#knowyourbenoni – Benonian promotes youth development and mental health

Monique Low, a lifelong Benonian based in MacKenzie Park, tells how she enjoys being an active member of the Benoni community.

Monique Low in her MacKenzie Park home. She is passionate about foundation phase teaching and advocates mental health.

Reminiscing about life growing up in Benoni, Monique said she remembers her mother telling her “when the street lights go on, [she] better rush home”.

Monique frequently informs Benonians about occurrences in the community and isn’t shy to consult the Benoni Community Network Facebook-group to ask what the community needs.

BCT: Tell us about your family and life growing up.

ML: Being young was different in those days. We could play in the streets and we were safe.

I feel sorry for my son, James (11) that he can’t play outside like I used to.

I remember my father, Tom Bester, had a cement truck and my mother, Tersia, was a sales representative for a European shower door company.

My father was on the road a lot.

My mother quickly worked her way up to management, but eventually opened her own business.

BCT: Where did you attend school and higher education?

ML: I was in Laerskool Verkenner and then I was transferred to Laerskool Northmead.

I attended Hoërskool Brandwag, but I completed matric at Benoni Technical College.

I recently graduated from Khulani Empowerment College where I obtained a qualification in foundation teaching.

In earlier years I worked for two paramedic companies, I completed all three first aid levels and I have completed a basic ambulance assistance qualification.

For now, I am looking for a position as a teacher.

BCT: Are you passionate about the youth of Benoni?

ML: Very much. I have written various poems and a children’s book.

I am searching for a skilled graphic designer to help me with the graphics for the book.

I aim to open a reading centre for children and work with all of the children’s charities in the area.

The proceeds of my book are also going to fund my literacy programme.

BCT: Do you have any other initiatives you are working on?

ML: Pink Lemonade is an informative support group I have started; it is an open group on Facebook.

It is for people who suffer from severe stress, depression and anxiety.

Those who don’t know where to start searching for help, can visit the page.