For three young men, the word ‘community’ means far more than simply where you come from. It means supporting one another, making a difference, creating positive change, and building a better future from the ground up.

Jorell Samuels, Zane Erasmus and Cladwyn Jacobs are determined to do exactly that, which is why they founded the Broken Crayonz Still Color Foundation (a non-profit company) with the aim of uplifting the youth of Fairleigh.

“All three of us were born and bred in Fairleigh, and for far too long we have sat back and watched our community slowly deteriorate. We’re constantly neglected and overlooked by local government, and that has taken a massive toll on the youth here,” said Samuels.

He explained that Fairleigh has long carried a negative stigma, with many people believing that those from the community are destined for failure.

“We have a bad reputation and, unfortunately, many young people have simply accepted that. We’re here to show them they are far more than the labels people give them or the stories they are told. We want them to know they can be more, achieve more and take responsibility for creating a better future for the next generation,” he said.

Foundation creates opportunities for local youth

The organisation has already hosted two family fun days this year as part of its mission to uplift local children. The events feature activities such as jumping castles, face painting, colouring-in competitions and a variety of games designed to encourage creativity, learning and social interaction.

“We teach children how to interact with one another, while also encouraging leadership skills,” added Samuels.

The long-term goal is to host these fun days during every school holiday, while incorporating more educational activities without losing the element of fun.

Bicycle Project

The foundation also plans to launch a Bicycle Project to encourage children to spend more time outdoors while learning practical skills.

“I remember spending hours fixing my bicycle as a young boy. I would take it apart and put it back together again, and I was so proud of what I had achieved. We want today’s children to experience that same sense of accomplishment and rediscover the joy of simply being kids,” he said.

To make the project possible, Samuels is appealing to the public to donate old bicycles or spare bicycle parts they no longer need or use.

Children will be taught how to rebuild bicycles using the donated parts before putting their creations to the test during a community fun day featuring obstacle courses and an Amazing Race-inspired ride through the neighbourhood.

“This will be a great way to get the entire community involved, as they will interact with the children,” said Samuels.

Residents have also started a vegetable garden at the old Fairleigh municipal flats, and Samuels hopes to involve young people in that project as well.

“There is nothing more rewarding than growing your own food and then eating from that same garden, knowing your hard work made it possible,” he said.

He added that the projects are about changing the mindset of today’s youth. “We want our youth to stop waiting for someone else to help them and instead get up and make things happen for themselves. These projects are also aimed at getting children back to being children and away from drugs, gangs and alcohol abuse.”

Projects aim to build skills and community spirit

The organisation is also working with community members to renovate a local park to create a safe and welcoming space where children can play and thrive.

“We are also teaching good manners and positive behaviour at our next event to instil values that will benefit them for years to come,” said Samuels.

He hopes more residents and businesses will support the foundation’s efforts to make Fairleigh a better place for its children.

The Broken Crayonz Still Color Foundation is currently registered as a non-profit company and is in the process of registering as a non-profit organisation through the Department of Social Development.

Anyone who would like to learn more about the organisation or support its work (financially or through donations) can contact Jorell Samuels on 067 025 7651

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