It Started with One Child, One Struggle, and One Mother Who Refused to Give Up
Lawley, South Africa (04 December 2025) – In a world often clouded by hardship, there exist stories that shine brighter than any star. This week, my conversation with Linna Ndlovu, founder of the Rising Stars ECD Centre, reminded me why kindness matters. Rooted in motherhood and community, Linna’s journey began with one child whose struggle brought a nation together, reminding us all of the power of compassion.
On the latest episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque, it became clear that for Linna, this work extends far beyond a mere job. Her unwavering passion permeates every corner of the center, where stories of hope and resilience unfold daily. It began when local mothers expressed their urgent need for a safe place to leave their children while they returned to education or work. These mothers needed someone trustworthy, and Linna became that beacon of support.
From Personal Struggle to Community Support
The heart of Rising Stars runs deep, traced back to Linna’s son, Bryan Ndlovu. Many might remember Bryan’s poignant story during Stage 6 load shedding in 2023, when he, living with Chronic Lung Disease, became a symbol of resilience amid adversity. He wasn’t just fighting for his own survival; he was a voice urging South Africans to embody kindness in tough times.
In the midst of prolonged power outages that left many feeling defeated, a simple Facebook post caught the attention of others, calling for compassion. Underneath, a comment appeared from none other than Bryan, sharing his plight of needing to check into a hospital just to have access to enough oxygen during the outages. His vulnerability drew the empathy of strangers, illustrating the essence of local communities rallying together in moments of crisis.
“Imagine I’ve to book myself into a hospital bed, just because I don’t have enough oxygen cylinder to last me that long, while I wait for loadshedding to end.”
Despite battling Chronic Lung Disease since he was 13 and facing numerous health setbacks, Bryan showed an unwavering spirit. His situation inspired many, leading to transformative acts of kindness, including the gift of an inverter from an anonymous stranger, which drastically altered his quality of life.
“We can’t be praying for miracles in our own lives if we refuse to be the miracle in someone else’s when the opportunity presents itself.”
The Transformation of Lives
The moment Bryan received the inverter marked a turning point. It diminished his reliance on hospitals, allowing him more mobility and a sense of freedom he hadn’t experienced in ages. Bryan’s heartfelt response encapsulated the essence of this kindness:
“I have never felt so much love from a stranger. Thank you so much.”
What many may not realize is that Bryan is Linna’s son. Every child at Rising Stars is nurtured with the same love and fervor that Linna devoted to keeping her son alive through tumultuous times. The ECD Centre has become a sanctuary for learning and growth, a space where hope flourishes.
A Humble Beginning Grows into a Lifeline
Rising Stars ECD Centre (NPO 146-641) has been a cornerstone of the Lawley community since 2010. Although officially registered in 2014, its inception was humble. Linna opened her door to mothers seeking assistance in caring for their infants while they sought to stabilize their lives. Even while managing her own challenges with Bryan’s health, Linna made room for others in need.
What began as five children soon blossomed into over fifty. As the center outgrew Linna’s living room, the need for proper infrastructure became apparent. Fundraising, persuasion, and sheer determination led Linna to build a space where families could feel safe and supported. However, the centre is now facing urgent repairs just as the rainy season approaches, demonstrating the constant challenges that accompany such noble work.
Community Recognition and Support
This week, Rising Stars was nominated for a feature on the podcast, showcasing the impact Linna has had on countless lives. Neighbors, parents, and teachers alike expressed their gratitude for her unwavering commitment, desiring her story to be told and celebrated.
Through partnerships like that of Budget Insurance with Good Things Guy, Linna’s tireless work receives the recognition it deserves. Their initiative aims to highlight the unsung heroes of our communities, providing much-needed support to those who selflessly uplift others.
Listen to the Episode: Dive deeper into this inspiring story by listening on your preferred podcast platform, and explore more episodes celebrating the spirit of good in South Africa.
