Soap star helps Azola
|Published
AWESOME DAY: Azola Papu with actress Nompilo Maphumulo and Ayanda Ndamane
Help is pouring in for an orphaned boy who is being assisted by photographer Ayanda Ndamane.
On Sunday, local actress Nompilo Maphumulo put her star power behind the quest to help six-year-old Azola Papu.
The little boy made headlines in the Cape Times in 2018 when a photo of him imitating public order police with his toy gun and helmet trended on social media.
The photo was taken during a service delivery protest in Gugulethu.
Ndamane reconnected with the boy three weeks ago when they delivered food parcels in the area and learnt that Azola’s mom had died.
The African News Agency photographer asked mense on social media to assist and Nompilo, who plays the character of Nosipho on South Africa’s most-watched soapie Uzalo, responded.
Nompilo was part of a delegation of the Sithembele Mtshotwana Foundation that delivered the news that the boy will be placed at a Curro school in Durbanville with all fees paid until Grade 12.
“It really touched me to hear his story and the braveness that he has,” the actress said.
“I felt I had to be here in person. I am a mother and hearing that he lost his mother really hurt me.”
Nompilo also brought along groceries and toys for Azola.
Lulama Papu, Azola’s aunt, could not contain her happiness and said: “I have a headache now, I really do not know what is happening with me with all the excitement.
“His education for us was a concern but all that now is sorted and I thank Ayanda because all of this would not be possible without him.”
Ayanda said his job is almost complete now: “The only thing that is missing now is sorting his transport to school, which is easy. Getting him proper education was my main goal and I am pleased that it is sorted now.”
Ayanda thanked everyone who responded to his social media appeal when he asked for assistance: “There are many people involved now in making sure that the boy’s future is secured. It has been a wonderful experience to witness people coming and offering assistance.”