In the second episode of the Ubuntu Uplift Series, Zanele Maphosa-Makombe and Ashley Green-Thompson delve into the profound essence of philanthropy within South Africa. Zanele's journey is rooted in her upbringing, where the concept of giving was instinctive, as influenced by theselflessness of her parents. A significant turning point occurred during her gap year in rural Zimbabwe, where she engaged with local high school students and young mothers.
This experience reinforced her understanding of authenticphilanthropy, which is acknowledging the needs of others and being proactive to help. Similarly, Ashley Green’s early foundation in giving was established by his father, the only Black medical doctor in their town. His father’s commitment to an altruistic practice, often providing affordable medical care out of his own pockets, inspired Ashley to pursue a career in service.
He learned that philanthropy is not a transactional endeavor but rather a commitment to empowering others without the expectation of reciprocity.
Both Ashley and Zanele emphasize the importance oflistening. Ashley reflects on how philanthropy, in its current state, often overlooks the actual needs of the communities it intends to help, focusing instead on statistical reports and external assumptions. He insists that listening to the people is essential in redefining philanthropy from mere “charity”to a force for change. He states that it is not enough to treat the symptoms of poverty; one must engage with the root causes. Zanele echoes this sentiment, underscoring how philanthropy should be about seeing each other,recognizing the deep-seated needs within communities, and moving away from the donor-recipient dynamic to one of equal partnership and mutual respect.
The duo also confronts the practical challenges theyface in South Africa, from language barriers to the complexities of xenophobia. They acknowledge that philanthropy is not about simply imposing solutions, butabout amplifying the efforts already in motion within communities. Their work, which includes small grants to local initiatives such as the Apostolic Women Empowerment Trust in Zimbabwe and agricultural projects in Cape Town, aims toempower rather than dominate. They challenge both themselves and their peers to consider whether their approach to philanthropy truly strengthens communitiesor merely extracts from them and boosts their self-perceptions.
Philanthropy is not about a one-time handout, but about creating lasting partnerships that promote autonomy, sustainability, and genuine solidarity wherepeople work in harmony towards the common good.
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