Proud Mbekwenian Bulelani Ndzuzo was taken by surprise on 10 May when an unexpected visitor announced him as a Blue Ribbon Kasi Pride Hero.
“Blue Ribbon knocked on my door and I was not even aware that I had been nominated,” he beams.
His nomination was submitted by fellow community members Lwazi Godlo, Dumile Mthakathi and Zikho Sawula, whom he thanks for this honour.
“Lwazi and I work closely in enhancing football development in Mbekweni. When I started as a marketing coordinator for Battalion Football Club, he was always willing to go the extra mile. Together, we gave birth to the Diski Yase Kasi Annual Easter Tournament with other talented individuals.”
He says Dumile truly believes in him and would always say, “You remind me of my younger self.”
“Lastly, Zikho is my partner of four years and someone who has always been my support system and believes in my strengths. These three role players play a very big role in my life and helped me win this nomination because they want to see me excel.”
For Bulelani, it feels simply amazing to be recognised as someone who contributes to his community.
He is a familiar documentary filmmaker currently working on new material related to illegal dumping in Mbekweni. He is also well known for his involve-ment in numerous local projects.
As an official hero, his advice to others entails, “Helping someone else, even just to smile or put in a good word, does not cost a thing. Sometimes it means sacrificing opportunities by referring them to someone else better suited for such.”
He believes that sacrifices eventually bring blessing to one’s life.
As a final pearl of wisdom, he says, “A brand is what people say of you when you’re not in a room. Always see yourself as a brand, and define your purpose irrespective of limited resources.”
