A few months ago, we learned about a little girl named Ntokozo, whose story touched our hearts deeply. Ntokozo was unable to walk and had no wheelchair to give her the freedom she so desperately needed. Her devoted family tried tirelessly to find her a wheelchair but faced heartbreak and disappointment at every turn.
Her mother, battling her own challenges with a debilitating autoimmune disease that left her in pain and with swollen joints most days, carried her daughter with unconditional love and strength, never wavering despite the physical toll.
At Project Hope, we are privileged to collaborate with an incredible organization, the Sweethearts Foundation. They transform everyday items—bottle tops and bread tags—into miracles. These seemingly insignificant pieces of plastic, gathered, cleaned, and sorted with care, are exchanged at recycling plants for funds to purchase life-changing wheelchairs.
The journey from collecting these recyclables at our office, lovingly sorting them, and working with Sue Martins at the Sweethearts Foundation has now come full circle. Today, Ntokozo has her very own wheelchair—her very own set of wheels to explore the world.
It’s awe-inspiring to witness how what many see as trash can become a treasure, a beacon of hope, and a blessing. Together, we have proven that even the smallest actions can create magic. So, the next time you spot a bottle top or bread tag, don’t walk past it—pick it up. What may seem like rubbish could change someone’s life forever.
Ntokozo’s smile is a testament to what love, determination, and a community united can achieve. Let’s keep the magic alive.
