Sharing sorrow and joys

Sharing sorrow and joys Delores Sacks has worked alongside Joe for 15 years and knows that Girls & Boys Town will remain a priority for Joe.

Joe was the first person I met at Boys Town – as it was then called. I’ve learned so much from him – and from his example. He’s always been the epitome of efficiency and honesty and he cares about his colleagues.

Although always busy, ‘the boss’ had an open door and made time to listen. We’ve shared working hours and social times – especially when Joe was the chef at braais!

I found a friend in Joe. The journey we’ve travelled together will always be important to me.

My wish is for Joe to enjoy his retirement with his wife, Lorraine – and to do all the things he’s never had the time to do because Girls & Boys Town always came first.

Boys garden for oldies

Seven boys from Girls & Boys Town Kagiso- Randfontein proved how big their hearts are when they volunteered to clean up and improve the grounds of the Mohlakeng Old Age Home.

They impressed the residents of the home – and community – who were thrilled with the boys’ efforts. Well done, team!

Fate smiles on Petros

It was Petros Sithole’s lucky day when Vusi Magadana, Corporate Affairs Manager at Harmony Gold Mining, paid a visit to Girls & Boys Town Kagiso-Randfontein. Petros was showing the guest around the centre and the two were discussing Petros’s plans after matric.

Vusi made Petros an offer that would steer the young man towards a bright future – on condition that he passed matric.

Petros did pass – and true to his word, Vusi arranged a learnership for him at Harmony Gold Mining – as well as accommodation in the company’s guest house. Now, Petros is studying marketing, and is hard at work in Harmony’s marketing department.

Into their heads, through their hearts

What is it that inspires people to work at Girls & Boys Town? Three of our newest principals offers insight.

Sydney Mabaso, Principal of Girls & Boys Town Kagiso-Randfontein, has an impressive background in various aspects of youth development and care – so he’s no stranger to the demands of this work.

Except that ‘the news that I was working at Girls & Boys Town really scared my kids!’ he muses.

‘I found Girls & Boys Town to be a different world, with all the support and passion for the betterment of youth. There is never a dull moment and every day is filled with challenges.

‘Most of the boys are very receptive to our role in their lives and we need to make positive use of this window of opportunity.’

Girls & Boys Town Magaliesburg’s Principal, Merilyn Pick, relocated from Cape Town to take up what she describes as ‘a calling’.

‘As parents, we want to protect our kids, but nobody can protect them from life and its challenges. The only thing we can do is to prepare them,’ says Merilyn.

‘The Peer Group System is a wonderful tool. It’s so rewarding to see how the boys work to get promoted in the system.

‘In 10 months this job has helped me grow so much, as a parent and professional. And the boys keep me on my toes!’

Cynthia du Plessis is Principal of our Cape Houses – which includes our ‘girls only’ Alpha Family Home.

‘Contact with the youth is often overwhelming as they’re all vying for one’s attention, especially the girls. But many of the children have a great sense of humour, which makes working with them great fun!

‘It’s rewarding to see family meetings where the youngsters are empowered by making their own responsible decisions – and to see the youth blossom as they use their leadership skills as managers in the houses.

‘One exciting aspect of this work is the scope for creativity. The children are individuals, each completely different, and one has to try to bring out.