Dr Nomvula Shale was told she only had six months to live. Instead of giving up, she chose to dedicate her remaining time to helping others. It’s been thirty years, and she’s still going strong, earning the praise of fellow foundations inspired by her impact.
Durban, South Africa (27 August 2025) – Sometimes, all it takes is a single moment to redefine the course our lives will take. When she was told she had only six months to live after being diagnosed with HIV, Dr Nomvula Shale refused to accept that fate and chose instead to dedicate her life to service.
This was in 1995.
Thirty years later, not only is Dr Shale still alive and well, but she is a true beacon of hope. She is a brave activist, community builder and the founder of Siphila Ngomusa Centre in Durban.
At the heart of the centre are 11 incredible women, each a survivor of gender-based violence, who now use their own experiences to help others heal. Together, they help serve and feed over 488 people every day, while providing support to those living with HIV, survivors of GBV, people facing addiction, homelessness, and other vulnerabilities.
Together with Dr Shale, they were recently honoured by the Robin Hood Foundation (RHF), SA Harvest and The Sharks, who paid them a visit bearing gifts and supplies to keep their centre fully stocked.
“We were humbled to deliver personalised gift bags to 11 extraordinary women. Today, they use their pain as power, helping other women heal, find hope, and rebuild their lives.
“These women embody the true spirit of Women’s Month: courage, resilience, compassion, and leadership,” The Robin Hood Foundation said.
The RHF thanked its partners for standing with them in shining a light on the work, stories, and strength of the all-women Siphila Ngomusa team.
“Together, we can keep building a world where no woman stands alone.”
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