What Began with One Fragile Child Became a Story of Strength, Purpose and Hope

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Once a vulnerable mother and baby in desperate need of a lifeline, Zinhle and Imi’s journeys have come full circle and are now the ones lifting others in their community of Embo in KZN.

Valley of 1000 Hills, South Africa (08 June 2026) – Once an infant lying alone in a dark hut, cared for by a vulnerable mother seeking support, Imi Phakathi and his mother, Zinhle, have seen their journeys come full circle. Today, they are paying the support they received forward and are a beautiful example of Project Hope’s mission.

When Project Hope’s Sara first met Zinhle in Embo back in 2020, she was at a breaking point. Sitting on a dusty hillside, exhausted by the relentless weight of poverty, she whispered two words: “want out.” A feeling most parents are too ashamed to admit.

As a mother of two, she was facing an impossible situation, and at the centre of that struggle was her young son, Imi.

Project Hope stepped in. With the support of donors, the charity surrounded the Phakathi family with practical care and compassion. Imi received medical support, clean clothing and the basic care he needed, while Zinhle was given space to breathe and begin rebuilding her strength.

The Phakathi’s Transformation

Imi was one of the first children to enter Project Hope’s ECD programme and is today a bright, beautiful six-year-old boy in Grade 1. He now speaks beautifully, radiates joy, and his eyes sparkle with a warmth that melts your heart.

Zinhle’s journey has been equally inspiring. Once a vulnerable mother in need of support, she is now a proud employee of Project Hope and is training part-time to become an ECD teacher. She is paying forward the same care her own family once received.

She also now leads the Embo community team at Project Hope’s newly launched Embo Skills Hut. Alongside Gogo Babongile, she oversees five local women who handcraft quality items for the online Shop of Hope.

“These talented ladies handcraft the quality items on sale through our online Shop of Hope. This marks a significant milestone in Project Hope’s holistic approach to social injustice. Together, they work towards breaking down the barriers of entrenched poverty one woven bead at a time,” the organisation shared.

Zinhle herself is becoming a skilled artisan, crafting traditional Zulu beadwork and learning basket weaving.

“A perfectionist at heart, she will pull apart the same Ubuntu Beaded Belt ten times just to fix a tiny mistake,” Project Hope said.

Above all, she is a mother determined to build a sustainable future for her two boys.

Brother Wandile, Imi and aunt Andiswa. Photo Credit: Project Hope SA via Facebook

Hope Comes Full Circle

Looking back, this family’s transformation has been nothing short of amazing. What began with one fragile child has evolved into a thriving community hub. Zinhle and Imi are living proof that intentional kindness can turn despair into dignity and hope into certainty.

Today, the Phakathi family is helping to support others in need. Hope’s circle is complete.

This June, the organisation is reflecting on the past and the individuals who shaped it. If you are moved by Imi’s story and want to make a positive impact on an impoverished household, visit Project Hope’s website and Sponsor a Mom Page.