In this month’s issue of The Big Issue is a must-read story – about three young men working to set up a gangster museum in Khayelitsha.
The idea is not to idealise or glorify the gangsters who make life on the Cape Flats such a misery, but instead to teach children about the dangers of gang life. Big Issue writer Tarryn Brien was inspired by Wandisile Nqeketho, Siyabulela Daweti and Athenkosi Mongo, who already run a successful recycling initiative. Products of the Raymond Ackerman Academy of Entrepreneurial Development, the trio believe that “the mind is a powerful tool. Once you work with the mind and start actually educating people, they will make informed decisions.”
Their 18 Gangster Museum will, they hope, tell the stories of former gangsters, so demystifying the lifestyle and helping the men’s rehabilitation.
The trio are also the founders of a successful cleaning and recycling business called Ilima Cleaning and Recycling, also based in Khayelitsha. It tries to take away the stigma some township residents attach to recycling, create jobs, and improve the environment.
The full article appears in the Issue 214 of The Big Issue – on sale now to 21 November 2013. Buy a copy today!
