Etienne Prince has been chosen as Alberton RECORD and West Pack Lifestyle’s Hero of the Month, winning an R1 000 voucher.
From losing his house, car and being homeless for at least three years, Prince has become a beacon of hope for many as he has steadily found his feet.
The 42-year-old local hero is a good Samaritan who is widely celebrated for lending a helping hand to those in need.
After being actively involved in the community with outreach programmes earlier in the year, he decided to fully focus on changing lives by starting an NPO.
“I registered my NPO, Divine Connections, and we’re in the manufacturing sector. We’ll be manufacturing ladies’ shoes, called Solemates. I received this vision from God, but initially I was involved in a soup kitchen drive and then expanded to running this NPO,” he said.
He said women’s shoes generate a lot of revenue that will sustain the NPO and in turn contribute to the local economy.
“The NPO will develop a new unlearn permanent working skill trade to any individual freely. Through the learning part, the selected individual will receive a monthly stipend for six months while being trained.
“As we grow, we’ll commit to donating shoes to local schools,” said Prince.
Bringing change
According to Prince, the NPO is solely aimed at developing skills and creating employment, as it has already created jobs for 11 locals.
He told the RECORD since life gave him another chance, he wants to inspire others and give them a chance to invest in themselves.
“Because of being defeated in life, people think it’s the end of them and that’s not the case. We’re trying to give those who have failed in other areas of their lives a second chance to better their lives. We accommodate locals who so desire to always have a permanent trade as a career but could not afford to go study due to financial difficulties,” said Prince.
Upon receiving the good news about his selection, he excitedly told the RECORD those closest to him will benefit from the R1 000 gift voucher.
Prince was nominated by Ingrid Rossouw, who described him as someone who has visionary leadership skills and abilities and cares for others.
“Prince’s passion are people, his vision is extraordinary. He also intends to register a PTY company soon, which will deal in partnership with lawyers, advocates and judges of our country. I know this company will bring new job opportunities to existence in the manufacturing industry sector,” said Rossouw.
Should you wish to donate towards the sustainability of their NPO you may contact them via email at solematesdivineconnections@gmail.com or etiennegavin32@gmail.com
WATCH: Local hero Etienne Prince offering advice
