Our story is one of many South African children, growing under dire conditions and challenging poverty, lack of resources, exposure, and inspiration. Kwanda was born in the North-East of Kwa-Zulu Nata in a small town called Manguzi. He was raised by his single mother Thembi, who lost her husband in a tragic car accident. At the time Kwanda was nearly six years old. His house mother of three other girls had to quickly learn how to put food on the table shortly after the passing of the breadwinner.

Through the support of gogo Mangubane, some close family members, the Church community, and the village the young boy was raised. Inspired by his teachers, he fell in love with Mathematics and Science at an early age. This passion carried on until Kwanda went to University of Kwa-Zulu Natal and studies Science and Mathematics. He then became a teacher of these subjects.

The help of others got him out of poverty and now he has gathered a group of professionals and friends to try and raise funds that will help make a difference in his community. The Kwanda Sibiya Foundation was a dream for a long time, but the Manguzi 500 run/cycle race done in partnership with Hilton College, The Kolisi Foundation and Sport for Lives brought it into inception. This journey raised R250 000 and was a life changing experience for many people who took part in it. The Kwanda Sibiya Foundation aims to inspire, empower, and support pupils of the Manguzi community. Hambisanani High School, Gadokuwayo Primary will be the focus schools to begin with and the neighbouring schools will follow. We believe in deeper meaningful impact; hence, our focus is directed to a smaller group. Our Three pilar projects are Funda Fundi Reading and literacy project, uMkhaya Education Project and KwaNgwanase Career’s Expo.