Why I am an activist

Vuyisani Gwebani

by Vuyisani Gwebani

Why I am an activist?, This is a question I always ask myself, when the community turn against me, because of unexpected results of community engagement with an injustice capital company. It is a question always pop out of mind, when I see a devastating state of a community, with hopelessness. Those against my activism, often ask, how can a pastor be an activist, but then I am a Pastor and an Activist.

I’m a pastor and activist driven by a deep desire to serve and advocate for my community members who are struggling with injustice and inequality. My activism is rooted in in a principle of seeking to put my values into action and make a tangible difference in the lives of those around me.

Born in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape, where we had to walk for 2km, to a primary school, and another to fetch water with the wheelbarrow,its the root of who I am. My politics comes are born by living in a community where injustice, non-service delivery its a daily life. God sent me to KwaZulu-Natal, in Newcastle, a mine power house in the northern natal. Now as a resident in in KZN, I started to notice unfair treatment and injustice in my community when I saw disparities in access to resources and opportunities. I witnessed how systemic issues affected people’s lives, and I knew I had to take action. I saw people being marginalized, excluded, and oppressed, and I heard their stories of struggle and resilience.

My envisioned change is a world where everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. I believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or identity. I envision a society where communities are empowered to make their own decisions, and where systemic injustices are a thing of the past.

I draw strength for my activism from the community that surrounds me. I’m inspired by the resilience and determination of the individuals who are working tirelessly to create positive change. I’m also motivated by the progress we’ve made, no matter how small, and the potential for transformative change. My faith is a source of strength and guidance for me, and I’m committed to continuing this work, believing that faith-based activism can bring about meaningful and impactful difference in the lives of those around me.