Clouds of Hope NGO

17/06/2026

Celebrating Youth Day at Clouds of Hope 🇿🇦

On 16 June, Clouds of Hope came together to celebrate Youth Day, a day that honours the courage, resilience, and potential of young people in South Africa.

The programme was filled with learning, inspiration, and celebration. We were joined by special guests, including Michelle, representing Be Your Own Hero, Bonga Nzimande, a young man from Underberg who shared his journey and encouraged us to work hard and pursue our dreams, as well as Fr Vusi Tyiso, Keryn, and Beth Rowley, who joined us in making the day meaningful and memorable.

We were also grateful to welcome members of the Wesley Guild Bulwer Circuit, who donated 12 blankets to the teenagers at the Halfway House. Their generosity and support were deeply appreciated.

Throughout the day, the children and teenagers proudly showcased their talents. The Clouds of Hope Choir performed, the girls entertained everyone with traditional Zulu dancing, and the younger children brought joy and laughter through their energetic performances. Children from Clouds of Hope also shared what Youth Day means to them, reminding us of the importance of remembering the young people who fought for a better future in South Africa.

The celebration ended with a braai, where everyone enjoyed good food, conversation, and time together as a community.

Youth Day was more than a public holiday—it was a reminder that young people matter, their voices matter, and their dreams matter. It was a day filled with inspiration, gratitude, and hope for the future. 🌟🇿🇦


🔡 Qetelo
📸 Michelle

07/06/2026

Growing Beyond Clouds of Hope 🌱

For many people, Clouds of Hope is a place where children find safety, care, and support. But what happens when those children grow up?

As one of the young adults who grew up at Clouds of Hope and now lives in the Halfway House, I have had the opportunity to reflect on the journey so far.

Looking back, one of the biggest lessons I learned is the importance of discipline, responsibility, and perseverance. Living with other children from different backgrounds taught me how to respect others, work as a team, and appreciate the opportunities given to me. The house mothers, staff, and mentors encouraged me to keep moving forward, even when things were difficult.

Becoming more independent has not always been easy. As you grow older, you begin to realise that your future depends on the choices you make today. Learning to take responsibility for my own goals, education, and future has been one of the biggest challenges, but also one of the most important lessons.

Today, I have dreams for my future. I want to continue building my skills, pursue meaningful opportunities, and create a stable life for myself. More importantly, I want to give back. Having grown up at Clouds of Hope, I understand how important support can be, and I hope one day to help other young people the same way I was helped.

The Halfway House is teaching me the next step in that journey — independence. It is a place where young adults learn to stand on their own feet while still receiving guidance and support.

My story is still being written, but Clouds of Hope will always be part of it. The values, lessons, and opportunities I received here continue to shape the person I am becoming.

Sometimes the greatest success is not where you start, but how far you are willing to go. 🤍

🖋️ Qetelo
📸 Happy face while driving lessons - Sandra

17/05/2026

🚒🧯🔥🫶🏾 A big thank you to all who support our community

11/05/2026

We congratulate Zesizwe Mncwabe on her exciting new chapter and thank her for 15 years of dedicated service to Clouds of Hope.
From House Mother to General Manager, her journey has been one of growth, leadership, and commitment to our children.

As we celebrate her next step, we look forward to welcoming applications from individuals who share the heart and vision of Clouds of Hope. ⛅️

11/05/2026

🔥🔥 Clouds of Hope Needs Firewood 🔥
We’ve been purchasing firewood, but it’s starting to place a strain on our budget 😉
If anyone has cut-up wood from recently felled trees that they would be willing to gift, we would be incredibly grateful. We can assist with packing and arranging transport where possible.
With 11 homes to keep warm and many children in our care, every load of wood makes a real difference this winter ❤️

Please contact:
Michelle – 062 949 2046
Slindile – 060 458 5560

Thank you for helping us keep little hands and hearts warm.

