'People need to know someone cares, that they are not alone’

"Giving is something that must come from the heart. When you help someone, you should not expect anything in return; you should do it because you see a need and want to make a difference.”

These are the words of Anna-Oletu Shaulwa, founder of TBJ Hope Charity, who provides support to vulnerable members of her community while balancing the demands of running her own informal business.

Speaking to Namibian Sun in Otjiwarongo last Sunday, Shaulwa shared how her passion for helping others has grown into a charity initiative that provides food, old clothing and other essential items to people facing difficult circumstances.

“It is not only about giving someone food or clothes. Sometimes people also need to know that someone cares about them and that they are not alone,” Shaulwa said.

For Shaulwa, the desire to give back is a value that was passed down through her family, who taught her the importance of helping others without expecting recognition or personal gain.

While she runs her own street business to provide for her family, she says her charitable work remains close to her heart and has not affected her ability to take care of her household.

Against all the odds

However, she admits that supporting others is not always an easy task, especially when resources are limited and the number of people seeking assistance continues to rise.

“Sometimes you want to help everyone, but you also have to work with what you have," she said. "There are people who expect more from you every day, and that can be challenging, but it does not stop me from helping where I can."

Shaulwa’s non-profit charity is fully registered, and she is now looking for additional funding and partnerships to help expand TBJ Hope Charity’s operations and reach more people in need.

She believes that with more support, the organisation can grow beyond the small-scale assistance it currently provides and have a greater impact within the community.

Despite the challenges she encounters, Shaulwa remains committed to her mission of creating unity and encouraging a culture of support within the community.

She says her goal is not to receive praise, but rather to inspire others to understand that even small acts of kindness can bring hope to those going through difficult times.

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