Two young friends baked, squeezed, and sold their way to a generous donation for Mdzananda Animal Clinic’s animals in need.
Cape Town, South Africa (03 March 2026) – Mdzananda Animal Clinic is celebrating two young friends, Manu von Hase-Gowans and Timo Neo Thomson, who took it upon themselves to raise funds for animals in need – and did so entirely on their own initiative.
“These two young changemakers decided they wanted to do something meaningful with their free time. So they didn’t wait for an adult to organise it. They rolled up their sleeves, baked muffins and cookies, squeezed fresh lemonade, and headed off to the beach. With courage – and probably a little sales pitch practice – they sold their homemade treats to beachgoers, all with one goal in mind: helping animals in need,” the Khayelitsha-based animal welfare organisation shared.
The duo made the most of the beach’s busy foot traffic and raised an impressive R1,200 for Mdzananda by selling their sweet treats and cold lemonade from their makeshift beachfront store. They named it Lemon & Co.
“They reached out to set up a meeting with Sam, our General Manager, and personally delivered their donation to Mdzananda Animal Clinic. They toured the clinic and shelter, seeing first-hand what their efforts would support – sterilisations, medical care, food, and second chances for animals in Khayelitsha,” Mdzananda shared.
Once they had handed over their donation and toured the clinic, Manu and Timo took the time to connect with the community whose animals will benefit from their thoughtful contribution.
“They were also shown around Khayelitsha by the wonderful Zikhona, an ex-Mdzananda staff member and proud ambassador of her community. They didn’t just donate money — they connected with the people and the place behind the cause.”
Stories like this one fill us with hope. They remind us that there’s no age limit on making a meaningful difference, and they inspire other young people to think creatively about how they can give back – while building real entrepreneurial skills along the way.
“There’s something powerful about children taking initiative like this. No one forced them. No school project required it. They saw a need and decided to act,” the clinic shared.
None of this happens without parents who say yes – who encourage their children to have confidence in and act on their ideas, follow through, and understand that kindness means doing, not just feeling.
“And behind every empowered child are parents who encourage independence, compassion, and action. Raising children who understand that kindness is not just a feeling – it’s something you do – is one of the most meaningful investments any parent can make.” it added.
So encourage that lemonade stand in your complex. Cheer them on when they want to raise funds for a worthy cause at school. Help them look for the need and become the helpers. That is how we raise the next generation of adults who want to change the world.
“Manu and Timo reminded us that impact is not about age — it’s about intention. When young minds are trusted to lead with compassion, the future looks very bright indeed.” the clinic shared.
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