After weeks of planning, VOC excitedly launched Project 67-Harvesting Hope, in Manenberg Laan, Manenberg on Tuesday, in celebration of International Mandela Day. The day, marked on Madiba’s birthday on the 18th July, is dedicated to encouraging citizens of the world to dedicate 67 minutes to uplifting society.

Following hours of deliberation, VOC staff decided that it was not enough to leave a community after only having provided food, clothes or toys, but to ensure that we have provided residents with a sustainable means to actively participate in the development of their community. Despite the stigma attached to the bustling community, the area, tainted by the scourge of gangsterism and crime, is home to a community full of hope and residents of all ages want to actively participate in the development of their community.

Kicking off at 10h00, residents joined the 10am Express outside broadcast, with Ayesha Laatoe, which was hosted on the location of the garden.

 

Passionate community activist Roeshanda Pascoe spoke about the history of the open pocket of land, which had once been a peace garden destroyed by gangsters.  But she had strong words for those who believed that Manenberg was simply a breeding ground for hardened criminals and drug addicts, emphasizing that Manenberg’s youth had immense potential, but were forgotten by society.

“We want to tell those gang leaders they do not define who we are. Our youth have dreams. They might look dirty but they have dreams. This garden symbolizes growth and renewal. It means whatever bad we have done, you can bury it here. A garden soothes the soul. Let us inspire our children!”

Pascoe, who started the Manenberg Safety Forum has been instrumental in fighting gang violence and drug addiction.

“I remember when gang violence flared up in 2010 and it took me and three others to stop the violence. Today it seems our efforts are bearing fruit,” said Pascoe.

 

Manenberg resident Magmood Adams teaching children annasheed. Adams is working to assist in positively contributing to the upliftment of the youth through reciting.

Its no guess that a project of this magnitude requires all hands on deck, with regular VOC sponsors going the extra mile to ensure that Project 67, Harvesting Hope, is a thriving success.

VOC 91.3fm