In a heartwarming act of generosity and humanity, a 35-year-old blind mother of four, Cynthia Nompumelelo Mkhonta, has received the gift of a lifetime—a brand-new home. The life-changing event took place just ahead of the prestigious Metro FM Music Awards held on Saturday, May 3, 2025.
The handover occurred on Friday, May 2, when Mkhonta was presented with the keys to her new home in Louisville, Mpumalanga. The initiative was a collaboration between Metro FM, the Collen Mashawana Foundation, the Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation, and the philanthropic organization ZAKHAA.
Cynthia lost her eyesight in 2022 due to an illness and has since been raising her four children in dire conditions. Their home was a mud hut with no electricity, no running water, and a separate structure for cooking. Despite the harsh circumstances, she remained strong for her children.
Teboho Twala, the founder of ZAKHAA and a former street child, spoke emotionally about the project. “This story touched me deeply because I know what it’s like to have nothing. Being homeless once myself, I understand the importance of a home. This is a new beginning for Ms. Mkhonta and her children,” he said. “Changing lives is the heart of what ZAKHAA stands for.”
Gushwell Brooks, CEO of the Collen Mashawana Foundation, also emphasized the significance of the gesture. “We are proud to have partnered with Metro FM and the Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation. For us, this is not just about building a house—it’s about restoring dignity, hope, and creating a stable future for a family in need,” he stated.
The initiative was not only an act of charity but also a testament to what can be achieved when people and organizations come together to uplift others.
Metro FM’s Breakaway host, Khutso Theledi, highlighted that this project went beyond just being part of the awards celebration. “This is bigger than the Metro FM Awards. Let me tell you about Mam Cynthia—she’s a powerful 35-year-old woman who lost her eyesight in 2022. She lived in a mud house with her four children, and today her life has changed forever. This is about creating a legacy,” she said.
This remarkable gesture stands as a powerful reminder of the impact of community and compassion. In the face of adversity, Cynthia Mkhonta’s story has become a symbol of hope and resilience—proving that with the right support, even the darkest times can give way to a brighter future.
Through initiatives like this, public and private sectors continue to show the importance of giving back, particularly to those most in need. The gift of a home is more than just a shelter—it is a foundation for a better tomorrow.