A group of second-year Interior Design students from Nelson Mandela University (NMU) is stepping up to make a meaningful difference in their community. Driven by a deep desire to impact lives positively, these students have taken on the challenge of transforming the Protea Child & Youth Care Centre in Forest Hill, Gqeberha. This initiative reflects not just the students’ skills, but also the powerful spirit of Ubuntu, using one’s abilities and resources to support and uplift others.
The Protea Child & Youth Care Centre is home to children who have faced significant adversity, many of whom are orphaned or victims of heartbreaking circumstances. Understanding the importance of creating a welcoming and nurturing environment, the NMU students have been working diligently to design proposals aimed at revamping two key spaces within the centre. The goal is to provide a brighter, more uplifting atmosphere that will bring joy and comfort to the children who live there.
Charista, one of the students involved in the project, shares, “This initiative is an incredible opportunity for us aspiring designers to apply our skills in a way that positively impacts our local community while creating a space that the children can enjoy for years to come.” Her words reflect the passion and commitment driving the group as they move closer to executing their designs.
The project was officially started on Tuesday 25 February, with the next steps set for the practical phase, scheduled to take place from March 29 to April 6. The students are not only working hard to finalize their designs but are also seeking to raise R15,000 on their BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign of which they have already raised R3000 with the help of 6 generous donors to bring their vision to life. This crowdfunding goal will support the purchase of materials and resources necessary to make the revamp a reality.
This project is a powerful example of how young people can make a tangible difference by using their talents and resources to contribute to the well-being of others. The collaborative effort to transform the centre is not only an exercise in design but also an embodiment of the true spirit of Ubuntu: lifting others up through selfless acts of kindness and community support.
The NMU Interior Design students are proving that even small acts of kindness can lead to monumental change. With their dedication and the community’s support, this project is set to leave a lasting impact on the children of Protea Child & Youth Care Centre, showing them that they are not alone and that there are people who care.
Support their campaign here: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/protea-childrens-home-renovation-project
SOURCE: GOOD THINGS GUY