Monika Amunyela

For Teresa Mupalu, the founder of Hair by Mulombe, giving back to the community comes naturally through her braiding talent.

Mupalu and a small team of volunteers recently spent time grooming children at Home of Good Hope Orphanage ahead of the new school term. “What inspired me is wanting to give back to the community, braiding is what I am good at, and when a person’s hair is done, it boosts their confidence and morale. I wanted the children to start school with confidence,” she said.

The day was filled with excitement and emotion, especially for the children, many of whom had been eagerly waiting even before the team arrived. Since it was the teams’ first time attempting a grooming marathon, they initially agreed to groom a limited number of children to avoid leaving anyone unattended by closing time.

However, they had exceeded their own expectations. 

“By the time we agreed to finish, we had done far more than planned,” Mupalu explained.

In total, the team braided the hair of 31 girls, washed the hair of 35 children, and cut the hair of 40 boys.

When asked about a moment that stood out to her, Mupalu recalled a moment that touched her deeply: there were two four-year-old boys who rely on the orphanage. 

“Having their hair cut was a huge thing. They came extra early, and mind you, they are only four years old,” she said. This shows that the initiative was not only a haircut but also a symbol of happiness and belonging.

Caregivers at the orphanage welcomed the initiative with open hearts. 

“They have so much love to give; you can see the love between the children, the founder, and the staff,” said Mupalu.

She also highlighted how grooming impacts children’s school experience, stating that poor appearance can affect a child’s confidence badly and could potentially lead to bullying.

Mupalu further confirms that this will be an initiative that she and her team will continue to push, hoping to motivate others to give back to society as well. 

“Sometimes you do not need resources, you just need natural talent and willingness. People have different talents, and they can use them to give back and achieve more,” she emphasised.

-mamunyela@nepc.com.na