South Africa: From unsafe space to shared power: How one woman reclaimed a community's future

KwaMnyandu, a rural community outside Pietermaritzburg, has long faced high unemployment, poverty, and a lack of economic opportunities. Women and young people were particularly affected, with few pathways to skills development or dignified income generation. Adding to the challenge was an abandoned community hall—once a place for gatherings but left derelict for decades. It had become occupied by drug users, unsafe for community use, and a symbol of lost potential.

It was in this environment that Nontobeko Phungula, a 33‑year‑old women and youth leader, saw an opportunity for transformation. She founded Imbewuyesizwe NPO to address unemployment, drug abuse, and economic exclusion affecting women and youth. At the time, the NPO was informal and unfunded, but her vision attracted support through the Sasops Women in Trades (SWITS) Programme under Sasopsbiz Foundation.

SWITS introduced a unique, skills‑for‑development approach—using real projects as training platforms. Rather than waiting for infrastructure funds, the abandoned hall itself became a live training site. Young women were enrolled and trained by a qualified female painter in painting, door fixing, and window installation—skills generally associated with men. This affirmed women as economic actors, not passive beneficiaries.

The transformation required strong community mobilisation. Nontobeko worked with the Induna and traditional authority, while the ward councillor eventually supported the project by donating windows. Another partner, Inkunzi Isematholeni, supported young men previously occupying the hall, ensuring the intervention uplifted rather than displaced vulnerable groups. Community members contributed labour, catering, and decorations—anchoring the project in shared ownership.

By the time refurbishment was completed, the hall had shifted from a space of fear to a hub of economic and social activity. Women gained confidence, experience, and new income opportunities. Several trainees now receive painting contracts, while one participant has registered her own business and secured subcontracting work. Others continue to work with the trainer, accessing jobs beyond Pietermaritzburg.

The restored hall now hosts community functions, funerals, government programmes, youth events, talent shows, and the local Ms KwaMnyandu competition. Imbewuyesizwe NPO also runs Imbewu Yamantombazane, a programme for 20 girls offering mentoring, sanitary pads, and life skills workshops. Additional income‑generating activities, such as cabbage farming and producing pit toilet cleaning acid, help sustain the organisation.

Local businesses—catering, décor hire, sound systems, and generator services—have also benefited from increased hall usage. What was once an abandoned building is now a centre of dignity and economic justice. The project demonstrates how women‑led solutions, combined with community partnerships, can reclaim public spaces and unlock long‑term, sustainable livelihoods.

Quotes

Induna Themba Zulu As the traditional leader, I have witnessed many challenges. The revival of the community hall has united our people and restored safety.

Sibongile M. When we started, many doubted us. Seeing the hall full of hope and activity makes me proud.

Skhumbuzo Zuma This hall was seen as beyond repair. What the youth and Sasopsbiz achieved is remarkable and inspiring.