‘My Hands Are My Gold’ – The Heart of Mbekweni’s Ncedisizwe Centre

In Mbekweni, a place where strength and purpose come together, Mama Mirriam Toni’s story is one of resilience, grace, and the power of community. Her journey is not defined by hardship alone, but by the transformative work she has done to reshape lives and inspire others.

From a young age, Mirriam has been moved by the needs of those around her. She shared what little she had — clothes, shoes and food — with children who had none. “I was always giving,” she recalls. This spirit of generosity was guided by a prophecy spoken over her: “This child will be a shelter of people.” That vision would go on to shape her life’s work.

Today, Mirriam is the heart of the Ncedisizwe Centre in Mbekweni, a community-driven initiative focused on providing practical skills, care and empowerment. Through welding, mosaic art, sewing, and popcorn sales, she has created opportunities that restore dignity and help individuals build self-sufficiency. On weekends, Mirriam runs a Shisanyama to fund the centre’s daily needs, ensuring that every meal served helps a child in need.

One of her proudest achievements is the Ncedisizwe All Stars, her soccer team, which keeps children active and inspired. When the team was banned for three years due to a flat ball, she didn’t give up. “I told the boys, ‘Every child is a star. You shine where you are in South Africa’.” This lesson in resilience is a cornerstone of the centre’s mission.

A pivotal moment came in 2011 when Mirriam was recognised by the Clover Mama Afrika Trust. Their encouragement led her to master sewing and welding. “I was the best student within two weeks,” she says. That recognition gave her not just skills, but also the confidence to dream big again.

What she seeks now is not sympathy, but support and partnership. With the right visibility and resources, the Ncedisizwe Centre has the potential to become a thriving, self-sustaining hub of empowerment in Mbekweni. Mirriam is ready to take the next step, and she is eager to collaborate with those who share her vision.

“Your gift is your gold,” she says. “Use it to build the future.”

If you are interested in supporting or partnering with Mirriam, please contact her directly at 072 738 9274. Together, we can help the Ncedisizwe Centre grow and continue to make a meaningful difference in the Drakenstein community.