As a gospel singer from Toekomsrus, Ruth Philemon believes that gospel music has the power to bring hope and change youngsters’ lives.

Ruth, 46, who was introduced to the genre at the tender age of 12, said after seeing many young lives in shambles, she took it upon herself to motivate young people – especially those who have lost focus and ended up not caring about themselves and became lost.

Growing up, my mother was quite a big inspiration for us to get into singing. My three sisters and I used to sing in church and were part of the choir, which made my love of gospel grow,” Ruth said.

As they went their separate ways, Ruth held onto her love for gospel. She has shared the stage with PJ Powers, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Benjamin Dube, Felicia Marion and Steve Kekana, many of whom are movers and shakers in the industry.

Ruth said she believes God has given her the talent to sing gospel and uplift others. She added that people easily get depressed and resort to behaviour that is extremely destructive.

“As soon as people cannot get things they want, they lose hope, feel depressed, get up to no good and try to find comfort in drugs and alcohol. As a member of modern society I have a responsibility to eradicate these ills.”

Ruth said a big part of what she wants to do is seeing all young people become the best they can be with the talents they have. “When someone believes in you, you really can go far,” Ruth added.