People, especially the youth, today grapple with an array of challenges, from a lack of parental support to the pervasive issues of bullying, drug abuse, crime, and the complexities of being part of child-headed families. Among these challenges, the alarming rise in dagga/Nyaope use and gender-based violence casts a shadow over their well-being. Many young individuals find themselves trapped in these negative cycles, desperately in need of assistance to break free. Yet, amidst the darkness, rays of hope emerge, offered by those who genuinely care.The testimonies below are a few of those who have been helped through CYPSA.
“The burden and anxiety have been replaced by peace and joy. Each day I live is now full of joy and meaningful. I thank God for Rev Stegen and the Mission’s co-workers who have helped me so much and are still supporting me. I thank God for KwaSizabantu Mission, a place on which I have been living and working now for ten years – a wonderful privilege.” (Laura from Italy )
“We want to thank Rev Erlo Stegen for his example of a selfless life, and we also thank the leadership of the Mission and the many counsellors for teaching and guiding us. Our hearts are grateful and humbled by what we all have experienced at this place of God.” (Asnicar Bax family)
“After many failed attempts at self-help, the CYPSA message of hope and restoration reached me while I was living on the streets due to my self-imposed exile from my loved ones. Today I am free from substances for the longest time in over twenty years. The change in my life has been seen and two of my dearest friends have now come to see what is taking place at CYPSA”. (Shawne)
“Because of drugs, I had hurt and broken so many people’s lives, especially my family. IN 2014, I was offered by CYPSA an opportunity to return to school and finish my studies. I enrolled in 2016 and have now completed a degree in Criminology. I am currently enrolled for a second degree”. (Bongani)
“my drug use continued for 15 years. In December 2018 I arrived at CYPSA. That was when God started to work in my life and I could finally let go of the grudge I carried because of growing up without a mother”. (Mbuso)
“I was on the brink of committing suicide – the thought that crossed my mind more than once. But what I experienced at CYPSA after beginning to confess my sins and giving my life to the Lord was like nothing I had ever experienced in my entire life”. (Josh)
READ MORE ABOUT THE WORK OF CYPSA IN THE DEVOTED SPECIAL PUBLICATION
Image credits: All pictures provided by KwaSizabantu
