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Missionaries are special people with extraordinary qualities. They selflessly help those in need without expecting anything back in return. Most missions are dependent on others to support their work. Still, South Africa boasts a mission station that has grown extraordinarily over the years and expanded by creating several branches nationwide and abroad. The KwaSizabantu Mission in KwaZulu-Natal continued to grow after the tragic death of its founder, Rev Erlo Stegen, a year ago. For November, we honour the work of this extraordinary missionary who dedicated his entire life to helping others by sharing a few of his achievements. At the heart of a Christian mission’s work lies the profound commitment to teaching, healing, helping, and spreading the gospel. This dedication inherently involves reaching out to those who are broken and marginalised, serving individuals and communities in desperate need of support. To fulfil the divine calling set before him, Erlo Stegen has, with the help of a few co-workers, tirelessly orchestrated a wide array of projects over the years—from building initiatives to agricultural endeavours—all aimed at creating diverse income streams that directly uplift the community. These efforts addressed immediate needs and cultivated long-term sustainability for various outreach programs that empower and enhance lives. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of KwaZulu-Natal, the KwaSizabantu Mission stands as a unique beacon of hope and resilience. This self-sustaining mission station has been meticulously developed and devoted to profoundly serving the community. The auditorium, a central hub for worship and community gatherings, is especially significant within the mission’s vibrant history. The original auditorium, completed in 1990, was an architectural marvel capable of accommodating approximately 10,000 worshippers. Its construction stretched over an arduous decade, representing the collective spirit and commitment of the community. Tragically, this beautiful structure was lost to a devastating fire in June 2008, a calamity that could have derailed the mission’s work. Instead, it ignited a wave of support as churches and organisations from around the globe rushed to extend their assistance. Volunteers and skilled experts, locally and internationally, united with purpose and compassion to help rebuild. Remarkably, in less than a year, a stunning new 10,000-seater auditorium was completed, symbolising the resilience and unwavering faith of the KwaSizabantu Mission. The Mission is a learning centre, and during the rebuilding of the auditorium, Rev Erlo identified a need for adult learning. He started an adult learning program to help the workers better communicate. Later, the Domino Servite School was founded, an independent English-medium Christian school that also provides schooling for workers and co-workers. The school has grown from humble beginnings in 1986 into a private school, now also catering to children from across the globe. The Mission has a tremendous positive impact on the children's development, and the school encourages young adults to hold onto the good Christian values they have learned. Grade 12 learners write the IEB Senior Certificate Examination, and the school has achieved a 100% Matric pass rate since it registered as an examination centre in 1988. In addition, the Mission’s Cedar International Academy NPC, has recently celebrated 30 years of service excellence. (Learn more about the work of Rev Erlo Stegen by following the link: https://online.pubhtml5.com/asxvv/xzrv )

AQuellé, the water bottling plant in Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal, has been a driving force in the community's clean-up efforts. Their initiative, started three years ago, has significantly improved the health and cleanliness of neglected areas. Their vision is to create a cleaner South Africa, leading to a healthier country. Gladson Songelwa, the coordinator, highlighted the importance of working together to clean the environment:  "Three years ago, we observed a lack of awareness for clean environments in our community. The litter around the community shops was a sore-eye and posed potential health risks, so we started to clean up. Our endeavours also include eco-systems. Our collective responsibility is to act and ensure the long-term sustainability of our water ecosystems. Clean and healthy rivers and streams are the lifeblood of our communities. It provides us with drinking water, crop irrigation, and a habitat for countless wildlife species. Our community clean-ups form part of our bigger community outreach programme. It has become synonymous with our brand due to our wide-reaching footprint. We believe our partnerships will help us achieve greater awareness and sustainability.” This approach ensures that the clean-ups are impactful.  Various groups have joined the aQuellé-team over time to participate in clean-up efforts. These include community radio stations. Private companies have recognised the importance of sustainable clean-ups and joined these initiatives in their respective areas. The Natal Sharks Board has also joined the clean-up efforts, focusing on townships near the sea. They have specifically addressed the impact of plastics and litter on sharks and have made significant progress in cleaning the area. Volunteers from different organisations collected hundreds of bags of litter, and community members took part in clean-up operations in areas such as Durban harbour, Ntuzuma, and Klaarwater townships and even extended their efforts to Newcastle in the KZN Midlands. “One of the areas we cleaned showed us it was a high alcohol-using area”, said Gladson. “We saw hundreds of empty bottles lying around, and cleaning that area took some time. This area had dirty water running through the township, and only mobile toilets were used for usage, resulting in life-risking raw sewerage across the place – even in the areas where children were playing. This was the worst we have seen, but it broke our hearts because our communities are not supposed to live in these unhealthy circumstances. We want to change this status quo”. To find out more about the clean-ups and how you can become involved, visit www.aquelle.co.za/KHULA  or www.facebook.com/aQuelleKhula

