At Love Notties, our projects are powered by people whose courage, resilience, and vision inspire us every day. One such person is Thandeka Zondi, our Recycling Team Leader, whose journey is a powerful reminder of strength and hope.
A Journey of Resilience
Thandeka grew up in Impendle and attended Asithuthuke Combined School in Nottingham Road. Bright and ambitious, she once dreamed of becoming a doctor. Though life’s challenges meant she couldn’t finish school, her determination has carried her forward in remarkable ways.
Raised by her grandmother after losing her mother at just 10 years old, Thandeka learned early on the value of family, responsibility, and perseverance. Now, as a mother of two, she pours that same love and strength into raising her own children.
“My biggest wish is to build a home for my children and see them finish school, so they can study after and live the dreams I couldn’t.” – Thandeka
Life Today
Thandeka’s life is a balancing act of work, motherhood, and keeping her family safe. Living in Stendeni for work, she manages on limited resources—keeping food safe in an old fridge to protect it from rats, walking her children to play nearby where she can keep a watchful eye, and traveling home to Impendle at the end of each month to see family.
Despite the hardships, her days are filled with love, music, and moments of joy with friends who share meals and laughter in her community.
Her Vision for Recycling
At the Love Notties Recycling Centre, Thandeka leads with energy and purpose. She sees recycling not only as a way to care for the environment but also as a source of dignity and opportunity for local families.
Her dream is to see the centre grow—creating more permanent jobs, and one day even processing or repurposing materials right here in Nottingham Road.
“I want our Recycling Centre to become a bigger place, where more jobs are created and we can make new things from what people throw away.” – Thandeka
Why We Celebrate Her
Thandeka embodies the spirit of Love Notties: resilience, hope, and the belief that a brighter future is possible when we work together. Her story is not just about overcoming challenges but about dreaming big and inspiring others to do the same.
We are deeply grateful for her leadership, her vision, and the heart she brings to both her community and our planet.
Join Us in Supporting Thandeka’s Vision
Every bottle, can, or piece of paper you recycle helps turn dreams into reality. By supporting the Love Notties Recycling Centre, you’re not only reducing waste but also helping create opportunities for families like Thandeka’s.
Together, we can grow something beautiful. 
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