Once struggling to find a job after school, Minenhle Simelane turned to his grandmother’s mat-making machine to craft something truly special: mats made from discarded waste!

Durban, South Africa (29 May 2025) – To transform discarded plastic waste into unique, handmade products, promoting sustainability and environmental conservation. This is the powerful motivation behind Minenhle Simelane’s colourful and stunning mats made from plastic and other waste.

Originally from rural eShowe and currently residing in Durban, Minenhle matriculated from Embizweni High School in 2018.

After facing challenges with unemployment, he chose to create mats from waste materials as a way to make ends meet and creatively contribute to environmental conservation.

Drawing inspiration from his grandmother, he used the Imbongolo (mat-making machine) to make these mats from waste collected from the roadside, rivers or dumpsites.

Over time, he found purpose in transforming discarded plastic waste into beautiful, handmade products, which in turn help him make money and address the alarming rate of plastic consumption.

With the increasing demand for mats this year, Minenhle has taken on four workers under his wing and is working towards developing his business. In his own words, “trash has created jobs and brought smiles to their faces”.

In support of Minenhle’s journey of using artistic expression to save the environment, Woza Moya stocks his mats for the public to view and purchase at the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust (HACT).

Moving forward, he hopes to grow his business and generate more job opportunities, fuelled by the growing demand for his eco-friendly products.

It is so inspiring to see young people not only make the most of their circumstances but also contribute to preserving the planet we all share in such creative ways. We wish you all the success, Minenhle!

Sources: Woza Moya | Minenhle Simelane

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Witnessing loved ones navigate serious health battles can profoundly shift one’s perspective. For Nadia Habig, it was this empathetic realisation that compelled her to use her passion for running to support the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust.

Durban, South Africa (16 May 2025) – Not everyone is fortunate enough to have someone supporting them during difficult times, especially when facing a serious disease. That is why Nadia Habig will be lacing up her running shoes in support of the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust this year.

We hear about people enduring unimaginable pain from illnesses almost every day, but it was after coming to terms with the heartbreaking realities of those closest to her fighting through each day that Nadia came to understand how important it is to be there for those going through their toughest battles.

“2024 marked my first Comrades, and that year was filled with personal highs and lows.

“While I was celebrating, many of my friends and family were facing serious health challenges, including cancer, bone disease, and potential kidney disease,” Nadia recalls.

It was during that time that Nadia realised how crucial it is to have a champion by your side.

And now, almost a year later, she is looking to be that champion for patients during their hour of need.

“After attending a run where a HACT spokesperson shared the incredible work they do, I realised that HACT is the real hero.

“They offer unwavering support to people during some of their darkest days. I want to do my part to support HACT in any way I can and be a champion for their cause,” Nadia shared.

By using her love for running as a beacon of solidarity, Nadia is truly embodying the spirit of being the friend and supporter so many need. With dedicated training well underway, she has already impressively reached her R10,000 goal for the cause!

“Thank you to everyone who has donated and contributed to this amazing cause and my crazy Comrades’ journey,” she thanked.

Sources: Nadia Habig | Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust

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A special order of bangles on their way to New York City from Hillcrest travel tethered to a unique story!

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (01 May 2025) — A striking collection of colourful beaded bangles are heading to New York City all the way from Hillcrest in KwaZulu-Natal. To some, they’d merely appear to be a bold range of accessories. But to the empowerment project of the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust (HACT), Woza Moya, they are shorthand for an unbreakable bond.

The Woza Moya team explained that the bangles are on their way to a very special customer, Tierney Echelmeier Norris. And, the ‘very special’ part is due to the fact that Tierney is no stranger to HACT. In fact, she once came to the centre as a volunteer, determined to help those in need.

Heartwarmingly, despite the years and distance between Tierney and HACT, the former volunteer has never forgotten her friends there. She continues to support them through Woza Moya in a big way—hosting jewellery sales in her home to spread the word of their work and, of course, to give the Big Apple a taste of local creativity.

“We love how Tierney manages to share her sparkle wherever she goes!” The Woza Moya team share.

About Woza Moya & Friends

So, who are the talented hands that create impactful craftwork? Woza Moya was established as an important project of HACT in 2002. While HACT is an organisation that has spent over three decades saving and transforming lives infected and affected by HIV/AIDS throughout KZN’s semi-rural and disadvantaged communities (HCAT was one of the first NGOs in our country to respond to the HIV/AIDS epidemic), Woza Moya supports a different socio-economic concern.

