Residents who have taken a stand against the careless killings of Helenvale’s youth commemorated the victims on Saturday with a gospel musical tribute, raising awareness against gangsterism.
The Alive Tribute, hosted by the Peace and Harmony Community Project at the Helenvale Resource Centre, sent a strong message to the youngsters in attendance – education, not drugs and gangsterism, is the way forward.
The organisation’s chair, Christo Lewack, 33, of Helenvale, said: “There are so many kids who pass away in our community because of the high rate of gangsterism and, even though we know it might never stop, we still believe we need to try to make a difference because everyone deserves a chance to prove themselves.
“We need to educate the community, to train their thinking from [an early age] that a life of crime is not the answer.”
Lewack, who also performed at the event, said he was proud that other artists from all around the country had given of their time for the event.
Sergio Jansen, 24, of Helenvale, the organisation’s deputy chair, said the event was an opportunity to shed light on the socioeconomic issues the communities were faced with.“About a month ago, two of my cousins and I were shot at after we had an argument with some guys in our area,” he said.
“I am not a gangster, but this situation is sad because even when you are not directly involved you can be affected.”
Musician Trevor Benson, 45, who was born and raised in Helenvale but now lives and teaches in Cape Town, said: “Helenvale is close to my heart.
“This tribute is about raising awareness of life, celebrating and acknowledging life and to thank God we are still alive to be able to make a change for these kids in this area.”
While hundreds of children’s faces lit up when they entered the centre, a few minutes into the programme the organisers warned of a shooting that had taken place nearby.