Nicky Rehbock loves her town

Former Benoni resident and Benoni City Times intern, Nicolette “Nicky” Rehbock lives in Sandton but spends her days researching about and fighting off corruption.

Nicky Rehbock is a campaign officer at Corruption Watch. She has been involved with the organisation since its establishment in 2012.

BCT: Although you live in Sandton, you are no stranger to Benoni. Why did you leave?

NR: I lived in Farrarmere from the time I was born but relocated to Johannesburg to be closer to work in 2003.

I still miss Benoni, whenever I return from trips on the weekend to visit my dad, Stephen Rehbock, I get a pang of longing for the place.

BCT: You lived in Benoni for most of your life. What are your most fond memories of the town?

NR: Benoni is the source of some of my earliest and most happy memories, from having family picnics at Homestead Dam, ice creams from Korsman, going out for a meal at the Squirrels Nest, or a shopping trip to the Benoni Plaza.

BCT: What about Benoni stands out to you?

NR: There are so many interesting people who come from Benoni and have gone on to do great things in the world, and that makes me proud.

BCT: Tell us a bit more about your life growing up?

NR: I went to Tom Newby for Grade One to Three and then moved to St Dominic’s School in Boksburg.

My mom, Margaret Rehbock, taught at the school so we travelled together.

I also have a younger sister, Karyn Rehbock.

BCT: You are involved in Corruption Watch. Tell us about that.

NR: I have been involved with Corruption Watch since it was established in 2012.

As a journalist, I have always been involved in the communications side of the organisation. First as the editor of its website and now I’m their global campaigns officer.

I mainly do writing and research and my current projects are looking at land and corruption issues in sub-Saharan Africa and combating corruption in the asylum system in South Africa.

BCT: You are 35 years old and have many accomplishments. What are your hobbies?

NR: I volunteer at a children’s shelter called Christ Church Christian Care Centre. I also enjoy making my own art.

BCT: What are your future plans?

NR: I would like to read towards a Master’s in International Relations and get some exposure in the international development world.

I want to run the Comrades, write a book, produce enough paintings for an exhibition one day and adopt a child.