PHATHANANI MBATHA ON INVESTING IN PHILANTHROPY AUTHENTICALLY
Written by Katlego Kganyago
“Queer people also need to be known for doing good and not get lost in the matrix of just looking good.” Phathanani Mbatha said this confrontational line at his intimate yet captivating charity event held at Leamogetswe Safety Home for disadvantaged youth in Saulsville, Tshwane. I was invited to the event and I left a changed gay man because of the heart-warming programme, as well as the striking authenticity of Chef Phathanani Mbatha, founder of Mothupha Foundation, a non-profit organisation that aims to provide essential resources for marginalised youth.
In my dream journal and bucket list, I wrote about starting and leading a foundation. I had scrapped it off and in some way, forgot about it because I was not inspired yet until this event. I always had a giving heart, but I did not realise that I had to be authentic about my offering instead of it being just a public relations stunt for my career path in the arts. When I met Phathanani, everything changed and I had insight that philanthropy ideas have to come organically. The Mothupha Foundation’s Annual Mentorship Day is dedicated to provide guidance services for youth with learning and health support products such as: sanitary needs, toiletries, accessories, stationery, life-coaching and motivational speaking.
Phathanani’s speech came from the heart and it was touching. One of the lines from Phathanani’s speech: “This is dedicated to you mom, I forgive you for leaving me.” As I reflected from this powerful line, a thought came to light, “Through loss, we learn and gain more compassion for others.” Phathanani is no exception to this newfound philosophy I tried to conceptualise in a sentence. Some call it soul mission. Some call it life purpose or one’s calling. You need to have a big heart when helping others because it is sometimes not a once-off event but a lifelong commitment, and Phathanani is living proof as he works with several schools around Tshwane as well as other homes around Gauteng. Phathanani keeps mentioning that if he were to share his story, he would not finish – but we know that the hardships he has been through has led him to this point of implementing philanthropic work authentically.
One of the prominent speakers, Unathi Nkayi who I admire, mentioned that self-empowerment is the first foundation to live a fulfilling life free of regrets. Unathi emphasised that through self-love and constantly improving one’s career development is a solid foundation for success. Thami Dish, who charmed everyone with his charisma, spoke about self-confidence: “Always walk in as a winner and speak great things to existence.” Unathi and Thami’s words have a golden thread of practising the law of attraction epitomised by The Secret, Scientology and universal energy. Another notable speaker, Ofancy emphasised that it is okay to aspire higher and not let circumstances to define your life. To be our greatest versions, we need to believe in our dreams and purpose.
By profession, Phathanani Mbatha is a government official and he mentioned a time where he was under investigation for pursuing business and philanthropic interests. He confidently said that: “I closed down my businesses as a result, but I had to compromise for the foundation because it is close to my heart, even though I am self-funding organisation.” I realised that serving your life purpose takes a great deal of guts and faith that everything will work out eventually, as your efforts will attract those who vibrate higher with you. Phathanani loves cooking, and is a queer man of many talents including hosting his inspirational talk show Munchies And Thoughts on YouTube.
The Mothupha Foundation’s Annual Mentorship Day was co-sponsored by Phathanani’s colleagues, life-long friends and family members. They are respectively Thatelo Attorneys, Accelerit and Ofancy Make-up.
“Charity is a supreme virtue, and the great channel through which the mercy of God is passed on to mankind. It is the virtue that unites men and inspires their noblest efforts.” – Conrad Hilton
