Giving back and adding value to the community are but a fraction of what Nathanael Padayachee does in his spare time.
Backed by his entire team at Nate’s Car Sales, they have been an integral part of the East London community for 15 years.
The delearship provided a vehicle to local pastor Pieter Booysens who is now enroute to Zimbabwe via Johannesburg where he will meet up with other good Samaritans to help those displaced by Cyclone Idai.
“This is special and a blessing as he’s doing something great by assisting those displaced. We put in a full tank of fuel and some clothes to take along as well,” Padayachee said.
In addition to helping victims of the cyclone, Nate’s Car Sales is also running a book drive which will come to a close at the end of May. Together with ITEC Early Education, they have managed to collect quite a number of books so far.
“We don’t approach charities but rather go out into the community and see what it is they need. It has more meaning and affects them in a positive manner,” he said.
Starting his business from his garage, Padayachee has assisted the community from his personal capacity, and now his staff has followed his example.
“This has grown a lot, and we have various ongoing drives. On May 1 we will be starting with our winter drive and collecting pre-loved clothes and blankets,” he said.
At the time of going to print, Booysens was in Johannesburg and due to arrive in Zimbabwe over the weekend.
Drop-offs for the book drives can be made at 106 Main Road in Amalinda in East London.