Centurion hero wants to take the country forward
“My philosophy has always been to make a difference. Take off your cap and be active; see how you can improve a bad situation. Do what is at hand in your community. Follow the signs and keep up with technology and medical fraternity.”
This month’s Westpack Lifestyle and Centurion Hero needs no introduction to the community.
Yusuf Abramjee (57) is a well-known anti-crime activist, social activist and social cohesion advocate for the Gauteng Department of Arts and Culture. He was a former editor and journalist who were awarded numerous times, as well as the founder of Tax Justice SA, who focuses on illicit trading.
He was appointed in various positions of leadership all through his life. He made a huge impact in the media world and was the drive behind Lead SA Committee, “a Primedia Broadcasting and Independent Newspaper initiative aimed to highlight achievements of the nation and celebrate efforts of ordinary citizens who stand up to lead in the country”.
He also has a weekly TV show, Crime Watch, on ENCA Dstv. In 2015 he was named “Primedian of the Year”, and in 2011, “Adfocus Newsmaker of the Year” for grabbing headlines for his efforts to assist in curbing the rise in police killings. He raised R2,1-million for police widows and orphans.
In 2008 he received recognition from the international community when he accepted three international media awards for contributing to the fight against crime, with particular reference to awards or Crime Line.
He was also a member of the South African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) and became the first person of colour to be elected chairperson of the National Press Club. He joined Talk Radio 702 as a freelance reporter in 1994. Crime became a major issue for him and he was appointed as 702 and 567 crime editor in 1996.
Abramjee also received a National Order from the government for community service, Baobab silver. He received the Communication and Leadership Award by Toastmaster International in 2011.
“My philosophy has always been to make a difference. Take off your cap and be active; see how you can improve a bad situation. Do what is at hand in your community. Follow the signs and keep up with technology and medical fraternity.”
Abramjee started the first “drive-thru vaccination station” at Zwartkop’s raceway entrance on the R55. He suggested this initiative when he met with the Gauteng premier earlier this year.
“We have up until now vaccinated almost 30 000 people for Covid-19, and we have almost 150 volunteers from medically qualified members to community members.
“It is free of charge, we have sponsors, and also use money out of our own pockets.”
Abramjee said he believes “one has the responsibility to assist members of one’s community. We assist in a small way and hopefully contribute to herd immunity. I am absolutely pro-vaccine.
“I was born a news-hound, a pillar of my community, and continue to work tirelessly to ensure I make a difference. Charity work in communities take us forward, as individuals, and as a country. We must constantly seek how to take South Africa forward.”
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West Pack Lifestyle and Centurion Rekord want to thank residents for participating in the monthly Centurion Hero competition to honour those who stand out in their community, those who give without expecting anything in return and who put the needs of others before their own.
We encourage all to continue to nominate heroes in their communities.
Whether it is the man who selflessly helps highlight the plight of residents or the woman who works behind the scenes to ensure a local school runs smoothly – we want to help you thank them and tell their stories!
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