Smoking dagga in high school and failing Grade 12 four times, life seemed to lack clarity and meaning for Katlehong resident Thoko Radebe.
However, determined to change her life for the better, Radebe got herself involved in community development programmes.
After seeking employment without success, she reverted back to drugs.
Then, soon after that, a friend introduced her to volunteer work at the Katlehong Police Station.
“I was in a bad space but, with perseverance, I left the drugs, finally completed Grade 12 and, when I couldn’t find a job, I started volunteering,” said Radebe.
She started out as a member of the Katlehong Cluster Youth Crime Prevention Desk and now steers it as the chairman.
Initiated 15 years ago, the Youth Crime Prevention Desks are a joint initiative between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Community Safety.
The desks are based in various police stations and mobilise young people to get involved in crime prevention.
Radebe’s passion for fighting crime and helping the youth to stay clear of drugs was inspired by the struggles in her own life.
“I wanted to help to change the community, but I realised that I couldn’t do that if I couldn’t first change my life,” she said.
“In short, I wanted to be the change I want to see in my community.”
Having experienced drug abuse, Radebe works tirelessly to help young people facing the same problem.
“I can’t describe the daily fulfilment and joy I get from helping others; walking on the streets, being greeted and appreciated by those I’ve helped and also knowing I’ve made a difference in their lives is very rewarding,” she added.
She said there are many benefits to be gained from volunteering.
“You acquire skills for which you normally would have had to go to school, like project management; you learn a lot and grow as a person, and I can assure you that it’s really not a waste of time,” she explained.
Dr Garth Japhet, CEO of Heartlines, fully agrees with Radebe.
Heartlines is an award-winning NGO that uses media campaigns to spark conversations, with the ultimate aim of changing lives.
“Through generosity and giving, we actually end up gaining much more than what we have given away,” he said.
“We share and celebrate our common humanity through being there and helping others in times of need.”
