Ribbons of Justice gives victims a voice

A lot can change in nine months.

For some of us, it might be a period to embrace healthy lifestyle changes or grow out your hair for a special occasion.

For Keshna Schoeman of Northmead, this was a time to grieve the death of her fiancé, Chad Botha, and to align what was once their future dreams with her vision to preserve his memory.

On October 13, Chad succumbed to a stab wound after a scuffle with three intruders who accosted the unsuspecting couple in their home in the early evening.

Sitting in the kitchen of what was once their dream home, Keshna rubbed her hands – covered in numerous cuts – together, glowing as she spoke of her mission.

In recent months, she became somewhat of a social media trailblazer because she used various platforms to speak on behalf of victims of crime while using her profile to educate the public about their rights and the SAPS’ responsibilities when a crime is being reported.

“The current crime statistics paint a bleak picture. What is more worrying is the number of cases not being reported to the police, whether out of shame, fear or feeling intimidated by officers using jargon,” said Keshna.

“Currently, 84 cases of murder are reported across SA daily. It is a staggering amount and even worse for the families of victims, who never face the suspects because 85.5% of cases, tragically, remain unsolved.

“I use my social platforms to tell the stories of those whose lives were irreparably torn apart by criminals. I want their names to be remembered and the injustices highlighted.”

She further explained that she had always desired to speak out for those who could not do it themselves and to be there for those who had come face-to-face with the most wicked human traits.

“Chad was such a caring human being, and I did not want his existence to be tarnished or threatened by my desire,” said Keshna.

“His senseless murder reignited this flame within me, and now I dedicate my life and his memory to speak for those who cannot.

“That is why I founded Ribbons of Justice, which I am registering as an NPO, and will soon undergo training as a trauma counsellor to help victims and their families.”

Veggie garden
When she is not on social media, Keshna can be found in the garden digging, prepping and creating raised beds to establish a community food garden.

With the August planting season approaching, she hopes to transform the garden. It will offer solitude and comfort for victims who regularly visit her home and provide fruit and veggies to those in need.

“When we moved into this home, Chad and I started our veggie garden with the hopes of becoming slightly more self-sufficient while having the pleasure of harvesting fresh and organic, seasonal veggies,” she said.

“In recent months, the sheer magnitude of poverty among neighbours and other community members has become glaringly obvious. I want to be in a position to ensure families have access to nourishing fresh produce and, through kindness, restore hope.”

Pointing out the many containers housing seedlings on nearly every windowsill, Keshna admitted she had immersed herself in this project as a means of self-care and coming to terms with her loss.

“I am not the person I was on the morning of the attack. I have become a completely different person,” she said.

“By throwing myself into these projects, I cannot dwell on the immense loss I am feeling because, with every step forward, I am getting closer to my goal of helping others.

“It is a lonely road at times, often filled with the tiniest challenges that may threaten to derail me, but most of all, it is at these times I feel closest to Chad.”

Giggling, she said she suspected her loving partner might be annoyed with her inaptitude when using his tools, but Keshna was sure he might be proud when she was successful in their use.

“There is something therapeutic about digging your fingers into the soil. It grounds the mind and roots the soul in a place where it can blossom,” she said.

“It’s here I can feel my purpose sprouting and my heart growing stronger.”

To reach out to Keshna or for more information about Ribbons of Justice, call 078 360 0783 or email justiceforchadbotha@gmail.com.

Follow her on TikTok at keshnapheonix.

ALSO READ: Fiancé speaks about the murder of Chad Botha (29)

ALSO READ: FOLLOW-UP: Residents demand wall repairs following Chad murder