Former inmate and team help others at Zonderwater

The It is Possible for All team exemplified their dedication to this cause as they arrived at Medium B Centre on November 29 at Zonderwater Correctional Services.

Their visit marked a poignant moment, marked by the distribution of dignitary bags to housed offenders and the provision of food parcels extended to parolees, probationers and victims who have been impacted by various crimes.

The guests visited agriculture and workshops where offenders are afforded rehabilitation skills to sustain themselves during release.

Lucky Mokwena, the founder of It is Possible for All, stands as a testament to the transformative power of second chances.

As a former inmate himself, Mokwena understands the hardships faced by individuals within incarceration.

Motivated by his own experiences, he established the organisation, driven by a mission to support incarcerated offenders and those re-entering society after prison.

“Our organisation has already employed over 150 former inmates as acknowledgement they encounter due to stigma and criminal record,” said Mokwena.

He applauded correctional services for collaboration as this will create opportunities and reduce crime.

Tivani Makasane, the acting area commissioner at Zonderwater Correctional Facility, expressed deep appreciation for the compassionate initiative undertaken by It is Possible for All.

The area commissioner underscored how these acts of kindness symbolise a revival of hope for individuals within the correctional system, signifying that their reintegration and rehabilitation are supported by the wider community.

“Your gesture is significant as it cares by offering solace and support not only to incarcerated offenders or parolees but also to victims affected by crimes,” said Makasane.

As various inmates share their experience in custody, Thabang Ngoepe urged his fellow inmates to engage actively in rehabilitation programmes, emphasising the positive impact these initiatives will have.

“Today I am a Funda Mzansi national champion after choosing the right path,” said Ngoepe.

Mashudu Mutamba, communication manager from Zonderwater Correctional, values and encourages partnering with various stakeholders and the community as it serves as a rehabilitation vehicle.

“Through this partnership, the initiative not only addresses immediate material needs but also serves as a beacon of hope, fostering empathy, and strengthening the fabric of community support.

“Correctional Service belief refraining from stigmatizing ex-offenders can assist in successfully re-integrating them back to the community,” said Mutamba.