Exclusive Interview: Featuring the Founder and Ceo of Hope SA Foundation, Namritha Sivsanker.

Namritha Sivsanker is a strong woman dedicated to making a long-term difference through her NGO work, supporting women entrepreneurs, and promoting economic growth and gender equality. She is establishing a beacon of hope by assisting individuals and equipping them with tools through the Hope SA Foundation.

Just a background on you and how you started Hope SA Foundation

“As an entrepreneur for most of my life, the seed to do charity work was planted within me when I was just a young girl. Growing up in a home marred by domestic abuse, I witnessed and endured the unimaginable pain and suffering inflicted upon my mother and siblings by my alcoholic father. Those experiences deeply impacted me and made me acutely aware of the urgent need for protection, care, and support for women and children facing similar hardships.
The memories of those dark times never left me, and as I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey, a fire ignited within me to make a difference in the lives of others. I knew that I had a calling to provide hope and assistance to those who had suffered pain and to create a better future for them.

Driven by a deep sense of compassion and a desire to bring about positive change, I founded the Hope SA Foundation in 2000. This non-profit organization was born out of a profound understanding of the challenges faced by so many people. I want to offer more than just immediate shelter and support; I want to facilitate empowerment and growth.

The Hope SA Foundation operates on multiple fronts, offering support for people living in poverty, the homeless, gender based violence education, advocacy for the rights of women and children and disasterrelief aid. . It’s not just about providing temporary relief; it’s about empowering individuals to rebuild their lives, regain their confidence, and find their place in society.”

What impact would you like to make as a business woman in Africa?

“As a businesswoman in Africa, I aspire to create lasting impact through my NGO work. I am committed to empowering women entrepreneurs, providing them with resources and mentorship to build sustainable businesses. By fostering economic growth and gender equality, I aim to transform communities and inspire future generations of African leaders.

My entrepreneurial background has played a significant role in shaping the approach of the Hope SA Foundation. Drawing upon my business acumen and innovative thinking, I’ve been able to leverage resources, forge partnerships with other organizations, and develop initiatives that can make a sustainable impact.

Every day, I am fueled by the belief that I can make a real and tangible impact on the lives of those in need. It’s not an easy journey, and I find solace in knowing that through the Hope SA Foundation, I am creating a beacon of hope, helping people and providing them with the tools.

Together, we can make a difference. And together, we can create a kinder society and keep Hope Alive.”

In this ever changing business space, how do you feel about Artificial Intelligence in your space?

“Artificial intelligence has immense potential in the NGO space. It can streamline operations, optimize resource allocation, and enhance data analysis for effective decision-making. However, ethical considerations are crucial to ensure AI’s responsible use, maintaining a human-centered approach while leveraging its power to drive meaningful social impact.”

What challenges are you currently facing as a business woman?

“As a businesswoman in the NGO space, I face unique challenges. Securing funding is a constant struggle, hindering the growth and sustainability of my initiatives. Limited support and resources further compound these obstacles, making it challenging to scale projects effectively. Additionally, being overlooked by corporate entities when they tend to view the big names in the industry as their go to, and this often limits partnerships and access to networks crucial for success.”

How can local businesses partner with the Hope SA Foundation?

“Local businesses can partner with Hope SA Foundation in various ways to support our projects, namely 1. poverty alleviation drive where we feed daily hot meals, gender-based violence initiatives with our goal to open shelters this year, homeless people support, disaster relief, and animal shelters . They can contribute financially by sponsoring specific programs or providing donations. Businesses can also offer in-kind support such as food supplies, resources, or volunteering their employees’ time and skills. Collaborations for fundraising events or cause-related marketing campaigns can also create mutual benefits while raising awareness for the foundation’s work. By joining hands, local businesses can make a significant impact in improving lives and fostering a more compassionate society.”

What does success mean to you?

“Success, to me, encompasses a multifaceted definition. It starts with kindness, the ability to show empathy and make a positive difference in people’s lives. I have learnt through experience that Achieving balance, both personally and professionally, is vital for overall well-being. Good health allows me to pursue my goals and enjoy life. Making a tangible impact in making the world a better place, whether through my work or philanthropy, is a fulfilling measure of success. Lastly, having faith and hope in God provides guidance, purpose, and a sense of fulfilment beyond material achievements.”