A beautiful inspiring story of a man named Gibson Nzimande was brought to light when Metro FM’s The Touch Down radio show host, Thabo “Tbo Touch” Molefe invited the former homeless man who obtained his degree a few weeks ago.
On his mission to highlight amazing things happening in our communities and celebrate ordinary South Africans who are rising above life’s challenges, Tbo Touch shared the story of Gibson, who lived under a bridge while he attended classes at the University of Johannesburg.
Gibson recently went live on the afternoon drive show for an interview with Tbo Touch, leading to him say:
“If this story doesn’t inspire you, you need to be recreative.”
Gibson lived on the streets for many years, only surviving by recycling waste. After his story was published in the papers, Mzansi citizens showed him why we are known for our warmth (ubuntu), helping him go back to university and later graduating with a Masters degree. Asked how many years he was homeless by the host, Gibson said five years.
Sharing the post about Gibson on his social media, Touch began his post by quoting a bible scripture, captioning it:
“For I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans to prosper and not to harm you”. Jeremiah 29:11.”
He continued:
“When your rent is due facing eviction. He says I have plans to prosper you. When your medical bills are unpaid, the Lord says I’m going to use you to heal the nation. I don’t care how dark your situation is right now! Gibson slept under the Grayston Ave bridge, went to University of Johannesburg, washing in school’s public toilets. Collecting scrap metal and recycling plastics refuse! Today our brother is a Masters graduate enrolling for his PHD at one of the most prestigious universities in Africa. ??#whatatimetobealive.”
View this post on Instagram
Also see: WATCH: Cassper Nyovest and son’s cute boxing match