Harbinder Singh Sethi is a man who lives his faith through service to others. I’ve been proud to stand by his side over the years and see his dreams manifest.
I’ve known Mr. Sethi for many years, even before the Gurudwara Sahib of Johannesburg came to be. His passion for building this place of worship was encouraging to witness firsthand. When objections were raised by sceptical residents, Mr. Harbinder Singh Sethii never lost heart. He knew how much the Gurudwara Sahib could mean for people searching for community, purpose, and peace. And he fought for it tirelessly. I was inspired to join his cause, volunteering my time and voice to secure the approvals needed.
That’s the Harbinder Singh Sethi I know. A man of vision and action. Since then, I’ve seen him bring that same spirit to countless noble causes.
It was back in 1999 when I established the MKIVA Humanitarian Foundation in Bolotwa Village, Idutywa, Eastern Cape. MKIVA Humanitarian Foundation was established in April 1999 with the sole purpose of focusing on rural upliftment, education, recreation and sports for those in the margins of society as well as making critical intervention to the indigents by way of supporting them with food supplies and other relevant essentials. Mr. Sethi has become one of our most stalwart allies. His generous contributions have helped build the foundation we needed to run our programs, expand our reach and truly change lives. But even more than money, Mr. Sethi has given us hope.
During his own times of grief, Mr. Sethi has thought of others in need. In a beautiful act of compassion, he donated all the funds collected during his father’s passing to the foundation. In honour of his father’s memory, Mr. Sethi and his family prepared large food packets, distributing them among the impoverished. These groceries sustained them for three months, giving them the strength and hope to persevere.
He also devotes himself to uplifting young, aspiring sportsmen in underprivileged areas across South Africa. Through the MKIVA Foundation, he has been providing them with essential resources, from soccer equipment to netball jerseys and athletic kits. Thanks to his assistance, we’re able to organise tournaments that inspire and motivate these passionate athletes. I’ve seen their faces light up when these donations arrive. A gifted soccer ball may seem simple, but for a child with big dreams, it represents a world of possibilities.
Now, his most ambitious goal beckons – building a hospital for the underserved. This hospital will offer free or subsidised care to those most in need. I’m eager to support him in this monumental endeavour, just as I’ve supported him before. With dedication like his, and a heart so big, I know that one day soon this hospital will rise. Its doors will swing wide open for all seeking care.
I am so grateful for partners like Mr. Harbinder Singh Sethi who understand that humanity prevails when we all give back. His selfless spirit motivates me to keep pressing forward. There are always more people to serve and more good to be done.
Zolani Mkiva is a member of Parliament and serves as Chairperson of Select Committee on Public Enterprises and Communications at the African National Congress (ANC). He also served as President Nelson Madelas poet laureate and cultural advisor.