Innovation is an attitude needed to carve out a chance where one sees only dejection.
The intersections along Hendrik Potgieter Road can often have their own ecosystems. From the commuter chaos outside Clearwater Mall and near Peter Road, to the women evoking sympathy with children by their side and the sunbeaten faces of those looking for one last chance or a generous handout.
Also read: https://www.citizen.co.za/roodepoort-record/2019/09/10/councillor-discourages-handouts-to-beggars/
The corner of Jim Fouché Road has a more entrepreneurial feel to it, with instant lawn, a flower planter, bean bags and all types of accessories available within a few metres of the intersection.
Adding some entertainment for those sitting at the red light are teams of teenage boys with crates and acrobatics. Beginning their routine with a greeting to those in their cars, the boys do a choreographed jig with their crates, before launching two of their members high into the air. A quick clap is followed by their walk through the lanes to collect tips from appreciative motorists.
Many would believe that the boys are operating under the boot of a handler but they are adamant that they keep the profits of their work. All businesses have overheads and the boys say they pay a man to transport them to their place of performance but everything above that, which they say hovers around R1 000 per day, goes into their own pockets. Starting at 08:30 and ending when twilight approaches every Saturday and Sunday, the pair of amateur acrobats can do over 300 back flips a day, stamina worthy of any professional.
Also read: https://www.citizen.co.za/roodepoort-record/2019/06/18/motorists-shocked-by-minor-beggars/
The ages of some of the other teams vary but the boys at Jim Fouche Road are aged 16 to 17 and live in the same street in Alexandra. They practise their routines after school but when pressed on which school they attended in Alexandra, the boys were less open to sharing that information. If their responses are as rehearsed as their moves, they execute with a smile and enthusiasm reserved for happy employees.
While creating their own form of income generation, JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla advised against their actions.
“Even though the boys are showcasing their talent and skills, JMPD feels that they are using the incorrect platform and space to do so. Under the City of Johannesburg’s Public Road and Miscellaneous By-laws, no person may lie, sit, stand, congregate, loiter or walk, or otherwise act, on any public road in a manner that may obstruct traffic,” he said.
To make a bit of pocket change or fill an empty stomach, stretching the limits of by-laws could be an easy compromise. Hendrik Potgieter Road is littered with examples of social issues but lack of better opportunities or simple solutions leaves a need to search for whatever alternative is available.
