Building Hope.

On August 16, 2023, a devastating fire engulfed a dormitory at the Harare Children’s Home, leaving behind immense loss and displaced children. The news reached me through social media, prompting immediate action from the compassionate hearts within our organisation. What followed in the following months was not merely a rebuilding project but an inspiring demonstration of community spirit, resilience, and unwavering dedication.

Upon arriving at the site, the smouldering remains of the dormitory served as a stark reminder of the destruction. Amidst the outpouring of donated food and bedding, there was a clear need for support in the reconstruction efforts. Driven to make a tangible difference, I, alongside the compassionate Fayaz, took the initiative to form a building committee to spearhead the rebuilding process, with Turnbury Property Developers at the forefront.

Our initial steps involved deploying a team of skilled professionals, including architectural technologists and quantity surveyors from within our network, supported by ARUP Zimbabwe and C. Kunaka Consulting Engineers for crucial structural assessments. Through meticulous planning, we redesigned the dormitory to meet UNICEF standards, prioritizing the privacy and comfort of the children. The upgraded facilities, featuring enhanced showers and a thoughtfully considered layout, aimed not only to restore what was lost but also to create an improved environment conducive to the children’s well-being.

A dedicated committee, comprising Lisa O’Neil and Fayaz Raham, took charge of a comprehensive campaign to raise awareness and secure funding. Fayaz’s valuable experience in mobilizing communities during Cyclone Idai proved instrumental in garnering support from the Workington Business Community. Social media played a vital role, with posts on Turnbury Property Developers’ pages attracting generous donors. Personal connections were leveraged to secure funding for labour, while the Home initiated a GOFUNDME page to broaden public contributions.

The path to reconstruction presented its challenges. Funding remained a constant concern, and as November approached, the project faced a significant financial gap. Despite the building being roofed, the anticipated $250,000 seemed a distant goal. Recognizing the urgency, the team proposed a temporary loan, with the expectation of repayment through promised corporate donations undergoing internal approvals. Just as anxiety peaked, a generous last-minute donation, facilitated by Jill Day, a Trustee of the Home, covered the outstanding costs, bringing immense relief.

This reconstruction project transcends mere construction; it embodies the triumph of human compassion over adversity. The team at Turnbury Property Developers is deeply proud to have transformed what seemed insurmountable into a tangible reality. We firmly believe in giving back to the community, not only through financial contributions but also by dedicating our expertise, time, and networks to uplift the lives of underprivileged children. The completion of this project marks not just the end of a construction endeavours but the dawn of a brighter future for these children.

We uphold the conviction that every child, regardless of their circumstances, is a valued member of society. Our commitment to the built environment extends beyond physical structures; it encompasses the lives within, and we are honoured to have made a positive impact.

In expressing our sincere gratitude, we extend heartfelt thanks to all donors, acknowledging that each contribution, no matter the size, played a crucial role in transforming this vision into a reality. Together, we have rebuilt more than a dormitory; we have rebuilt dreams, resilience, and hope for a brighter tomorrow.