to shield their children from the strain of adult conflicts.
“Even if parents are divorcing, the children must not suffer. Do not take your frustrations out on them,” she said. “As parents, let us not assume we will forever be young. One day, we will depend on these children.”
She encouraged the young beneficiaries to practise forgiveness and compassion. “Even if a parent deserted you, you must still look after them when they return. Wrong cannot correct wrong,” she advised.
Dladla further urged the children to remain focused on their studies and avoid distractions, particularly emphasising the importance of dedication to education among girls. She revealed that her office would soon visit some of the children’s homesteads to assess living conditions and determine where housing support may be required for vulnerable families.
Colani Nkambule, Managing Director of the Only God Knows Organisation, expressed gratitude for the children’s determination and positive outlook. He disclosed that 94 children under the organisation’s care are currently in high school, while 16 have completed tertiary education. Of those graduates, six are employed, including three working in the United States.
Nkambule also announced plans to assist selected children in sitting entrance examinations at Waterford Kamhlaba, which could open doors to sponsorship opportunities. He called on the public to continue supporting vulnerable children, emphasising that consistent love, care and mentorship can alter the trajectory of a young person’s life.
Among those who shared their testimonies was 14-year-old Matsebula Thandolwenkosi, who revealed that the organisation had rescued her from a dark period when she had contemplated ending her life. Today, she stands hopeful and grateful for the chance to attend school like her peers.
Mlondi Dlamini, a learner at Duze High School with a keen interest in Science, reflected on his journey with optimism. “You may not have a happy beginning, but that does not determine your end,” he said, thanking all who had contributed to his education.
The engagement concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and a shared understanding that when children are nurtured with love and given meaningful opportunities, they can overcome adversity, excel academically and grow into responsible and compassionate citizens.
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