Cleopatra Chitsa  (30) is proudly born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and currently residing in Ivory Park - Tembisa in South Africa. Ngonidzashe, as popularly known , is a beautiful model, healthcare assistant and a founder of Patracre Agency ( an agency helping the youth obtain jobs regardless of race , gender  or nationality ). Taking us through her journey, Ngoni said: “ Travelling from one country to another to look for greener pastures has never been easy. My career as a part time model for boutiques started in Botswana in 2013 where I experienced lot of challenges including learning Tswana culture and adjusting to a new environment. I appreciate Moretele family for taking me as part of the family” she said. In 2019, she graduated from School of Khanya as a certified Carer / Nanny and volunteered to work at an old age homes and clinics. Moving to Johannesburg - Yeoville, South Africa was another big mountain to climb. “I was only 20 years, first born in my family  and had to look out for a job in order to survive. I hustled by doing odd jobs at restaurants and as a cleaner. I had to be strong and fight to survive in so called “ City of Gold ”, she added.  Many people are going through a lot in their marriages / relationships and kept quiet for the sake of love or kids. Ngoni has chosen not to keep  quiet and entertain nonsense . “I survived gender based violence in my past marriage and decided to assist young males and females who go through such abuse. People must NEVER feel pity for themselves and never tolerate physical, emotional or verbal abuse” she added. One of the biggest challenge in the modelling industry is lack of endorsements and agencies who requires funds to get gigs for models. Her biggest highlight was doing a catwalk at Ann Ribbons show for 5 times and wishes to assist youth to get jobs regardless of their background. “Youth ended up being involved in prostitutions or young marriages because they have nothing to do and this must be considered. I would like to thank Rise Africans Newspaper for a wonderful platform to share my story, my late mom for bringing a tough young lady into this world and my life partner for all the support” she concluded. More info about her work can be found - email : cleopatrachitsa@gmail.com

Peer pressure is real and its unfortunate our youth are still falling into a trap. This story goes out to all African brothers and sisters who think that taking drugs is the best option to avoid life challenges. Mogau Nkdaimeng  is a 31 years old guy who grew up in Christian family in a place called Siyabuswa, Mpumalanga - South Africa but currently based in Ga Rankuwa. Born out of 5 children, Mogau started school at Phakgamang Primary School, then went to Sizamakwethu Primary and matriculated at Sobantu Senior Secondary School. “Am glad to share my story, honestly speaking I was influenced by the bad circle, I remember well in my second year at TUT ( Tshwane University of Technology ). My friends were privileged in terms of finance, they were assisting me with lots of things ended up taking drugs just to be on their good books. I did lot to be close to them and they ended up paying me amounts of money just to assist them with school assignments” he said. Asking him about his first experience after taking drugs, Mogau added that: “ We were partying hard at one of my friend’s place and I was not drinking cause I was a driver that day. I was so tired and feeling sleepy when one of my friends suggested that I must hit just one for that night. The feeling was out of this planet, I've never felt like that in my entire life.” One taste made him to go for more as far to spend R 150,00 or more to satisfy his addiction of heroin ( nyaope ) and rock ( crack cocaine ). The following year, he was forced to move out residential accommodation and look for an affordable room around Soshanguve and led him to go for cheaper drugs. “I ended up dropping out of the varsity, got deeper into addiction, arrested many times, false accusations of killings and the worse part is of being rejected as no one want to be associated with a drug addict”, said Mogau. Positive support from his brother Jimmy, cousin Pebetsi, elder sisters, Rachel and Brenda and mother of his daughter, Nkele Seanego play much role in terms of his recovery. They make a firm and strong team that is needed to conquer this monster  “I feel embarassed for what I have caused to my family and community. I wish I could turn back the time and do better as a father. I was  absent to my daughter but now am here for good, my late father must be ashamed of me - May His Soul continue to rest in peace” he said  Fortunately Mogau is currently busy writing a book about his life as an addict, on a process of operating an NPO, volunteering at an NPO in Ga Rankuwa, involved in road running sports programmes and helping other addicts who really want to change their lives. His last message to someone who just started taking drugs is stop it while its early. “What you are going through might feel fun, exciting and cool at first but once you are hooked, you will curse the first day you tried it. You are only human after all and remember tough times do not last, only people do”, concluded Mogau.

