Write a short summary of what happens in the film.

Not every child is born into a family that offers unconditional support and love. But with a #TouchOfCare, they can rise above their circumstances to reach their full potential. This is the true story of how extraordinary care transformed Lizo Tom’s life. Lizo had lost his son Luvuyo, but his bereavement spurred him on to care for others, inspired by the woman who loved him like her own. Lizo was abandoned at a hospital doorstep by his mother right after he was born. After spending three years at the hospital, he was sent to an orphanage where he met Mama Abisana, a woman who cared for him deeply despite not being related by blood. The support he received from her inspired him to build the Luvuyo Center for Children, named in memory of his late son, and to give care back to the community as Mama Abisana cared for him.

Cultural / Context information for the jury

This story epitomizes a core cultural value in South Africa called “ubuntu”. Ubuntu is defined as humanity towards others, translated as “I am because we are.” It recognizes that we achieve ourselves by caring for those around us, creating a circularity of care and compassion that helps rebuild communities. This cultural value is embedded in every South African’s heart and soul, and this film shows how it enables people to go beyond biological ties and transform others’ lives for the better.

Provide the full film script in English.

I lost my son My only one. The natural order of the universe promises Our children will outlive us. Tell me, what do you do? When the universe betrays you? His name was Luvuyo, which means joy. But when joy leaves, hope follows. And as I cried in my mama’s arms, with hope out the door She whispered, “My son, you’ve been here before.” I didn’t know what she meant to say Until she said, “You lost everything, from the very first day.” You see, I was born premature in a tavern Abandoned at a hospital by my mother Then I was sent to live in an orphanage one day In a village far, far away. And that’s where I met my mama. Mama Abisana who would change everything. She taught me how to love, to care, to sing. And whenever I thought the world would break me She always found a way to heal me. So when I told her my life made no sense anymore She looked at me and asked, “Is yourself all you’re living for?” And what she said next I’ll never forget: “To be human, is to be there for others. Remember that.” She made me realize that though I may have lost my son Nothing’s stopping me from being a father To children who have little to none. And in all this it became clear to me That care begets care, you see And what a wonderful country we could be If we cared for others like family. Look at me, and who I am today. I’m living proof that care heals, Inspires, rebuilds, and saves. To my fellow Africans, let’s not forget I’m here because of you… Be the reason that someone believes in ubuntu.