Teens learn life skills

From left are Kamva Dyosi, Sizwe Gxikigxa, Anelitha Nako, Dr Fay Nqobola, Siphosethu Ncwadi, Lisa Mayezana, Abongile Mqobi, Buhle Nakani and Constable Bongeka Mdaka.

Milnerton police station ran a week-long holiday programme for a youth-development organisation. Dr Fay Nqobola founded the Young Warriors non-profit organisation to teach young people important life skills, and the group took part in the programme at the Milnerton police station from Monday July 9 to Friday July 13.

Dr Nqoloba (known as Gogo by the children) says she is a strict disciplinarian but she has found it doesn’t help to talk down to young people.

“When you speak to them on their level, it becomes easier to build them up,” she said.

Siphosethu Ncwadi, 20, said he had learnt the importance of helping others.

“Gogo has changed our lives, and what we try to do is use these lessons here to help others in our communities and pay it forward. I would love to see Young Warriors be all over Western Cape.”

Station commander, Brigadier Marius Stander said they had taught the young people about the criminal justice system, among other things.

“It was also an ideal time to focus on areas of potential vulnerability, such as substance abuse and sexual offences.

“It is hoped that this initiative will prove to be a valuable investment and will be taken home by the participants to encourage healthy family values,” he said.