Through Woza Moya, people can use crafty skills to put food on the table, helping them get a hand up against poverty. Especially during incredibly financially strenuous times like the pandemic, their work often came to the rescue with creations sold locally and overseas.

Some of Woza Moya’s most gorgeous creations come in the form of beads, others in feathers. But you can decide for yourself by checking out their collections here. 

Sources: Email Submission 

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iThemba’s Closet, the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust’s charity thrift store, run by dedicated volunteers, offers a selection of gently used clothing. Every purchase directly supports crucial hospice and palliative care services for patients facing life-limiting illnesses.

Durban, South Africa (25 March 2025) – Within the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust (HACT) training rooms, there is a heartwarming hub of hope brewing for the community, and it’s in the form of a closet!

The iThemba’s Closet is the charity’s thrift store dedicated to supporting the organisation’s vital hospice and palliative care services.

Operated by a dedicated team of volunteers, iThemba’s Closet offers a curated selection of gently used clothing for men, women, teens, and children. It has quickly become a happy shop, bringing new visitors to HACT!

“Each purchase directly contributes to the care of patients in HACT’s Palliative Care & Hospice Unit, providing comfort and care to those facing life-limiting illnesses including late-stage cancer and AIDS,” shares HACT’s Marketing Manager Nokulunga Shozi.

With growing operations, the HACT team hopes to secure a permanent location to accommodate its growing operations. Plans are underway to secure a more spacious venue, ensuring iThemba’s Closet can continue to serve the community effectively.

“HACT would like to open the Closet more regularly as community members often arrive looking for cost-effective clothing, but unfortunately the Closet only receives enough clothing for once-a-month sales,” Nokulunga says.

To help keep its doors open while supporting a noble cause, community members are encouraged to donate clothing and volunteer their time to support iThemba’s Closet.

“With the extreme cuts to global HIV and AIDS funding, these contributions are vital to HACT’s ongoing services and vision of healthy, empowered and AIDS-free communities.”

The community is also invited to join the celebration at HACT’s Friday Late-Shopping event this Friday, March 28, as iThemba’s Closet will be open from 10 am to 7 pm. HACT’s Plant Nursery, Ubuntu Ground Café and Woza Moya shops will also be open, and there will be an Exhibition Opening featuring the work of talented local Art Interns.

For more information on how to get involved or to shop for a cause, visit HACT’s official website or follow their social media channels for updates on store hours and upcoming events.

Sources: Supplied

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When a cause tugs at your heart, you simply cannot ignore it. For Nyambeni Nefale, it is the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust. She will be lacing up her running shoes for a powerful purpose: to conquer the gruelling Comrades Marathon and raise vital funds for a charity that has been a lifeline for thousands!

Hillcrest, South Africa (04 March 2025) – The Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust (HACT) is dedicated to saving and transforming lives.

As one of the first NGO’s in South Africa to respond to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, HACT has established a reputation for making a significant impact in the lives of people impacted by the disease.

This year, Nyambeni Nefale will be once again putting on her running shoes to take on the ultimate human race – the Comrades Marathon to support HACT, a charity that is deeply personal to her!

“This incredible organisation provides vital care and support to individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS. Comrades is a test of endurance but it’s nothing compared to the daily struggles faced by those HACT supports. Every step I take is dedicated to making a difference,” shares Nyambeni.

Nyambeni has set herself a goal to raise R7,000 for the charity in support of the invaluable work it does to help families affected by HIV/AIDS.

By running the Comrades, Nyambeni is turning every step into a stride towards compassion and support.

You can be part of her effort to make a difference in HACT’s Hospice and Palliative Care In-Patient Unit by visiting the Comrades Marathon donations page here.

Sources: Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust | Comrades Marathon

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The Stephan Lewis Foundation is joining forces with the Hillcrest Aids Centre Trust to amplify the voices of the extraordinary gogos who serve and sustain their communities. The partnership aims to strengthen the Grandmothers’ Movement in South Africa, ensuring that these vital community leaders have the resources, knowledge, and support they need to thrive.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (26 February 2025) – If you’ve ever experienced the warmth, wise teachings and sometimes strict guidance of growing up around a loving grandmother or gogo, you’ll know how a house easily becomes a home and how no one will go without a meal or endure any kind of suffering alone when they are around.

These remarkable gogos, the pillars of their families and communities, are being recognised and empowered through an impactful collaboration.