The esteemed water-bottling brand, aQuellé, located in Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal, has garnered multiple awards for its commitment to quality and community service. This innovative company collaborates with local authorities and communities to revitalise neglected areas, breathing new life into them. aQuellé actively engages with communities, providing education on the importance of maintaining a cleaner environment and highlighting the myriad benefits this brings to residents and the ecosystem. Their efforts are about cleaning up and inspiring a healthier, more sustainable future. By partnering with local government bodies, aQuellé effectively identifies areas needing improvement. Together, they work towards finding sustainable, practical solutions that enhance the community's overall well-being. Their efforts improve the landscape and foster a sense of pride and ownership among residents, encouraging a shared responsibility for their surroundings. The project coordinator, Gladson Songela, said, “Sometimes, the problem is much bigger than we can manage, requiring a workable solution that benefits all. For instance, through our joint clean-ups, the teams have identified a massive problem of disposable nappies in some rural areas, taking over the areas and creating health risks. The team is now busy with research to see how they can use the waste better. In this case, we are talking about nappies, which pose a huge problem in certain areas”.  This innovative approach to waste management is just one example of aQuellé's impressive capabilities. The team also shows schoolchildren how to use empty plastic bottles and other waste to make toys. This helps children become aware of the meaning of environmental protection and reducing waste, especially plastic. They also work together with Emseni Farming’s vegetable garden’s outreach project. The project focuses on schools where schoolchildren are shown how to turn a small area into a vegetable garden at home or in schools. Empty plastic bottles are then used as mini hothouses to protect small plants and help them grow into healthy crops that they can use or sell for an income. The team is dedicated to revitalising overlooked areas within the community that pose a health problem. Some local authorities launched an engaging “adopt-a-spot” initiative to pinpoint neglected regions. This event encourages community members to identify spaces that can be transformed into functional areas, such as vibrant vegetable gardens, to serve the community's needs. In this collaborative effort, local authorities lead the charge, ensuring that the transformation beautifies the environment and fosters a sense of ownership and engagement among residents. The  aQuellé brand has received numerous well-deserved awards over the years. It was recently voted South Africa's most-loved bottled water brand, and it's easy to see why. The brand benefits the community by creating a model for collaborating with local authorities to develop sustainable, clean areas. The inspiring impact of these initiatives is a testament to the power of collective action and community involvement. To find out more about the clean-ups and how you can become involved, visit www.aquelle.co.za/KHULA  or www.facebook.com/aQuelleKhula

Rise Africans newspaper had a wonderful chat with a music producer, DJ, Sound Engineer from Nigeria. Justice Itua Iyere ( 33 ) was born in Edo State, Ekpoma and attended University of Benin. Dj MK Groove, as popularly known , is an Esan by tribe and believes in nothing but a hardwork. “I  experienced numerous things in the music industry  in the past 5 years, but pushing more harder made me feel special. I love music with all my heart and I know that tomorrow will always be better than today, where there is hope there is life”, said MK Groove  In 2022/23, he was busy with an album, which  includes tracks such as “ Good woman ”, “Odogwu ”, “ Poverty no good ” and others. When asking him about a motive behind a song “ Poverty no good ”, he said: “there were tough times where I had nobody to assist me financial to be able to push my music. Days were dark and that is where I realised that poverty is to be blamed in lot of things” His dream is get and exposure and perform internationally. Currently DJ MK Groove has managed to entertain his fans at a place called The Rock Garden in Abuja and want to see himself performing in places such as South Africa. “All aspiring artists must never give up on their art, life is too short, keep pushing and remember that no pain no gain. Thanks for all the support and lookout for my upcoming hot album” he concluded. Bookings can be done: 08133288722 Whatsapp number | DjMkgroove tiktok | Justice groove fb

