Cynthia Sindiswa Mancotywa

What does your company do?

Thenjinosi reduce malnutrition, improve medication adherence, increase household income, and promote environmental sustainability, with a focus on children and youth living with disabilities. We reduce malnutrition and defaulting on HIV/AIDS and TB medication, through creating Back Yard Gardens. We increase household income through craft work and sustainable gardening. We promote environmental care by eliminating illegal dumping sites and rehabilitating backyard gardens. We provide vegetable seedlings and gardening training to vulnerable households and institutions.

What is your biggest success?

Testimonials and Case Studies Schools report improved learner nutrition and motivation to engage in environmental activities. Caregivers at Special Day Care Centres note improved health and engagement among children with disabilities. Beneficiaries share stories of returning to medication adherence and starting small businesses from garden produce.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

The Challenge of Being a Community Organisation: Despite its impact, Thenjinosi itself is vulnerable. As a small community organization, it operates with minimal funding and relies heavily on volunteerism and local goodwill. The demand for support far exceeds available resources. Thenjinosi must balance its own sustainability with the urgent needs of the centres and households it serves-often stretching itself thin to ensure no child is left behind. Yet, this position is also Thenjinosi’s strength. Its deep local roots foster trust, cultural relevance, and a nuanced understanding of vulnerability. Thenjinosi’s interventions are not top-down but co-created with beneficiaries, ensuring dignity and agency for children and youth with disabilities.