After spending weeks sleeping on the streets of Northcliff, and years battling addiction, 27-year-old Selby Solomon is finding hope in an unexpected place… Behind a sewing machine.

Solomon joined the Tshepo Community Development Initiative (CDI) earlier this year, after being helped by people connected to the children’s home where he grew up. Since then, his days have become filled with gardening, exercise, counselling, and Tuesday sewing classes. “It’s not the end of the world and there is still hope. You must be patient with yourself and learn from others.”

Read more: Threads of hope, heritage, and ambition for Clover Mama sewing student

Raised in an orphanage and later adopted by Lambano Sanctuary, Solomon admits he squandered opportunities and spent years blaming others before realising he needed to rebuild his life.

At the Tshepo CDI, he is learning practical skills while working towards sobriety and stability. More importantly, he says, he is learning patience and discovering that life is about helping others. His message to people facing similar struggles is to not be harsh on yourself. “Focus on yourself, take opportunities when they come and never stop believing that things can get better.”

Also read: Clover Mama Africa programme sews a path forward for Soweto man

Look out for the print edition, where Solomon shares his remarkable journey from addiction and homelessness to rediscovering hope and purpose.

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