‘I’ve always wanted to start my own NGO,’ says Ms Skhulile Mbatha.

Having earned her Master of Social Science in Development Studies, her dissertation, “Role of NGOs in Alleviating Poverty and Creating Sustainable Livelihoods: A Case of Chesterville Township, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal”, explores the real impact of non-governmental organisations on one of Durban’s most vulnerable communities.

Mbatha’s passion for community development stems from personal encounters with the resilience and challenges of Chesterville. Witnessing the number of NGOs operating in the area sparked her desire to examine just how helpful these organisations truly are for the people they serve.

Her research was timely and deeply relevant. She noted that Chesterville faces high unemployment, drug abuse and teenage pregnancy – leaving many with no choice but to make do with what they have. This reality led her to frame the study through a sustainable livelihoods lens, examining how entrepreneurial efforts such as operating spaza shops, selling amagwinya or mowing lawns help residents meet their immediate needs.

What stood out most during her fieldwork was the depth of community engagement. She recounts: ‘One NGO hosted a career day where youth were divided into groups for deeper conversations. This participatory approach really stood out – it wasn’t just a talk, it was involvement. One initiative opened its doors to high school learners who needed access to computers and guidance for university applications. That kind of support – it’s a step in the right direction. Programmes like those from IkamvaYouth are life-changing.

‘Oh man, I saw so many students get accepted into universities while I was still collecting data. One of the best moments? An elderly woman, living alone, receiving daily meals thanks to Meals on Wheels. That was incredibly heartfelt, seeing real lives being transformed.’

Despite their successes, Mbatha also documented the challenges NGOs face – limited funding, staff shortages, and dropouts in youth programmes. She explained that some rely heavily on volunteers just to keep going.

‘But their commitment never falters. When learners disappear, staff follow up. They care.’

She added that building trust with NGOs had not been easy at first, as many initially assumed she was there to judge their work. However, once she explained her approach, they came on board – and the experience turned out to be deeply rewarding, inspiring her to use what she’s learned to empower other communities.

‘These NGO strategies need to be replicable and scalable. But first, you listen. You understand what the community really needs. That’s how you make a difference,’ she says.

Reflecting on her personal challenges, she expressed pride in her journey, admitting that the research was not a walk in the park. She faced financial exclusion and had to return later to complete her studies, but affirms: ‘I’m here now!’

She is deeply grateful to her supervisor, Professor Oliver Mtapuri, for his guidance and unwavering support throughout the process, adding: ‘I wouldn’t be here without my granny – the love of my life.’