NoniM Lupus Foundation — Established 2016

FROM THE ARCHIVES

From the archives.

A collection of the moments, voices and newspaper stories that have shaped NoniM Lupus Foundation since 2016.

The Beginning of Our Journey – Our First Official Launch (2016)

In November 2016, NoniM Lupus Foundation officially launched at The Loft Guest House in Bethlehem, Free State, marking the beginning of a journey dedicated to Lupus awareness, education, advocacy and community support.

Founded by Nonhlanhla Mokoena, the launch brought together healthcare professionals, individuals living with Lupus, families, friends and community supporters.

The programme included valuable contributions from medical and healthcare professionals who shared their knowledge and perspectives on Lupus and the importance of awareness, understanding and support.

We gratefully acknowledge the participation and contributions of:

  • Dr Khumalo – Medical Doctor.
  • Dr Moeti Motloung – Medical Doctor.
  • Sister Thwala – Nursing professional.
  • Ms Engelbrecht – Administrator.
  • Carol Symington – Dietitian.

We also acknowledge Jocelyn, who courageously shared her personal Lupus journey as the first Lupus warrior to give her testimony at the launch.

Our appreciation extends to everyone who attended, participated, assisted with arrangements and supported the vision behind the Foundation.

The launch was an important first step in building a platform where people affected by Lupus could find information, understanding, encouragement and a sense of belonging.

The occasion also received coverage in the EFS newspaper, helping to extend awareness beyond the launch itself.

As we reflect on this milestone during our 2026 relaunch, we honour everyone who contributed to laying the foundation for what NoniM Lupus Foundation continues to represent today.

Original November 2016 newspaper article documenting the NoniM Lupus Foundation launch

2017 · FOUNDATION HISTORY

Founders’ Photoshoot

founder photoshoot

On 21 March 2017, NoniM Lupus Foundation documented its early journey through a founders’ photoshoot. This activity formed part of the Foundation’s formative period, helping to preserve a visual record of its beginnings and the people behind its mission.

The photographs form part of the Foundation’s historical archive, documenting its development following its establishment in 2016.

6 APRIL 2017 · VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION

Volunteer Photoshoot – Promoting the Foundation

2017 Foundation volunteer awareness campaign photograph 1
2017 Foundation volunteer awareness campaign photograph 2
2017 Foundation volunteer awareness campaign photograph 3
2017 Foundation volunteer awareness campaign photograph 4

On 6 April 2017, NoniM Lupus Foundation organised a photoshoot involving volunteers to help promote the organisation and strengthen its public visibility.

The initiative recognised the participation of volunteers and their contribution to the Foundation’s early development. The Foundation’s historical notes acknowledge LVDL Images as the photoshoot sponsor.

This activity forms part of the Foundation’s record of early promotional initiatives and volunteer involvement.

13 MAY 2017 · CLARENS

Lupus Awareness Outreach – Clarens Marathon 2017

Original event photograph with background faces anonymised.
Lupus awareness at a running event, runner faces anonymised
Foundation awareness volunteers at running event

Lupus awareness outreach during the Clarens Marathon in 2017, engaging with a marathon participant and sharing information about lupus as part of the NoniM Lupus Foundation’s community awareness activities.

19 MAY 2017 · BETHLEHEM

Lupus Awareness Event – Lavender Hill

Lavender Hill Country Estate · The Issue Newspaper (EFS Issue), 26 May 2017

2017 original newspaper article
Lavender Hill awareness event photographs

Event Overview

In May 2017, NoniM Lupus Foundation hosted a Lupus Awareness event at Lavender Hill Country Estate, outside Bethlehem, Free State, in recognition of Lupus Awareness Month.

The event provided an opportunity to educate attendees about lupus, its impact on individuals and families, and the importance of awareness, understanding and support for people living with the condition.

According to the newspaper coverage, speakers included Nelia Steyn, a psychologist and motivational speaker, and Nonhlanhla Mokoena, Founder of NoniM Lupus Foundation.

Media Coverage & Historical Significance

The event received newspaper coverage under the headline “Creating Awareness about Lupus,” published by The Issue Newspaper (EFS Issue).

This coverage documents the Foundation’s early community outreach and educational work following its establishment in 2016. It forms part of the Foundation’s historical media archive and preserves a record of its efforts to promote lupus awareness and advocate for people affected by the condition.

The newspaper article and accompanying photograph are retained as part of the Foundation’s heritage and media records.