In efforts to support the invaluable role of grandmothers in KwaZulu-Natal, the Stephan Lewis Foundation (SLF), recently engaged in a fruitful discussion with Ma Cwengi, the esteemed founder of Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust’s (HACT) Gogo Support Group Programme, and Phindiwe, the current programme coordinator.

The meeting focused on strategies to bolster and support the Grandmothers’ Movement in South Africa (GMISA), which both SLF and HACT helped to establish.

Ma Cwengi, a retired nurse and community leader, saw the pressing needs of these grandmothers caring for orphaned children as a result of AIDS and ignited a movement. Her and Phindiwe’s unwavering dedication has been instrumental in empowering these grandmothers, providing them with a platform for mutual support and collective action.

“The collaboration between SLF and HACT aims to enhance the capacity of GMISA by sharing resources, knowledge and best practices.

“By strengthening this network, the partnership seeks to amplify the voices of grandmothers across South Africa, ensuring grandmothers are active participants in their own awareness and advocacy,” HACT says.

The Gogo Support Group programme and the more recent GMISA underscores the vital role that grandmothers play in sustaining communities and highlights the importance of supporting their leadership and role in the ongoing fight against HIV and AIDS.

Sources: Hillcrest Aids Centre Trust

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Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust (HACT) invites the community to participate in a poignant tribute to loved ones lost to AIDS and cancer this year. This Friday, HACT will unveil its first-ever Tree of Remembrance, a beautiful symbol of hope and remembrance in commemoration of World AIDS Day.

Hillcrest, South Africa (26 November 2024) – Ahead of World AIDS Day on 1 December, Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust (HACT) invites the community to “light up a memory” in a touching tribute to loved ones who are no longer with us.

This Friday evening, 29 November, HACT will unveil its very first Tree of Remembrance on Old Main Road, a poignant commemoration of lives lost, particularly in the face of late-stage AIDS and cancer.

The ceremony will serve as a heartfelt tribute to those who have passed within the Centre’s Respite & Palliative Care Unit over the past year and a reminder of the strength and resilience of the community.

For R50, supporters can honour their loved ones by purchasing a globe to place on the tree, symbolising both remembrance and hope. Each globe will help fund essential care for patients within the Centre, directly benefiting individuals and families in need.

“The lights on our Tree of Remembrance are more than just a tribute—they’re a beacon of unconditional love and hope, which is HACT’s mission,” shares Candace Moolman, HACT’s CEO.

“We’ve had a challenging year at HACT and have lost patients, staff and volunteers, and we know many others have also experienced loss. We encourage our community to join us in celebrating lives, sharing memories, and shining a light on the journey of healing and support.”

Annual candle lighting ceremony

There organisation’s annual candle lighting ceremony will also be observed that same Friday morning to honour and remember the 69 lives lost in the Unit over the past year.

HACT’s Chief Executive Officer, Candace Moolman, shares that while there has been substantial progress made in the HIV response, there remains a risk these can be lost due to funding and capacity shortages. She stresses the need to ‘own’ the issue of HIV and AIDS to ensure the gains over the past decades aren’t lost.

“There is an international call to link progress to human rights and a strengthening of health systems. To end AIDS there is a need to reach and engage everyone who is living with, at risk of or affected by HIV, especially those who have been excluded or marginalised.

“This is an issue of political will and action, corporate responsibility, gender equality, acceptance, respect and care for everyone. Anything less than this will obstruct access to HIV prevention, testing and meaningful response. Part of protecting everyone’s health is by protecting and advocating for everyone’s rights,” explains Moolman.

As World AIDS Day approaches, Moolman advocates for a collective approach in pushing forward for progress towards HIV goals to avoid many lives being vulnerable and, sadly, lost.

“Change does not depend on a moment but on a movement. HACT is proudly continuing its work and advocacy toward our vision of healthy, empowered and AIDS-free communities.”

HACT thanks its partners and supporters who continue to support and strengthen its holistic services to address HIV and AIDS.

The public is invited to attend both the annual candle lighting (at 10 am) and the Tree of Remembrance ceremony (6.30 pm) on 29 November at 26 Old Main Road in Hillcrest, KZN.

The special event is a call to celebrate life, share a memory and shine a light of unconditional love and hope.

To reserve a globe for the tree and make a meaningful impact, please contact marketing@hillaids.org.za

Sources: Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust

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Calling all creative minds! Woza Moya & Friends is hosting a fun and fashionable waistcoat exhibition. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a beginner, you’re invited to design and decorate your own waistcoat to have displayed (and even sold) in their gallery.

