Collen Huma is the manager of the Brakpan Red Cross. The 46-year-old, who lives in KwaThema, Springs, has been married to Jereline (44) for 20 years. Collen has three children, Tshepiso (27), Tumi (25) and Gontsi (18). He has been at the helm of the local society for the past four years.
• For how long have you been involved with the Red Cross and what sparked your interest in the organisation?
For 23 years. The thirst to help people.
• Describe a typical day at the office? What does your job entail?
I typically start at 8am and run the administrative activities till before noon.
I then have back-to-back meetings and I try to overcome challenging residents.
At the same time I try to raise funds to provide for the needy.
• What do you like most about your job?
I get to serve the community and help people to overcome various issues in their lives.
It brings me great pleasure to be able to bring improvement and change to someone’s life.
• Do you have any hobbies or special interests?
To be honest, my job keeps me very busy.
However, when I do get some time to myself I watch a lot of sport and historical documentaries.
• Who would play you in the film of your life? Why?
Will Smith. I love most of his movies and he’s an immaculate actor.
Besides, the man has looks to fit mine.
• What is the most important lesson life has taught you?
To respect people, irrespective of their nationality, culture, belief or status.
• If you had the power to solve one and only one problem in the world, what would it be and why?
Poverty makes a huge impact, not only in Africa but globally.
Overcoming this problem will keep families together, giving our youth a well-deserved future.
• If you could keep only five possessions, what would they be?
My house, classic and jazz music discs, TV and car.
• What are you most afraid of?
I don’t think there is something I’m afraid of.
• If you could witness any event of the past, present, or future, what would it be?
I would like to witness the South African Red Cross taking its rightful position as an auxiliary to the country.
