From the spotless homes with dedicated house mothers, to teachers who are volunteering their time and skills, Tich Smith’s vision for Lungisisa Indlela Village is blossoming and growing each day.
I clearly remember chatting to Tich Smith in the middle of 2010 about his vision for Lungisisa Indlela Village (LIV). Tears welled in his eyes as he spoke passionately about his dreams for the many abused and neglected children in our communities. Now, a mere 18 months later, his vision has become a reality, and currently LIV is home to 35 blessed little people.
Margo Reid, former headmistress at Umhlanga College and now Education Director for LIV, drove us to Verulam to meet the children and the people who are making this village a secure and safe place to raise a child. Bubbling over with enthusiasm, Margo spoke of her love for the children and the blessings bestowed on this project.
Lungisisa Indlela Village is based on a model, Watoto, in Uganda. The church is the centre of the community, surrounded by homes with a foster mother taking care of six-to-eight children. The school in the village offers excellent education.
Pastor Elliott Sonjica and his wife Dolly are the spiritual leaders, and the church at LIV is open to the community and is well supported.
“We are excited to be a part of this community,” said Dolly. “It is wonderful to be involved with children who have come from bad situations, to love and care for them so they can mature into leaders, having a positive impact on society.”
I immediately understood Margo’s obsession as the pre-schoolers wiggled their way into our hearts. Some of these delightful young people have already experienced more horrors than any adult could imagine, and thanks to love and devotion, plus professional care, they soon settle down.
“Through adult eyes, coming to LIV is a wonderful experience. However, for the kids it’s seen as a loss when they’re ‘ripped’ away from their current situation, no matter how bad it is,” said Claire Thomas, one of the three resident social workers. “The initial days are tough, but once they settle into the routine the transformation is amazing. There is a profound difference between coping and thriving, and considering the deep emotional, and sometimes physical scars, it’s a miracle they have genuine closure.”
Thanks to the support of professionals, the children have access to a comprehensive care package including speech, physio and occupational therapy.
Lee Symons was caring for a toddler when we went to the pre-school. She has Honours in Economics but has chosen to work at LIV. “This place is what our country needs – to take kids off the streets and turn them into productive citizens. I look at it as a kind of economics!” she laughed.
Bheki Nsele teaches Religious Education, Social Sciences, Life Skills and Zulu. “I love the fellowship, the networking of people and the love of the children.”
The enormity of this project is obvious, and the unfailing determination of Tich and Joan Smith who, with their team, have tangibly and dramatically changed the lives of many people.
Tich told us of all the enterprises under way that ensure that LIV is sustainable. It is not a community project holding out a begging cup, but a self sustainable village in the true sense of the word – that has every right to be here, and which contributes economically and productively.
“We are launching ‘The Change Project’ worldwide, initially through schools, where we are asking the ‘privileged children’ of the world to look after underprivileged and orphaned children of the world, by donating R10 a month here in SA, $1 in the USA, £1 in the UK and €1 in Europe. We believe that this campaign will not only sustain the villages but will also teach this generation to be a giving and caring generation as they realise there are children less fortunate than themselves”, concluded Tich.
For more information on Lungisisa Indlela Village contact 031 561 2800 or email info@liv-village.com. You can also visit their website www.liv-village.com.
Story by Lois Kuhle