In Zulu, 'Zimele' literally means “to stand on one's own two feet. Our programs provide a handup, not a handout so that the people of South Africa can stand on their own two feet.

Our Vision:

To free the rural communities of Kwazulu Natal from the poverty cycle by tranforming each into a 'zimele' community able to stand on its own two feet.

Our Mission:

To create self sustainable Zimele communities through the implementation of programs appropriate for rural Kwazulu Natal which include creating microbank savings groups, establishing and growing microbusinesses, and mentoring community driven non profit organizations.

Our Values:

• Hope - Improving lives through our thoughful and effective programs
• Healing - Empowering a life for tomorrow, not just sustaining a life for today
• Empowerment - Caring for those ravaged by AIDS, violence, and abject poverty through mental and wellness programs
• Justice - Fair and righteous treatment of women and children
• Community - Life challenges can only be solved collectively, not invidually
• Accountability - Individuals and communities are ultimately responsible for their own success