Raffiq Ismail’s journey from a rebellious teenager to a valuable contributor to society is a testament to the power of personal transformation. He faced domestic violence and chaos in his childhood, leading him to rebel and become involved with drugs and gangsterism. His life spiralled out of control, and he lived on the streets, faced prison multiple times, and struggled with addiction for nine years.
By the time Raffiq turned 27, his life was a complete mess! But somehow, he staggered and stumbled through the gates of CYPSA at KwaSizabantu Mission in March 2015. That was the turning point for him. He signed in with CYPSA’s restoration program and attended regular church services where they preached about Jesus Christ and the forgiveness of sins. As he attended the services and listened to the Word of God being preached in truth, God started working in his life. He began confessing his sins, and the burdens he carried on his shoulders rolled away. Not long after that, he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour and gave his heart to Him.
“The grace the Lord has shown me is miraculous. Not only has He changed my heart, but He has preserved my brain from harm through all the years of drug abuse. I was able to make restitution with my family and community. I even presented myself to the police, who cleared me of all my outstanding charges!”
Raffiq came to understand and experience the value of confession and restitution. “Confessing our sins helps us to come to terms with the wrongs we did, and – at the same time – it reminds us of our weakness and God’s wonderful grace. That is one of the reasons why people, once they accept Jesus into their lives, not only want to confess sins but make it right with those they have harmed and restore what he took violently from others. It is called restitution. KwaSizabantu was always and remains a place where people are helped and countless positive stories that will inspire others are just waiting to be told.”
Since surrendering to Jesus, Raffiq’s life has completely turned around for good. He recently completed his Bachelor of Education degree through North-West University, even graduating Cum Laude (with distinction)! With the help of CYPSA and God, Raffiq is living his dreams, and we’re sure there are more incredible things in store for this inspiring young man.
Raffiq at his graduation ceremony
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Image credits: All pictures provided by KwaSizabantu
