St Anthony’s Training Centre recently welcomed a group of recovering addicts into its skills development programmes following their completion of rehabilitation earlier this year.

The beneficiaries were identified through interventions linked to the Gauteng Provincial Government’s #TswaDaar campaign, a province-wide initiative led by Premier Panyaza Lesufi together with MEC for Social Development Faith Mazibuko to address substance and alcohol abuse in communities.

According to Jimmy Thosago, training manager at St Anthony’s, the centre became involved after attending an imbizo hosted by the DSD on October 30, 2025.
“Seventeen individuals were admitted to rehabilitation centres after being identified. Fourteen remained committed to the programme, and after completing rehabilitation, they were referred to us for skills development. We have welcomed them into our training programmes,” he said.

At St Anthony’s, the beneficiaries are receiving practical training in welding, plumbing, merchandising and diesel mechanics.
“The programmes are designed to equip them with skills that may improve their employment prospects and support their reintegration into society.

“We are supporting them because they are willing to help themselves. If they remain disciplined and completely free from substance abuse, we will assist with possible placement in workplaces,” Thosago said.

He added that the centre continues to work closely with DSD and has the capacity to assist more individuals who require rehabilitation and skills training.

Among those currently enrolled is Sheikha Allis, who shared that her substance use began after experiencing abuse during her upbringing.
“I was abused and later went to stay with my boyfriend. That is when I started using drugs. I was not in contact with my family, and I was basically alone,” she said.

In October last year, her aunt encouraged her to join a government mass intake programme for rehabilitation. She spent three months in a rehabilitation facility before being referred to St Anthony’s for further development.
“While I was in rehab, I made sure I did my absolute best,” she said.

She is now training in merchandising and hopes to secure employment in the future to provide for her children.
“The programme can be a bit difficult because we were used to not doing anything, and now we have to use our minds again.”

Allis added that she wants to become better and work for her children.
She also expressed gratitude for the opportunity and said she would never take it for granted.