DSD Youth - A story of hope

Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Sharna Fernandez, wishes to extend her heartfelt congratulations to all those who have passed matric and received their National Senior Certificate.

In particular, we are celebrating young people from the Department of Social Development (DSD) facilities for their resilience and academic achievements. The Department manages seven residential Child and Youth Care Centres (CYCC) which offer varying levels of care to sentenced or awaiting trial children and youth or those with severe behavioural challenges.

There is one young man, whose academic journey over the last two years may be an inspiration to other youth living in challenging circumstances.

Midway into his matric year in 2022, 20-year-old Darryl Isaacs* was placed in Horizon CYCC. Although faced with many challenges, like the disruption to his schooling, he persevered and passed matric with a distinction.

Isaacs has since completed his first year studying Information Technology at a Cape Town college where he received two A’s for his year mark and four A’s for practical marks.

He says DSD staff have been instrumental in helping him succeed academically: “They always motivate me. They even assisted me with registering for college and all the admin associated with that. Whenever I wanted to give up, they would encourage me. What keeps me going is my mother. My mother worked hard for me, even working two jobs, so I want to work hard for her so I can one day repay her for everything she’s done for me.”

Mornay Johnson, Horizon CYCC manager, says it hasn’t been an easy road for Isaacs, but he continues to be an inspiration: “Darryl* had so many pressures on him, especially from the other residents in this facility like peer pressure, but he is able to rise above it and focus on his studies, remaining motivated. His resilience is impeccable, and he sets a great example for other youth. It is important for us as the guardians of young people in these kinds of facilities to support them, because there is so much untapped potential and talent within our facilities, and it is our mission to get the best out of everyone.”

Provincial Minister Fernandez says: “I must thank the incredible DSD staff working at these facilities, who are assisting these young people with the necessary guidance and support they need to achieve great things. When youth get in trouble with the law, it does not mean their lives are over. If they choose to make better choices, they can have a bright future, this young man is proof of that. He is choosing to focus on his academics, to focus on improving his and his family’s lives. Well done to him and all the other successful academic achievers in the DSD facilities. To the unsung heroes who are helping them on their journeys: I salute you!”

“For those in the class of 2023 who were unsuccessful or who are unhappy with their results, this is not the end. If you require any kind of psychosocial support, like counseling, reach out to your nearest DSD office, or call the DSD toll-free number 0800 220 250. To the parents or caregivers: I urge you to be kind and understanding, and seek support where needed,” says Minister Fernandez.

*Not his real name

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Media Queries:

Monique Mortlock-Malgas
Spokesperson to MEC Sharna Fernandez

Department of Social Development

E-mail: Monique.Mortlock@westerncape.gov.za

Website: www.westerncape.gov.za