WATCH: Activist celebrates Freedom Day by giving back

Activist and leader of Tsohang Youth Project (TYP) Moses Gama dedicated his 43rd birthday to the youth and people battling alcohol and drug abuse in many communities.

He donated pre-loved clothes and shoes to community members who are fighting alcohol and drug addiction.
The former chairperson and honorary president of TYP, Isaac Mavuso, wished Gama a happy birthday. He said Gama always wanted to share with other people.

“It’s a good thing. You are not only saying happy birthday to yourself but you are saying here is my purpose, to make a difference.

“Someone will be happy to receive these clothes today and that could be the biggest gift they ever received in life,” said Mavuso.

WATCH: The former Chairperson and honorary President of TYP Isaac Mavuso make a speech on Gama birthday

Coach Jabulani Luchaba of TYP read a message from the organisation, “As the answer to the question of whether leaders are born or made is still debatable in society. We have come to the conclusion that a leader is undoubtedly born, as we have come across a leader and mentor who is selfless, courageous and will-driven.

“We have realised these are the main qualities of a leader, and a person is born with them, they cannot be taught.”
Gama explained he felt the need to give hope to people who are battling substance abuse.

“We hope individuals who can afford to could adopt them so this initiative does not just become a one-day thing. If someone can adopt and buy them anything monthly or take them to breakfast, dinner or lunch, it makes a difference,” he said.

“But what is key is taking them to rehabilitation centres and finding other skills programmes that can empower and help them.

WATCH: The Community and TYP members sing for TYP leader Mosses Gama.

“This is equally aligned with TYP’s campaign called One Kasi One Treatment Centre, which is a clarion call for adequately resourced in-patient treatment centres, halfway houses and aftercare programmes in our townships and rural areas.”

He said the reality is that a large number of people cannot afford treatment.

“If we hold each other’s hands, committing and dedicating ourselves, we can take this thing to another level and put pressure on our authorities and the private sector because this is not just a government problem.

WATCH: MC of the event Mngoni Moiloa surprised the guests with a short physical activity. 

“The private sector needs to play a role as well, especially the manufacturers of alcohol,” said Gama.

He added that drugs affect everyone directly or indirectly.

“We are affected by drug and alcohol abuse. Stats reveal that SA is number one in Africa and number five in the world in terms of people who are consuming alcohol.

“One of the common causes of crime is drug and alcohol abuse,” said Gama.

What types of programmes do TYP offer?

TYP has eight modular programmes that focus on healthy eating, motivation and campaign talks. Gama said they aim to empower recovering alcohol and drug abusers to resist temptations.

“We do awareness talks whereby we inform people about what they need to know about substance abuse and the effect it has on a person and the people around him or her. We also offer them help or steps to follow once they feel they are ready to quit,” Gama explained.

How you can contribute

TYP pleads for help by donating underwear, socks, clothes or toiletries and/or adopting one or more young people to help them regularly in any way possible.

You can drop off donations at the TYP offices in the Katlehong Family Skills Centre at number 5 555 Moseu Street, Tsolo Section, or 2013 Khotso Street, Nhlapho Section, Katlehong.

You can also make your pledge to Tsohang Youth Project.

Bank details

Bank: Absa

Account number: 407 808 1056

Branch: Germiston

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