16 JUNE 2017 · BETHLEHEM

Youth Day Lupus Awareness Engagement

Local church in Bethlehem · Organiser: Church community

youth day

Event Overview

On 16 June 2017, NoniM Lupus Foundation was invited to address attendees at a church-based Youth Day event in Bethlehem, Free State, to raise awareness of lupus.

The engagement provided an opportunity to introduce lupus awareness into a community gathering, share information about the condition and encourage greater understanding of the experiences of people living with lupus.

Purpose of the Engagement

The Foundation’s participation aimed to educate attendees about lupus, increase awareness of the condition and encourage informed conversations about its impact on individuals and families.

By accepting the invitation to speak at the Youth Day gathering, NoniM Lupus Foundation extended its awareness work into a faith-based community setting.

Community Impact

The engagement brought the Foundation’s lupus awareness message to a church community during its Youth Day programme. It created an opportunity for attendees to learn about a chronic condition that is often misunderstood and to develop greater awareness of the importance of compassion and support for people affected by lupus.

This event forms part of NoniM Lupus Foundation’s early outreach history, documenting its efforts to take lupus education into community spaces and engage people beyond dedicated health awareness events.

Historical Photograph

The accompanying photograph preserves a moment from the church gathering in Bethlehem, documenting the community setting in which the Foundation was invited to share its lupus awareness message.

JUNE 2017 · THEMBISA, JOHANNESBURG

Community Outreach Programme — Thembisa, Johannesburg

Foundation volunteers at Thembisa community outreach

NoniM Lupus Foundation community outreach and lupus awareness programme held in Thembisa, Johannesburg. The initiative focused on raising awareness about lupus, sharing educational information and connecting with the community.

AUGUST 2017 · WOMEN’S DAY

Nqubeko FM Women’s Day High Tea – Lupus Awareness

Historical Events & Community Outreach · Lupus Awareness and Women’s Empowerment

Nqubeko FM Station Manager Nonhlanhla Ndlovu and Noni M Lupus Foundation Secretary Ms Thembile Mazibuko.

In August 2017, NoniM Lupus Foundation was invited by Nqubeko FM to participate in its Women’s Day High Tea in support of lupus awareness and community education.

The event provided a platform for the Foundation to raise awareness of lupus, encourage greater understanding of the condition, and highlight the importance of support for individuals and families affected by lupus.

This engagement forms part of the Foundation’s early community outreach history, following its establishment in 2016. It reflects the organisation’s commitment to advancing lupus awareness, education and community support.

Historical Significance

The Nqubeko FM Women’s Day High Tea represents an early milestone in NoniM Lupus Foundation’s awareness and outreach journey.

31 AUGUST 2017 · LADYSMITH

Transnet Women’s Month Celebration

31 August 2017 | Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal

Transnet Women’s Month celebration photograph
Transnet Women’s Month celebration photograph
Transnet Women’s Month celebration photograph
Transnet Women’s Month celebration photograph

NoniM Lupus Foundation was honoured to participate in Transnet’s Women’s Month celebration in Ladysmith on 31 August 2017.

The engagement provided an opportunity to raise awareness about lupus, educate women about this often misunderstood autoimmune disease, and highlight the importance of early recognition, understanding and support for those living with lupus.

This occasion formed part of the Foundation’s early community outreach journey and its ongoing commitment to ensuring that lupus awareness reaches more women and communities.

SEPTEMBER 2017 · HISTORICAL MEDIA SUPPORT

A Voice Across the Airwaves

SABC Foundation – Radio Advertising Sponsorship

The NoniM Lupus Foundation gratefully acknowledges the SABC Foundation for its generous in-kind media sponsorship, which enabled the Foundation to run a lupus awareness radio advertisement for one month across SABC radio stations.

This valuable contribution provided an important platform to raise awareness, extend the Foundation’s reach and bring the message of lupus awareness to a wider South African audience.

The radio advertisement remains part of our historical archive and serves as a reminder of the organisations that helped amplify our message.

With sincere appreciation, we honour the SABC Foundation’s contribution to our journey.

Historical acknowledgement only; this does not indicate a current partnership.

Listen to the original radio advertisement

Download original recording

21 OCTOBER 2017 · HARRISMITH

Thembile Mazibuko’s Role at the Race

Original five-photograph collage from the Harrismith Mountain Race / Trail Run.