Hillcrest, South Africa (13 November 2024) –  If you’re a follower of fashion, you’ll know that waistcoats have made a trendy comeback! Whether you choose to rock them with matching pants, denim or a cutesy mini skirt, this formal-to-casual piece is an easy wardrobe go-to.

Maximising on the popular trend while nurturing local creativity, the talented and crafty mamas at Woza Moya & Friends are calling on the community of the Valley of a 1000 Hills, Hillcrest and beyond to get their creative juices flowing by making or decorating a waistcoat. These waistcoats will be showcased in their December/January Waistcoat Exhibition.

Whether you choose to paint, appliqué, embroider, don your waistcoat with beadwork or any other way – let the artist in you run wild. Just make sure it reaches Woza Moya by Tuesday, 10 December!

So grab your scissors, fabric, and imagination, and let your creativity shine! The exhibition will be featured extensively on their social media and the Woza Moya ladies will even try and sell entries on the artists’ behalf based on their desired price (unless of course, it is something the artist wants to keep for themselves).

Blank waistcoats are available from Woza Moya at R50 each if you need one to get you started.

Woza Moya & Friends is an economic empowerment project of the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust situated at 26 Old Main Road in Hillcrest.

To get in on the creative fun or for more information, call 031 765 5866 or email wozamoya@hillaids.org.za

Sources: Woza Moya & Friends 

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A powerful partnership between the Hillcrest Aids Centre Trust and The Litterboom Project highlighted the devastating impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems and the opportunities for creating sustainable livelihoods through waste recycling and repurposing.

Hillcrest, South Africa (02 October 2024) – Two awesome organisations came together for a powerful partnership for a greener tomorrow.

Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust (HACT) welcomed The Litterboom Project, South Africa’s largest river cleanup initiative, for a thought-provoking talk on environmental protection.

Their presentation focused on the importance of keeping rivers clean to protect marine ecosystems as well as creating opportunities for youth to become WastePreneurs.

Litterboom Wastepreneur Njabulo gave a short talk on recycling and the waste problem. He shared insights on how to identify recyclable and non-recyclable items, empowering everyone to make better choices when it comes to managing waste.

The session, attended by HACT staff, volunteers, youth interns, and Indalo Agri-Entrepreneur trainees, highlighted the far-reaching benefits of waste reduction.

“Keeping our rivers clean not only helps prevent harmful plastic from devastating our oceans but also provides a pathway for sustainable livelihoods within our communities.

“Litterboom’s mission aligns closely with our values of empowerment, environmental stewardship, and community development,” HACT said.

HACT reiterated the need to protect waterways, as a way of safeguarding not only the environment but also the health and future of those who depend on it.

“As we work together to create cleaner rivers, we are investing in a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come,” HACT added.

Inspired by HACT’s innovative upcycling efforts, The Litterboom team also discovered new possibilities for transforming plastic waste into valuable products.

Many of HACT’s volunteers and staff have successfully repurposed plastic into high-quality items to sell locally, demonstrating the potential for sustainable livelihoods.

“This is one of the many ways we’re working to support reclaimers, empower our communities, and reduce plastic pollution,” The Litterboom Project shared.

By working together, HACT and Litterboom are taking significant steps towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for generations to come.

Sources: Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust / The Litterboom Project

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Recognised for her talent and the importance of preserving traditional African craft, Gogo Tholani will be featured in a film and train other crafters on beaded miniature animal sculptures.

Hillcrest, South Africa (22 September 2024) – In the middle of the serene beauty of the Valley of 1000 Hills in KZN, Gogo Tholani, a master of beadwork, creates stunning miniature animal sculptures in her rural Inchanga home.

Gogo Tholani’s meticulous work has earned her a feature in a short documentary by Woza Moya, which will showcase the making of these unique animals by the humble and beautiful lady.

While visually appealing, it takes two days to make just one small guinea foul sculpture and the beaded animals are becoming increasingly difficult to find as many local crafters are reluctant to make them as they are so time-consuming.

The animal starts with a thin wire frame (Gogo’s husband lends a hand in this) which is stuffed with a type of felt and then a stocking-like material is sewn over the body to create a surface to bead on.

To help preserve this beautiful art, Gogo Tholani has been invited to the Woza Moya Centre to share her beading and craft skills. She will train a select group of beaders and hopes to find women with the skill and desire to keep this craft alive.

Woza Moya is the economic empowerment project of the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust, a registered non-profit organisation in South Africa dedicated to saving and transforming lives through our various programmes and initiatives.

Sources: Woza Moya & Friends

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