A 17 year old Grade 11 learner from Queenstown, Eastern Cape Province in South Africa will never let anyone to distract her talent. Alizwa Langalakhelihle Bakubaku  is a writer/ poet who has written unpublished 70 English  poems, 5 iSiXhosa  poems and 10 short stories. “Coming from a low income family inspires me a lot. I started writing in Grade 6 when I was at Edlelweni PPS but I wasn't serious. Arriving in high school changed my perspective and enthusiasm.  I saw different people,  a whole world in one school. My journey of writing was influenced by Likhona Mgweqi.  She encouraged me to do best and move out my shell. I let my pen and paper to  create a unique fantastic combination of words that can heal people and give lessons” she said. However, many people were not impressed by her poems, saying they are not good enough. Little they knew that it is what motivates her to keep writing. Last year she wrote poems and short stories,   Yomelela Makhwenke  and  that has boosted her confidence in writing. “My dream is to reach an international level and inspire more people with my work. I want to be a script writer and assist writers who comes from poor background like myself. Last message to aspiring writers out there is  put your mind to what you love,  do it no matter the limitations and don't satisfy others but strive for what makes happy”, she concluded. She can be contacted : 067 007 0522. On Facebook, tiktok and Instagram @Langa bakzit

When you go to the public places you normally see people smiling with happy faces but do not know how they feel inside. The world turned us to be fake people because of pride/ afraid of being judged or for the sake of love / kids etc  Our sister Mavis Tom (51)  raised her hand and opted to stand strong against GBV and Mental Wellness. In 2022, she started Khanya Wellness Organisation - a Non Profit Organisation  aimed to assist all people who are suffering from GBV and Mentall Illness. “The  reason behind   Khanya Wellness Organisation is to be a voice to the voiceless in terms of GBV and awareness on Mentall Illness since I have experienced both. I want to be there for the victims, ensure they are healed, advice them and assist them to speak out”’ she said. GBV is a decease, people suffer in silence and use words such as “I love him/her”, “what about the kids” instead of seeking help, they are trapped in the name of love. “My partner use to abuse me, verbally, sexually, financially, spiritually, sometimes assults, pushing or pointing fingers at me. I was brave enough to make a protection order for him at the court yet he did not want to leave me , I had to divorce him”, she added. Symptoms of Mental Illness are, heavy headache, always angry, not punctual, dizziness, want to cry but do not know why, loneliness, irritated, shouting and always protecting yourself. If you see this signs please makes sure you seek help or get someone to talk to. No one is born to be someone’s trash. Mentall Ilness is worse and lead to bullying. Khanya Wellness Organisations visits schools and spread the word. Some learners feel comfortable to share their problems. “I always share my contacts to make them feel free because some are still shy to open up in public. It will be better if we can work together with social workers, psychologists and the government. Advice to all people facing GBV is to speak up, do not fear that what people are going to say”, she concluded. Lets join hands and make the world a better place. Anyone who seek help to overcome GBV and Mental Illness can freely contact Mavis : Call or Whatsapp: 0789117663

