I grew up without a father. Now I’m stepping up to support others

Growing up, Msizi Phewa’s future was clouded in uncertainty. What direction should he take? Who could he turn to for help? “For many years I lived without a father,” Phewa says. “I felt so lost without that figure in my life.” Little did he know that being adrift would one day steer his path. Today, Phewa is a role model in the township of KwaNyuswa, KwaZulu-Natal. “I’m here for young people,” Phewa says.

Unemployment and lack of opportunity can lead many down the wrong track. Not Phewa. “Where some see hopelessness, I see potential,” he says. As the director of the Light Providers Youth Club, Phewa is opening doors for others to grow. The NPO has a library filled with resources, as well as a space for people to work on their strengths, whether it’s netball, singing, or dancing. Phewa also offers valuable lessons in computer literacy. “Everyone has a talent,” he says. “I hope that by coming here, the youth will find theirs.”

Along the way, Phewa himself has discovered his purpose. He identifies as a leader, there to encourage people on their journeys. “We underestimate how important it is to have a deep understanding of ourself,” Phewa says. It could be the key to unlocking life’s possibilities.