AmaZulu Assist Youth in Ulundi September 8, 2009 Ayanda Dlamini’s neighboring town Ulundi found itself awestruck by the return of its new super star striker, at an AmaZulu co-sponsored modeling contest on Saturday. The Kwa-Ceza born striker happily obliged to Supporters’ Coordinator Bukelani Mthembu’s request to accompany him at the former capital of KZN’s finals of the Miss and Mr Zululand Finals, held at Multi-Purpose Community Hall.

“People have been great here in Ulundi. Back home at Kwa-Ceza, it has been amazing. Having been here today too is just what one needs to take to heart an outing with the community,” Dlamini said after the show.

“My former schoolmates from Mnyamana High School and from my club Citizens have all visited me, it’s been amazing”, said the man named after former Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana’s Helman Mkhalele.

Being a qualified Nurse himself, Dlamini knows the importance of teaching youth the responsibility of behaving well and planning towards achieving their future goals.

AmaZulu in this community outreach programme collaborated with local businesses such as Ulundi Spar, ABSA Bank, Pantsula Bites Restaurant, Zululand FM and local salon Isidingo Executive Hair Salon and Mazo Entertainment Productions.

The day’s event was organized by newly formed Thamduzi Events Company with the aim of keeping youth on their toes in community skills development.

Miss Thandazile Mbeje, the co-founder of the company, says initiatives of this nature where people come together to help youngsters are rare and needed to be applauded.

“The event brought together 800 people, many young people accompanied with by parents; 40 teenage contestants - 15 from boys and 25 girls”, said Thandazile, who is a teacher by profession.

“The winners of the contest will be employed by AmaZulu as part time helpers in community engagement projects and in the home games that we hope to play here in Ulundi,” said Bukelani Mthembu.

Article by AmaZulu website journalist Nhanhla Brilliant Mkhathini