Chronicle Editor
Nobukhosi Ndlovu, Sunday News Reporter
GROWING up poor and in an underdeveloped community gave young Mr Philani Moyo the determination to work hard and make a name for himself.
Going to school without books and in a torn uniform and shoes did not break his spirit nor did it push him to resort to a life of crime due to the harsh realities of life. Education remained his only key to success and he vowed that the next generation that followed him would not endure the same difficulties he faced during his academic era. Fast forward to today, Mr Moyo has found a way to give back to the same community that he grew up in so that other kids do not face the same harsh conditions he endured.
“I grew up in Tsholotsho, Mtshayeli village under Headman Nkosana Mlevu. I grew up in a poor family which could not fend for me and that made it difficult for me to have a smooth academic path because I lacked school stationery, proper uniforms and shoes,” he said.
Mr Moyo said he was denied a smooth academic path growing up but his heart bleeds when he sees young children in his community who cannot go to school due to financial constraints. It was then when he started assisting kids from poor backgrounds.
“In 2022, I realised that other children in my community were dropping out of school due to lack of school uniforms, stationery and other financial constraints. I took it upon myself to start a programme called Philani Helping Hands (PHH) which is aimed at helping school children,” he said.
Philani Helping Hands (PHH) is a foundation that Mr Moyo started to ensure that every child in Mtshayeli village attends school and its objective is to instil hope in those that may be feeling hopeless.
“It’s not about attending the best schools in life that makes people fulfil their destiny and purpose in life. Encouraging and helping children from the same community that I faced hardships in will bring hope for a better future in them. In 2023 I proceeded to Tsholotsho to give out my first donation. I gave out books, stationery and uniforms. A lot of children could not write in class as they had no pens, pencils and books. Others were shying away from school as they had no uniforms and school shoes,” he explained.
Mr Moyo’s philanthropic work has changed many lives in Tsholotsho and his wish is to continue sending children in Tsholotsho and beyond to school so that they have a bright future.
“Education is the key to success and a constitutional right. No child should be deprived of that right. Philani Helping Hands aims to see these children become doctors, pilots, teachers and engineers. Poverty should not keep kids out of school,” he said.
Mr Moyo implored Zimbabweans who might want to assist Philani Helping Hands to reach out so that the dreams that these children have are validated and made true.
“As Philani Helping Hands, my wish is to see this work growing. I plead with the people of Zimbabwe and even those outside the borders to assist PHH with any donation so that we continue the good work of giving back to communities that are faced with difficulty. Any little donation can go a long way.”
Online Reporter