On 21 October 2017, Thembile Mazibuko, Secretary of NoniM Lupus Foundation, represented the Foundation at the Harrismith Mountain Race / Trail Run in Harrismith, Free State.

Her participation served as a lupus awareness and advocacy initiative. Wearing the Foundation’s branded apparel and promoting the message “Be Lupus Aware,” Thembile used the public sporting event as an opportunity to increase the visibility of lupus and represent the Foundation’s mission within the community.

Her involvement formed part of NoniM Lupus Foundation’s grassroots awareness efforts, bringing the message beyond formal educational gatherings and into everyday community spaces.

Through representation, visibility and awareness, the Foundation continues to champion understanding and support for people affected by lupus.

11 NOVEMBER 2017 · HARRISMITH

Harrismith Lupus Awareness & Community Support Initiative

Harrismith, Free State · Lupus Awareness, Community Outreach & Humanitarian Support

Article-only preview of the original newspaper clipping; open to read the full scanned page
Supporters at the Harrismith lupus awareness initiative posing around the Foundation banner
Guests and supporters engaged during the Harrismith lupus awareness event
Foundation team in Harrismith during the delivery of community support
Supporters wearing Be Lupus Aware shirts during the Harrismith initiative

Raising Lupus Awareness Through Education, Compassion and Community Support

NoniM Lupus Foundation organised a lupus awareness initiative in Harrismith, bringing together speakers, community members and supporters to raise awareness of lupus and the challenges faced by people living with the condition.

A particularly moving part of the event was the participation of the Foundation’s youngest lupus warrior, who attended with his mother. They courageously shared their personal story, offering attendees a glimpse into the realities of living with lupus and the practical challenges their family faced.

Their testimony inspired those present to come together and contribute towards making life a little easier for the young warrior and his family.

Guest Speakers & Professional Contributors

The Foundation acknowledges the following contributors for sharing their knowledge, guidance and encouragement:

  • Dr Craige Golding — Addressed attendees on lupus, helping to increase awareness and understanding of the condition.
  • Cariel Piet — Contributed spiritual healing perspectives and motivational encouragement.
  • Amanda, Dietitian — Shared dietary and nutrition guidance to support awareness of nutrition and wellbeing.

Their contributions helped bring together medical education, motivation, spiritual encouragement and nutritional guidance as part of the awareness initiative.

Community Contributions & Practical Assistance

Following the young warrior and his mother’s testimony, attendees and supporters contributed towards practical assistance for the family.

The support raised or collected included contributions towards a double bed, monthly food parcels, blankets and a monthly allowance for one year. These contributions reflected the spirit of the initiative: turning lupus awareness into meaningful action and showing a family that they were not alone.

Acknowledgement of Supporting Organisations & Contributors

NoniM Lupus Foundation extends its heartfelt appreciation to the following businesses and contributors for their support:

  • Free State Stars FC
  • Mpathi & Associates
  • MDC Catering Services
  • ABI
  • Individuals employed by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education who contributed to the initiative.

The Foundation is grateful to everyone who contributed resources, practical assistance, professional knowledge, encouragement or personal support towards this initiative.

Historical Significance

This Harrismith initiative forms part of NoniM Lupus Foundation’s early history of lupus awareness, community engagement and practical support for families affected by the condition.

It reflects the Foundation’s commitment to raising awareness, encouraging understanding and connecting people with the compassion and resources they need. The event remains a meaningful part of the Foundation’s heritage: a reminder that awareness is not only about educating people, but also about standing alongside those who need support.

SEPTEMBER 2018 · RADIO

Taking the Conversation on Air

Nqubeko FM radio studio interview

A radio awareness engagement with Nqubeko FM, recognised by the Foundation in September 2018.

10 MAY 2019 · LADYSMITH

World Lupus Day Gala Dinner – Ladysmith

10 May 2019 · Donga-La Boutique Hotel, Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal · Hosted by NoniM Lupus Foundation

Ladysmith Gazette historical news clipping 17 May 2019
Ladysmith gala dinner attendees
Speaker at the Ladysmith event

In recognition of World Lupus Day, NoniM Lupus Foundation hosted a Gala Dinner at Donga-La Boutique Hotel in Ladysmith on 10 May 2019. The event brought together healthcare professionals, representatives from government departments, distinguished guests, community members and lupus warriors to raise awareness and encourage greater understanding of lupus.

The programme included contributions from guest speakers and representatives from the public sector, as well as personal testimonies from lupus warriors who courageously shared their experiences of living with the condition.

