One of the things I love most about Londolozi is that the essence of care and luxury extends far beyond the confines of opulent camps and thrilling safari adventures. It weaves into the fabric of compassion, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those in need. Being a part of the Londolozi Ripple Fund is a great privilege, our job is to find exceptional people quietly doing great work in the world. People who would normally go unnoticed and make sure they receive support and care. And last week, I was reminded once again why I do the work I do.
Some of you may have read about the incredible story of one of our own – Eric Ubisi and his wife Merciful – ripple creators that just simply make this world a better place. In 2008 the couple recognised the need for a school for orphaned children in the communities surrounding Londolozi. They called it Shalamakane which means “wake up and see the sunrise”. A couple of years later in 2010, they opened a second orphanage, called Hlayisekani, one that served the needs of young, differently abled children in the communities surrounding the Sabi Sand Reserve, at which extra care and facilitated learning could take place.
The motivation to provide these children and young adults with care and learning came from Eric’s childhood where he was orphaned from the age of 7. His determination, along with his wife’s, has been truly inspirational. It is not just a school and care facility for disabled children, it is a place teeming with joy, a sanctuary where the warmth of love and care eclipses the hardships facing its occupants, a place with a resilient spirit that has weathered storms, both literally and metaphorically.
November was a time for giving, and December is one of celebration. So when a literal storm hit Hlayisekani this last month I was lucky enough to witness both giving and celebration manifest themselves in the most remarkable way…
There exists a place touched by a different kind of magic. A magic that I struggle to find the words to adeptly describe.
Hlayisekani Orphanage
We were honoured to have attended the Christmas Party of Hlayisekani, a day that I will never forget!
Today, Hlayisekani cares for 24 young people, meeting needs that rural communities generally aren’t geared towards, such as wheelchair-friendly access. But life, much like the untamed wilderness at Londolozi, is unpredictable. A recent storm, fierce and unforgiving, swept through the region, tearing the roof off of the Hlayisekani centre, a heartbreaking loss for Eric and the volunteers who are now in search of ways to repair the damage caused by the storm. Inspired by our silent hero, Eric, whose quiet determination and tireless efforts have shaped the fabric of Hlayisekani, we jumped at the chance to get involved and help in any way we can.
Parts of the roof landed in a tree next to the school – tragic!
In the face of adversity, the spirit of resilience shone brighter than ever. Amidst the challenges, the Christmas Party at Hlayisekani was a testament to the enduring joy that springs forth from the hearts of the little legends I feel so privileged to have met. Laughter echoed through the air, music was all around me, and as I sat in this festive celebration and thought to myself, yes there is much to rebuild and repair, but I truly felt the presence of magic. In tough circumstances, the true Christmas spirit emerged – the true magic of the season lies in the bonds forged when hearts unite for a common cause.
I am honoured to have met this little legend, Afnes.
The festive gathering showcased the profound impact that a community can have when it chooses to stand together – Ubuntu.
At very fast notice the Londolozi Ripple Fund was able to donate 27 mattresses and clothing to Hlayisekani as our Christmas gift, and are in conversations with Eric about how to rebuild the damaged roof and building. What many people don’t always realise is that this act is not merely charity, it is a ripple effect set in motion by each guest who chooses to stay at Londolozi.
Cry Sithole hands out mattresses & clothing donated by the Londolozi Ripple Fund
As Eric returns to Londolozi, his quiet smile carries with it the knowledge that his work, supported by the Londolozi Ripple Fund, is a beacon of hope for those who need it most. In time, we would love to help with the completion of the building and facilities, electric wheelchairs, handicapped bathrooms, and a functioning kitchen.
The Hlayisekani makeshift kitchen, which unfortunately also lost its roof during the recent storms
The main classroom at Hlayisekani
I have found myself feeling choked up at the kindness and never-ending depth of love that YOU, our global Londolozi family, show us and our various good work in the world projects. And for that, we cannot thank you enough.
It was truly inspiring to see first-hand what happens when people choose to do something from the heart. Eric, Merciful, and everyone involved with Hlayisekani are beacons of light in the world. They have simply chosen to make a difference and better the lives of so many who need help. Hlayisekani, nestled in the embrace of the wild, just 3 hours from Londolozi, taught me this lesson: in the indomitable spirit of people lies an extraordinary magic – a redefinition of what beauty truly means. It’s a reminder that one must simply begin, for in the smallest acts, the essence of significance is discovered.
Stay in the Ripple
To get involved, make a donation or for more information, please reach out to us at ripple@londolozi.co.za. To follow regular updates on projects and donations as they unfold and follow work that has already been successfully completed follow us on Instagram @ripple_fund and visit our Londolozi Ripple Fund Impact Site.
Thank you for sharing your experience with such beautiful words Shan … and for reminding us that … “one must simply begin, for in the smallest acts, the essence of significance is discovered” and that we can all, just like Eric and Merciful, help make our world a better place!
Such inspiring people!!!
Shannon, thank you for introducing me to the orphanage . As a user of a motorized wheelchair for the past thirty five years I understand a little bit about the needs of disabled people. We will certainly continue with our donations to the ripple fund.
How special, William. Thank you for all that you do.
How wonderful that the Londolozi Ripple Fund was able to step in so quickly to assist.
Thank you, Chelsea. We are in many discussions & planning on how to assist further.
Thank you Shannon for recognizing Eric Ubisi and his wife Merciful who established a school for orphans who other wise, I’m guessing, would not benefit from an education. Not stopping with the school, I’m impressed that they continued their community caring by creating a care facility for differently abled children and young adults that also includes educational opportunities. I’m saddened by the news of the destructive storm but as we learn through your blogs and personal experiences, from natural disasters there is a resiliency that materializes magically. Through contributions to the Ripple Fund, and acts of kindness, stronger roofs will be constructed, so the residents can continue to thrive. Seeing their smiling faces in your images, it’s apparent that not having a roof didn’t diminish their joy in celebrating the holidays since they were surrounded by love, thanks to Eric and his commitment to provide a safe and caring environment.
Thank you, Denise. There was an abundance of joy and love during the Christmas party – I feel so lucky to have been there.
It is a great achievement for everyone contributing to the orphanage. Not everyone has the means to do so, but a big thanks to those who can help the orphanage and all the children with financial help and other needs. Your work at the orphanage Shannon, must be very rewarding, and heart warming.
Thank you Valmai. Very heart warming and a real privilege to have spent such a magical day meeting such beautiful people!