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Tsenulo Moyo
A woman from Bulawayo is leaving an indelible mark on the community through her philanthropic endeavors, championing a better life for vulnerable members of society.
Lucinda Hughes (54) embarked on her philanthropic journey in 2018 and has since collaborated with various organisations, including Kidzcan Zimbabwe, Mustard Seed Communities Zimbabwe, Isaiah’s Home of Love Children’s Orphanage, King George Centre, Maureen Terera Foundation, Tree of Life Foundation, Santa Comes to Makokoba, and Church of Christ Colenbrander Avenue, to assist vulnerable members of the community.
Hughes also actively participates in blood drives organized by the National Blood Service Zimbabwe, the Cally Rahman Blood Drive, and Nats Diabetes awareness campaigns. Furthermore, she has participated in two ocean marathons with her boot camp team to raise funds for children battling cancer.
She attributed her desire to help others to her upbringing.
Raised by a single parent, she was fortunate to experience love and care within a community deeply rooted in the values of Ubuntu.
“By extending a helping hand to those in need, we not only uplift others but also enrich our own lives.
“Whether it’s offering a warm meal, a listening ear, or simply a smile, every gesture counts. Together, we can build a community where everyone feels valued, supported, and loved,” she said.
Some of the initiatives she has undertaken include food distributions, medical assistance, educational support, and psychological support for vulnerable individuals in areas such as Bulawayo, Tsholotsho, and Harare.
Hughes emphasised that these organisations, with which she collaborates, are composed of diverse teams with exceptional leaders and individuals who inspire one another by contributing their unique value and sharing a common vision.
Through her work over the years, Hughes has successfully assisted approximately 5,000 people across the country.
She identified several challenges encountered in her philanthropic endeavors, including economic instability within the country, the legal framework governing NGOs, resource constraints, cultural factors, political instability, and a lack of public awareness regarding the importance of philanthropy.
“My message to all Zimbabweans is that in times of challenge and uncertainty, our strength lies in our unity and compassion.
“As we navigate life’s ups and downs, let us remember the importance of caring for the vulnerable among us.
“Each act of kindness, no matter how small, creates ripples of hope and love that can transform lives,” she stated.
“My dream is to establish schools, homes, and hospitals worldwide to serve vulnerable communities and actively involve them in sustainable skills empowerment programs to uplift these communities,” she added.
“Furthermore, I dream of creating a home for children with special needs who have been abandoned due to their disabilities and lack family support,” she said.
Looking towards the future, she expressed her aspiration to utilise the Nozizwe Mother of Nations Trust to leverage digital outreach and education, foster global partnerships, cultivate volunteer networks, implement sustainable development projects, and conduct advocacy and awareness campaigns, as well as cultural exchange programmes.
Online Reporter