It has been one year since Rev Erlo Stegen's passing. He was a significant figure in missionary work among the Zulu people and left behind a legacy of hope, love and kindness. His journey began from humble beginnings over seventy years ago and evolved into a sustainable mission deeply rooted in his commitment to his calling. Rev Erlo was not appreciated enough during his lifetime for his outstanding work, and this month we celebrate his legacy by sharing positive news about his life’s work. Born on March 2, 1935, on the farm Paardefontein in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Erlo Stegen was the grandson of German immigrants who established themselves in rural KZN. He grew up in a Christian household, where he first felt a compelling desire to serve the Zulu community at 17. This calling led him to begin his ministry in Maphumulo during the 1950s. Stegen dedicated his life to spreading the gospel and uplifting the Zulu nation, forging a lasting impact through tireless efforts and obedience to his mission. Young Erlo, filled with a fervent calling to preach among the Zulu people, embarked on a remarkable ministry journey with little more than his faith and determination. In the beginning, he found himself in an old, abandoned cowshed, which he transformed into his makeshift sanctuary for prayer and worship. It was in this humble setting that the divine spark ignited, drawing large crowds who came to seek solace and guidance. As the number of souls yearning for spiritual nourishment soared, the cowshed quickly reached its limits, unable to accommodate the growing worshippers. Many of these attendees travelled great distances, burdening the young preacher and his few devoted co-workers, who struggled to provide basic food and shelter for the influx of followers. Recognising the pressing need for support, Erlo and his team acquired a farm in the Kranskop area and established a mission station called KwaSizabantu, which means “the place where people are helped” in Zulu. They built essential structures with limited resources and initiated agricultural projects to support the crowds seeking spiritual guidance. The mission's focus on feeding and housing those in need has driven its numerous construction and agricultural initiatives. Over the years, Erlo has forged strong ties with community members and partners, evolving the mission into a thriving organisation dedicated to spreading the gospel and improving lives. KwaSizabantu has developed a range of buildings and agricultural ventures, generating revenue supporting the community and the missionaries’ outreach programs. Despite challenges, this enduring work has transformed KwaSizabantu into one of the largest missions in Africa, a testament to Rev Erlo's dedication and the community's resilience. Rev. Erlo pioneered uplifting communities in various areas, particularly in agriculture, economics, education, and humanitarian initiatives. Over the years, he faced significant challenges and encountered numerous obstacles. However, these challenges only temporarily distracted him; he quickly returned to what he viewed as his God-given mission. In the process, he has enhanced the economic well-being of countless poor communities. He also taught business skills to the workers on an ongoing basis and pioneered and provided schooling and affordable tertiary education to remote communities over seven decades. His legacy is growing and still benefits thousands. Read more about the KwaSizabantu Mission on the website, www.ksb.org.za

Like many other countries, South Africa has been affected by the pandemic and numerous incidents and natural disasters over the past few years. The COVID-19 pandemic, social unrest, large-scale looting (by the public and the government) and other disasters have compounded the suffering of the people. Many have lost their lives, livelihoods, businesses, and property, and countless individuals are still unable to see the light at the end of the tunnel, leading to a loss of hope. With the festive season approaching, it is time to reach out and assist those in need. It is not all doom and gloom; we like sharing untold stories with readers. Many individuals and organisations regularly support marginalised and vulnerable communities. We must take a moment to celebrate and thank them for their selfless efforts to make a difference and improve the world. And we must follow their example. One such organisation that significantly impacted communities is the award-winning aQuellė water bottling company. In addition to its sustainable clean-up campaign, which has positively influenced communities across South Africa, this company also aids during disasters and other challenging circumstances. The company partners with organisations such as Emseni Farming and the Doctors for Life International team to relieve how, where, and when it is needed. They, for instance, distribute water and food to affected areas on a large scale. The team consistently supports communities in crisis, fostering a spirit of cooperation and resilience. In inspiring collaboration with others, they also contribute daily to the well-being of the community at large. Various farming initiatives and projects have been established, generating a sustainable income that directly uplifts the lives of community members. These initiatives are vital for the ongoing outreach and empowerment programs and the critical missionary work conducted at the KwaSizanbantu Mission, where these businesses are rooted. The late Rev Erlo Stegen, a visionary founder of the mission and the various enterprises, was celebrated for his steadfast encouragement and unwavering support. His remarkable legacy is steeped in love and compassion, which he consistently demonstrated throughout his impactful ministry. Confronted with widespread job losses and an escalating food security crisis in South Africa, Rev Stegen recognised the urgent need to empower communities. He inspired individuals to cultivate a deeper relationship with the land, highlighting the importance of nurturing the soil. He provided essential training and distributed seeds to turn this vision into reality, enabling families to establish their own gardens and farms. This initiative fostered hope and facilitated a journey toward self-sufficiency during challenging times. Emseni, alongside aQuellė, Doctors for Life International, and the KwaSizabantu Mission, are at the heart of this transformative effort, all deeply embedded in the Kranskop community. This rural area in KwaZulu-Natal, often overlooked by government initiatives, is characterised by limited job prospects and neglect. For many years, the dedicated team and the community have forged powerful partnerships, working hand in hand to uplift lives and create meaningful change. Their collective efforts stand as a testament to the belief that through collaboration and unity, both communities and the nation can thrive.

