Community members celebrate personal growth after 12-week empowerment programme

A group of drug recovery champions received certificates at the Lighthouse in Bonteheuwel on Tuesday, November 4, after completing an eight-week training programme addressing vital social issues, including gender-based violence (GBV), substance abuse, trauma, effective communication, healthy relationships, violence prevention, and forgiveness.

The training was hosted by Hope Out Loud Community Outreach and facilitated by social worker Neva Smith from the Trauma Centre. The programme aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and emotional tools to support others in their communities while also healing and empowering themselves.

Facilitator Yuanita Isaacs said the organisation focuses on healing individuals affected by various social issues. She said that people experience trauma from many sources, including the death of loved ones, unemployment, loneliness, and low self-esteem.

Throughout the sessions, participants engaged in open discussions, role-playing activities, and exercises that helped them build confidence and resilience.

Many spoke about how the training changed the way they see themselves and others, giving them hope and a sense of purpose.

At the ceremony, the participants’ pride and transformation were evident as they received their certificates.

Some shared testimonies about their personal journeys, while others admitted to struggling with drug addiction for up to 20 years, but said their lives changed for the better after meeting Hope Out Loud.

Graduate Charlene Magmoed said: "I made life a hell for 20 years for my children. I wanted money for my fix until one day I met a woman who referred me to Hope Out Loud.

"I was reluctant, though I went. They prayed for me, and from then on, I never smoked. It is the power of prayer that has brought me this far.

"I'm now clean for eight months, and I am happy. I'm grateful to all those who have been involved in this programme, especially Hope Out Loud and the social worker who was patient with us. I am looking forward to changing other people's lives.

Neva Smith, a representative from the Trauma Centre, encouraged the graduates to approach their life challenges differently.

She said that the Trauma Centre is there to support anyone struggling to cope with difficulties.

“We train people from the ages of five and up. We are there for people. I am willing to extend my working hours for the people of Bonteheuwel,” said Ms Smith.

Councillor Angus MacKenzie, who attended the celebration, reminded everyone that people are all connected in one way or another. He encouraged the graduates to persevere through challenges and expressed his happiness at seeing so many turn their lives around. He urged them to help others and work to eliminate the forces of evil in Bonteheuwel.

Hope Out Loud Community Outreach continues to offer programmes that promote healing, understanding, and unity within the community—proving that change truly begins with people who care.

If you need help, you can contact Hope Out Loud staff members Ursula at 076 154 4759  or Terisa at 061 632 6034.