Shontelle Rabothata

What does your company do?

I’m Frésko is a Christian NGO that remains dedicated to its mission of helping others, regardless of it’s religious affiliation. Our organization began by providing toiletries to high school students, but as we identified additional needs within the community, we expanded our efforts to support individuals of all ages through donations of gently used clothing. In addition to our ongoing support initiatives, I’m Frésko also hosts an annual symposium focused on empowering unemployed youth. Through this event, we educate participants on topics such as entrepreneurship, mental health, artificial intelligence, and social media. By offering valuable information and resources, we strive to equip young people with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. Recognizing the importance of providing not only practical assistance but also a sense of comfort and warmth, I’m Frésko also makes a difference by cooking and serving warm soup with bread to those in need every three months. This simple act of kindness goes a long way in showing compassion and care to the most vulnerable members of our community. Furthermore, our organization proudly hosts the annual Beacon Awards, where we celebrate and honor high school students from rural areas for their achievements in various categories. By recognizing their accomplishments and potential, we seek to boost their confidence and inspire them to continue pursuing their goals. Through these various initiatives and events, I’m Frésko remains committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others and fostering a sense of hope and empowerment in our community.

What is your biggest success?

1. Empowerment of Youth: Successfully hosting annual symposiums that educate and inspire unemployed youth is a significant accomplishment. The focus on entrepreneurship, mental health, AI, and social media has equipped many young individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the modern job market and pursue their ambitions. 2. Increased Community Support: By expanding from supporting only high school learners to individuals of all ages, Frésko has broadened its reach and enhanced its impact. The provision of pre-loved clothes and essential toiletries has addressed critical needs in the community, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive necessary support.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

Securing funds and donations is a constant challenge for our NGO, as we strive to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. We rely heavily on the generosity of hard-working individuals who believe in our mission and are willing to contribute to our cause. Without their support, we would not have been able to host our annual symposium, where we bring together experts and community members to discuss important issues and plan for the future. In addition to our symposium, we also provide support to high school students by supplying them with essential toiletries and more. This support not only helps them stay healthy and focused on their studies, but also shows them that there are people who care about their well-being.