By Sitha Maliwa:
In a powerful demonstration of mentorship and community support, businessman Mlindelwa “Man B” Tyekana visited the John X Merrimen Youth Centre in Cambridge, Buffalo City, recently, delivering a message of self-reliance and hope to young offenders. His visit was part of his initiative, “A Child in Sport Never Goes to Court,” aimed at steering teenagers away from crime through the positive influence of sports.
Addressing an audience of over 1,000 young inmates aged between 13 and 16, Tyekana shared his personal journey, emphasising the importance of self-trust and the dangers of negative peer influence. “The only friend a youngster can trust is himself, and should regard other people as mere associates,” he stated. He further cautioned, “Friends are a bad influence, you must only have people to talk to, instead of friends, because the moment you start to progress, they’ll be jealous.”
Tyekana’s message underscored the idea that personal growth and success should not be hindered by one’s circumstances. He shared his own experience, saying, “I come from a very poor family, and had to drop out of high school so that my youngest siblings could study, but I didn’t do crime. Education is key and not having food gives you no right to commit a crime.”
The event also featured insights from social worker Babalwa Mqushulu-Madyibi, who highlighted the transformative power of sports in building confidence and unity. “Sport brings racial and ethnic unity. It brings people of various backgrounds under one roof. It boosts your confidence and gives you a sense of discipline,” she remarked.
Deputy head of the centre, Nthuthu Gugwana, spoke about the institution’s efforts to rehabilitate and reintegrate young offenders into society. “These kids are not angels, they’ve committed crimes, but we’re now trying to rebuild them with the spirit of Ubuntu,” she explained. She emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “The centre was in dire need of assistance from communities and the private sector.”
Tyekana’s visit serves as a reminder of the impact that mentorship, community involvement, and sports can have in guiding young individuals towards a positive future. His message encourages youth to believe in themselves and make choices that lead to personal and communal growth. –@NewsSA_Online
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