10/05/2026

Our mothers ❤️🫶🏾❤️

03/05/2026

A New Feeling at Clouds of Hope 🏡

At Clouds of Hope, the recent renovations have done more than just improve the buildings — they have changed how families live and feel every day.

For the house mothers, the difference is clear. Small changes like new cooking stoves, tiled floors instead of carpets, wardrobes, and newly fixed beds have made daily life easier and more comfortable. Simple routines, like bathing, have also improved. With the new showers, everything is quicker, cleaner, and even saves water.

But what stands out most is the feeling.

“It’s like we are in a new house.”

With this new space comes a sense of responsibility. Mothers and children are working together to keep everything clean and well taken care of, protecting what has been given to them.

For the children, the changes are just as meaningful. They speak about the kitchen, the new showers, and their beds with fresh covers — things that bring comfort and happiness in their daily lives.

“I feel happy because it looks better and clean.”

There is pride in their voices, and it shows in how they care for their space.

This renovation is not just about new materials — it’s about dignity, care, and creating a place that truly feels like home.

Thank you to our supporter and all families from Germany who donate funds to BE YOUR OWN HERO e.V.. we looking forward for the “grand opening” in November.🫶🏾

✍🏼 Qetelo
📸 mix

26/04/2026

Nosipho’s Story: Hard Work Pays Off 📚✨

At Clouds of Hope, we celebrate moments that remind us what dedication can achieve. One of those moments belongs to Nosipho, a Grade 10 learner at Nhlanhleni High School, who recently came first in her academics. Behind her achievement is not luck, but discipline and sacrifice.

Nosipho spent many nights studying while others were asleep, pushing herself to understand her work and stay ahead. The long hours, the focus, and the determination all came together in this result.

Her journey shows that success is built quietly — through consistency, effort, and the choice to keep going even when it is difficult. Nosipho’s achievement is not only something to celebrate, but also something that inspires others around her.

It is proof that with hard work and commitment, goals can be reached. We are proud of Nosipho and the example she is setting. Clouds of Hope (Halfway House) & Be Your Own Hero South Africa

If you would like to support us, we warmly welcome every donation or your time as a volunteer in our homework and learning programs.

✍🏼 Qetelo
📸 Thobile, Social Worker and House Mom Halfway house

24/04/2026

🥰 Our community in Underberg can be proud that this German association continues to believe in our potential and walks this path together with us.

BE YOUR OWN HERO - Spenderreise Februar 2026

08/03/2026

🌸 International Women’s Day Celebration 🌸

Today we celebrate the voices, strength, and wisdom of the women who shape our home every single day.
The following words come directly from our incredible house mothers at Clouds of Hope — women who guide, protect, and inspire our children with love and dedication. ❤️🏡

“We teach young women to respect themselves first. Confidence comes from knowing your worth, taking care of yourself, speaking with respect, and standing up for what is right. Do not allow others to decide your value. Work hard, educate yourself, keep good morals, and surround yourself with people who lift you up.” ✨

“A strong woman is not someone who is loud or aggressive, but someone who is disciplined, kind, respectful, and brave enough to stand for her dreams and her future.” 💫

Clouds of Hope has 12 cottages, and while renovation work for the entire property is beginning, 10 cottages are currently run by 10 incredible house mothers. Their role is to care for, guide, and nurture our children every day with patience and heart. 🌿

They are supported by our General Manager Zesizwe Mncwabe and Board Member Michelle Stevens, whose leadership helps ensure a safe and loving environment for every child.
Our Halfway House is a special double cottage for teenagers over 18 who are preparing for independent life. It is hosted by Thobile Masikane, who also serves as a social worker at COH and assistant to our General Manager, supporting our young adults as they take their next steps into the world. 🌍

Today we celebrate all the women of Clouds of Hope — the house mothers, leaders, caregivers, and the young women growing into their own strength.

💜 Together we empower women who will shape the future.

🖋️ Qetelo & Sandra
🎥 Usihle Gnarls
🎧 Music for Change