At Shu Powders Africa, social responsibility is a value we live by. Our management team had the privilege of visiting Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust, a non-profit organisation based in Hillcrest, KwaZulu-Natal. We spent the day learning firsthand
about the life-changing work they do for communities in need.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this is a place built on compassion, dignity, and purpose.
A guided tour led by heart and experience
We were warmly welcomed and personally shown around the centre by the CEO of Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust, Candace Davidson-Moolman, whose passion and deep understanding of the Trust’s mission brought every programme to life. Walking through the grounds, listening to stories, and seeing the impact on the ground gave us a far richer appreciation of how intentional and holistic their approach truly is.
Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust does not focus only on healthcare, it addresses the human being as a whole.
What does Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust do?
The Trust has been serving the KwaZulu-Natal community for more than three decades, providing essential services that support individuals and families affected by HIV, TB, and socio-economic vulnerability. Their work includes:
• HIV testing, counselling, education, and training, helping people know their status and access support without fear or stigma.
• A 24-bed respite unit, offering care and dignity to those who need short-term support
during illness or recovery.
• Community upliftment initiatives, focused on education, prevention, and long-term wellbeing.
• Support for vulnerable children, caregivers, and families, recognising that illness impacts entire households, not just individuals.
These services play a vital role in strengthening communities and restoring hope where it is needed most.
Empowerment through creativity and enterprise
One of the most inspiring parts of our visit was seeing how the Trust blends care with empowerment through its social enterprise initiatives, including the Woza Moya Craft Store and plant nursery. These projects create income-generating opportunities for local crafters and community members, allowing creativity to become a pathway to independence and sustainability.
The vibrant beadwork, beautiful art pieces, and handmade items represent resilience, skills development, and economic dignity.
Why this matters to Shu Powders
We believe in partnering with organisations that are deeply rooted in the communities they serve and committed to long-term, meaningful impact.
Visiting Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust reminded us that real change happens when healthcare, education, compassion, and empowerment come together and when people are treated with respect at every stage of their journey.
With gratitude
We extend our sincere thanks to the CEO of Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust and the entire Hillcrest team for welcoming us so warmly and for the incredible work they continue to do every day.
About Shu Powders Africa
Shu Powders Africa is a South African chemical raw materials supplier committed to ethical business practices and meaningful community investment. We believe that the businesses we build and the partnerships we nurture should create lasting value for the communities around us.