Guest Speakers and Distinguished Guests

  • Dr Thandeka Zulu – Department of Health.
  • Dr Z. Mkhize – Guest Speaker.
  • Pastor Nomalanga Ngwenya – Guest Speaker.
  • Pastor Thokozane Hlongwane – Guest Speaker.
  • Ms M.E. Mokoena – District Director of Education, uKhahlamba District.
  • Prosecutor Thembe Sishi – Distinguished Guest and Supporter (in memoriam).

Honouring Our Lupus Warriors

We extend our sincere appreciation to all the lupus warriors who shared their personal stories and lived experiences. Their courage, honesty and willingness to speak openly helped bring the realities of lupus to the forefront and gave encouragement to others living with the condition.

We also acknowledge the healthcare professionals, government representatives, supporters and community members whose attendance and contributions helped make this awareness initiative meaningful.

Historical Recognition

This event forms part of the NoniM Lupus Foundation’s history of community outreach, public education and lupus awareness initiatives since its establishment in 2016.

You Are Not Alone.

Historical media coverage: Ladysmith Gazette, 17 May 2019 – “Gala dinner to create awareness about lupus”.

1 AUGUST 2019 · MEDIA

Taking Hands for the Future

EFS Issue · Event reported: 20 July 2019

Article-only preview of the original newspaper clipping; open to read the full scanned page

Historical newspaper coverage documenting a community initiative involving the Noni M Lupus Foundation and other stakeholders. The article highlights collaboration in support of children and community development, demonstrating the Foundation’s involvement in community outreach beyond lupus awareness events.

31 AUGUST 2019 · WOMEN WITH A DIFFERENCE

Women With A Difference – 31 August 2019

31 August 2019 · Lupus awareness and women’s health

Women With A Difference event, 31 August 2019 — photograph 1
Women With A Difference event, 31 August 2019 — photograph 2
Women With A Difference event, 31 August 2019 — photograph 3
Women With A Difference event, 31 August 2019 — photograph 4

On 31 August 2019, NoniM Lupus Foundation was honoured to be invited to participate in the Women With A Difference event.

During the event, the Founder and Executive Director, Nonhlanhla Mokoena, shared her personal journey of living with lupus, educating and engaging attendees about the condition, its impact on everyday life, and the importance of lupus awareness, understanding and support.

Later that evening, at the gala dinner, she had the opportunity to introduce herself and NoniM Lupus Foundation, share the organisation’s work and purpose, and speak about lupus and the importance of raising awareness.

The occasion provided an opportunity to bring greater visibility to lupus, share lived experience and encourage meaningful conversations about women’s health and chronic illness.

A moment in our history that reflects our ongoing commitment to education, awareness and empowering women through knowledge and shared experiences.

2020–2025 · CONTINUING THE MISSION

Continuing the Mission

Between 2020 and 2025, NoniM Lupus Foundation remained committed to its mission of raising lupus awareness and supporting people affected by the condition. During this period, the Founder faced significant health challenges, while the Foundation’s recorded work included patient support, telephone guidance, community education, individual advocacy and lupus awareness initiatives.

These years form an important chapter in the Foundation’s history, reflecting the continuing need for reliable information, compassionate support and greater understanding of life with lupus.

In 2026, the Foundation enters a new chapter through its relaunch, building on its established history and renewing its commitment to lupus awareness, education, community connection and practical support.

WITH GRATITUDE

Newspaper and Media Acknowledgements

NoniM Lupus Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to the newspapers and media platforms that helped bring lupus awareness, community initiatives and Foundation events to public attention.

Newspapers acknowledged

  • The Issue Newspaper (EFS Issue) — coverage of the Lupus Awareness Business Lunch held at Lavender Hill Country Estate, Bethlehem, on 19 May 2017.
  • EFS Newspaper — coverage of the Foundation’s 2016 launch and subsequent awareness activities, as documented in the Foundation’s archive.
  • Ladysmith Gazette — historical media coverage and awareness support.
  • Northern Natal News / The Citizen — coverage of the World Lupus Day Gala Dinner held in Ladysmith on 10 May 2019.

We also acknowledge our radio media partners, Nqubeko FM, SAfm and DFM 100.5 FM, for their recorded involvement in raising awareness of lupus.

These media records form an important part of the Foundation’s heritage, preserving the history of its awareness campaigns and community engagement.

NONIM LUPUS FOUNDATION

You are not alone.

GET INVOLVED ︎