Many Geographical names here in the Western Cape where I am currently residing; have a direct derived name meaning from the First Nations People ( Khoi) if we see it daily when either on news; newspapers; Television; Radio; Internet and Social media. Here are a few names with meanings ; proving to us that KAWAKAWAS ( restoration) is important. ° Karoo ( desert/arid/dry/hard surface) ° Leeu-Gamka (Gam - direct translation of Lion Ka (Ga) - Spirit) ° Knysna ( derived from NAI - KhoiKhoi for speechless/ flabbergasted - the Knysna forest does that when looking at it) ° Tsitsikamma ( kamma/ ||gamma - water Tsitsi - clear Place of Transparent Water) ° Hessaqua ( Hessa - Trees Qua - People " People of the Trees) ° Goudini ( Gou - orthographic word from "AU" - bitter Dini ( Danib ) - honey Bitter Honey area) So with all this ....how can we not MU#UIS or Acknowledge these information about who built the Wealth of this Land Jeffrey Oarasib Hotagob Hartzenberg ©️

The multiple award-winning water-bottling brand, aQuellé, in Kranskop, KwaZulu-Natal, has partnered with local authorities to conduct sustainable clean-ups in neglected areas of neighbourhoods. They have already completed over 80 clean-ups across all provinces in South Africa, making it the most sustainable clean-up program ever. This rapid growth shows maturity.  The team will continue cleaning the country across regions, as there is a huge demand from local authorities to help them clean up their communities. The vision is a cleaner South Africa that will translate into a healthy country; we already see the positive effects. The brand ensures its clean-up campaign lives beyond individual clean-up days to impact all communities for good. The project coordinator, Gladson Songelwa, emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, "We believe in cleaning up our surroundings before pointing fingers at others. Our first clean-ups at KwaSizabantu Mission, Kranskop, and Mapumulo were initiated in collaboration with our community. We raised awareness about the importance of a clean environment for good health and held talks about the significance of clean environments. Our approach was not just to clean, but to make a meaningful impact. This led us to reach out to other communities with neglected areas, and our clean-up efforts expanded rapidly, thanks to the active participation of our communities”. The clean-ups in collaboration with local authorities are a win-win situation. Sharing resources, knowledge, and experience can take a service delivery project to the next level. Collaborations allow the aQuellé-teams to help identify problem areas. This way, success stories are passed on to different regions. There are several reasons why aQuelle prefers to work with local authorities and allows them to take the lead. Firstly, it helps them to strengthen relationships. They take the excellent advice and assistance they receive from a specific municipality and apply it to benefit other communities. Through these close interactions and collaborations, they can identify gaps and shortages and provide help where needed. For example, the team is currently assisting with additional resources and will offer rubbish bins where there is a shortage. Similarly, some municipalities have helped and taken clean-up efforts to the next level by bringing equipment to improve service delivery to those communities, such as fixing potholes. The  aQuellé brand has received numerous well-deserved awards over the years. It was recently voted South Africa's most-loved bottled water brand. The brand benefits the community by creating a model for collaborating with local authorities to develop sustainable, clean areas. The inspiring impact of these initiatives is a testament to the power of collective action and community involvement. To find out more about the clean-ups and how you can become involved, visit www.aquelle.co.za/KHULA  or www.facebook.com/aQuelleKhula