Klipspruit West Secondary School last week had a substance abuse and rape awareness day where pupils learnt the importance of staying away from negative influences.
A group of pupils showed the consequences of dealing in drugs, theft and rape – arrests and jail time.
High schools were invited to attend.
“We aim to bring change and together as a school, we can do that,” said Louisa Klassen.
Former-drug users and lolly lounge owners spoke to pupils and told them that they should respect themselves.
“Drugs destroy the destiny that is locked up inside of you.
“The choices you make today will influence where you are going to tomorrow,” said Jonathan Stainbank.
Shaun Hendricks, who says he owned a lolly lounge, said to overcome all the bad going on the community, one must do good.
Many former-users told their stories of while living in lolly lounges and addicted to drugs.
They chose to hijack, steal and commit fraud to support their habits.
While on drugs, many of their families rejected them.
“I started using drugs when I was 15, dropped out of school at Grade 11 and fell pregnant.
“To support myself I worked in a strip club,” said Gillian who was a victim of human trafficking.
She told pupils to be careful and wise about the decisions that they make.
Speakers told pupils to be the change they want to see in their lives and to be a leader not a follower.
