At just 22 years old, Pempho Truth Mkupatira stands out as a beacon of hope and determination, leading a charitable organisation Feed The Streets Another Day (FTSAD) into its second year.
Through this initiative, he has found a way to uplift the less-fortunate, feeding the poor using proceeds from a business he has carefully built.
In an interview with ProjectM, Mkupatira shared his deep-rooted passion for supporting the needy, a cause close to his heart.
He said: “I grew up in a less-privileged family and I made a deliberate decision to give back. That’s how the idea of starting a charitable organisation came to life. I launched a business and from the proceeds, I buy food to distribute to those in need.”
His commitment goes beyond just providing meals. FTSAD offers regular food and essential supplies to orphans, depending on the funds generated from sales.
Said Mkupatira: “This year, we have reached two orphanages. As we grow, so will the frequency of our food distributions. We aim to reach as many as possible, but that depends on the resources we have.”
Understanding the unpredictability of relying solely on donations, Mkupatira took a different route by selling merchandise T-shirts, hoodies, caps and slides.
This approach not only sustains the initiative but also empowers those who wish to contribute in a lasting way.
He said: “I wanted to create something sustainable, something that motivates people to help. Running a business ensures that we can continuously fund the mission of FTSAD without uncertainty, allowing us to grow and reach more people.”
His vision for the future is expansive. Mkupatira dreams of having an office, expanding his reach and increasing the impact of his work.
He is also passionate about farming, another venture that feeds directly into his charitable efforts.
Currently, Mkupatira is balancing his charitable work with his studies, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Extension and Advisory Services at Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
His life is a testament to the power of determination, showing that with a clear purpose and a giving heart, anyone can make a profound difference.
