What started as a quiet, solitary mission by one man has sparked a powerful movement in the heart of Imizamo Yethu.
Mark Xubuzane, a born-and-bred local, has inspired a growing group of community members to take action and restore a beloved long-neglected park, turning abiding memories into a haven of hope for subsequent generations and a source of pride to the people of Imizamo Yethu.
“I have so many childhood memories of being in this park,” he said. “It’s a place that helped shape who I am, and I want my children to experience something similar, but with a different vision, a new mindset.”
Xubuzane’s journey began with a simple decision: return to the park and begin cleaning.
On the first day he stood alone with a broom and determination. “I thought no-one cared. The park looked forlorn, was overgrown, dirty and silent. It felt as if I was doing it for nothing.”
But the next day told a different story. Community members, young and old, started joining him, some offering to help clear litter, others bringing tools or simply lending words of encouragement.
“From that day on I had hope,” Xubuzane declared, some emotion in his voice. “The people of Imizamo Yethu showed up. They reminded me I was not alone in this enterprise.”
As the effort gained momentum and the numbers grew the group realised its work was about more than just grass and garbage; it was about restoring dignity, pride and connection. Children now play where thorns grew before. Elders sit on benches and watch as the space returns to life.
Of course, the road ahead will not be without its challenges. The newly-constituted cleaning-up and greening group was in need of basic equipment, lawn mowers, cleaning tools and regular waste-removal support, and they wish to show that their commitment is unwavering.
They planned to continue the project, hoping to involve schools, local businesses and even the municipality in the long run.
Xubuzane’s message is clear and compelling: “Before we ask others to fix our community let’s fix what we can ourselves. Let’s begin our own journey. Let them see what we’re doing and then ask how they can help.”
This grassroots initiative in Imizamo Yethu is not just about restoring a park; it’s also about building a stronger, more self-reliant community. It is a place where children can dream, adults can connect and everyone can feel proud to feel at home.
