Story by Innocent Nxumalo
Every community has a rare breed of selfless heroes and heroines who give all they have for the public good. However, such outstanding individuals are seldom recognised.
It is against this background that people from Beitbridge considered conferring special statuses to community champions as part of efforts to promote principles of Ubuntu and social cohesion in their society.
Elderly community champions believe the spirit of Ubuntu should be a guiding principle for everyone to realise a better world.
An elderly champion told the ZBC News, “It is good to be recognised while you are still alive, I hope young people will be inspired to work for the public good.”
Another said, “Being selfless does not mean working for awards or praises, but just creating smiles on people’s faces must be gratifying.”
Beitbridge businesspeople who organised the people’s awards said the emotionally touching experiences shared by some community champions will instil positive principles and values in young people.
“We are happy that this event managed to drive a point home. All we want is to promote social cohesion. We allowed people from Beitbridge to nominate and vote for those who made a difference,” noted Beitbridge Business Association chairperson, Dr Anna Muleya.
Some of the community champions included those who dedicated their lives to fighting social ills such as drug and substance abuse, some who held public offices with integrity and those who have been consistent in striving for community emancipation.
