Realistic graduates celebrate their journey to sobriety and healing
Siviwe Nqeza, Realistic's officer manager sharing words of wisdom withthe graduates and their parents.
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Fifteen participants graduated from a six-month training programme run by the Rebuilding and Life Skills Training Centre (Realistic), a non-profit organisation that supports ex-offenders and individuals struggling with substance abuse.
The graduation and restoration ceremony was held on Saturday, July 12, and marked a significant milestone for the graduates, many of whom have overcome drug addiction.
Siviwe Nqeza, office manager at Realistic, said the graduation formed part of the organisation’s wider focus on healing and restoration. “Before graduation, we have a peace pipe ceremony where former addicts and their parents come together,” she said. “Many have caused harm to their families, and this is a chance to ask for forgiveness.”
Sibahle Mzamo and Phezile Ngandana edutain those who attended the graduation with their play.
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“Before graduation, we have a peace pipe ceremony where former addicts and their parents come together,” she said.
“Many have caused harm to their families, and this is a chance to ask for forgiveness.”
The six-month programme includes intensive life skills training and ends with a formal graduation. Ms Nqeza said the latest group of graduates had been placed in year-long work opportunities through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), and would also continue in Realistic’s aftercare programme.
“They are very fortunate. But as much as they’ll be working, the EPWP will eventually come to an end — and then what?” she said. “We want them to be prepared and supported, so they don’t end up back on street corners.”
Ms Nqeza said the organisation’s outpatient programme had seen many successes over the years.
Graduates together with their friends and parents at the Realistic graduation last Saturday.
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One of the graduates, Vusumuzi Tunca, shared his story of recovery after five months of sobriety. “For years, I struggled, but a family member brought me to Realistic. I want to tell everyone it’s possible to overcome this. If I can do it, anyone can,” he said.
He also encouraged parents to support their children who are using drugs. “It’s not easy to quit, but over time you can. I was resistant too, but today I’m clean and graduating. This place helped me a lot. Now I’m also working,” he said.