We are all branches of the same tree

Nicole van Rooyen recently founded the non-profit organisation, Dikala Setlhare (Branches of a Tree). She has always had a passion for children. Nicole believes that it is her duty and privilege to help the less fortunate. “People who are born into impoverished households and communities do not often have the opportunity to better their circumstances, unless someone else sees them as an investment and not just a burden on society. I have always wanted to change the world, even if it is just for one person.”
Nicole has changed the world for many people through her tireless efforts.

Dikala Setlhare is currently trying to raise funds for an orphanage in Finetown, Ennerdale. Johannesburg. Mama Linda, 67, runs the orphanage. With 29 children in her care, Mama Linda lives in a converted double garage. Some of the children have to sleep on the floor. Nicole’s goal is to purchase a house for the orphanage. “We want to provide Mama Linda and the children with a safe and comfortable environment, so they can grow and prosper.”

Change inspires Nicole van Rooyen. Her ability to create and share happiness in others drives her. Nicole says, “Even with the simplest of gestures or actions, like seeing a smile where there was none before, is what inspires me.”

On asked about her most memorable moments and challenges, Nicole had this to say, “The one image I will never forget was seeing a little boy, he must have been about three, walking alone with a backpack on his back, to come get food at the feeding scheme we were running in Mogobo, Daveyton on the East Rand, in Johannesburg. My heart broke. No child should have to risk their safety for food. The community had no electricity and no water, yet the dirt roads were clean and everyone was friendly.”

“I think my biggest challenge is to not create a system of dependence. I believe independence and empowerment are the keys to alleviating poverty in this country. Unfortunately, the mentality of entitlement runs deep and is the most difficult to eradicate. Fundraising is a difficult task. Currently, the majority of my donations come from friends and family, but approaching strangers can prove difficult. There have been a number of scams involving charities, and this has caused people to be wary of donating their money.”

I asked Nicole what special power she would want, if she were a comic superhero. She answered, “In the comic series “Heroes”, there was a girl who could make food grow. I think I would want that super power because I could provide sustenance to people. I would start food gardens for people to maintain.”

Nicole advises women who want to run outreach programmes, “The best advice I could give is to try to not do it alone. There are so many amazing women in our communities, doing work not for recognition, but for the love of their people. Find these women and help them. Always ask the people what they need and then try to meet their needs.”