South Africa: A Woman of Faith

“God is our Alpha and Omega.” These words, spoken by Umama uYakobi, capture the spirit of resilience that defines her life and her community. At 52 years old, living in Town Two, Khayelitsha, she is a mother, grandmother, activist, and a pillar of strength in a place where hardship is the norm.

Town Two is a community scarred by violence, homophobic attacks, substance abuse, and chronic neglect by local authorities. Basic services are almost non-existent, and hope is often in short supply. Yet, through the support of The Great People of South Africa and funding from WVLSA, a spark of change has begun to light the darkness—especially for young women.

Faith as a Foundation

Prayer is woven into the fabric of this community. Every programme begins with prayer, and Umama uYakobi, an archbishop at the Zion Church, is often the one leading it. Her presence brings comfort and strength, reminding everyone that faith can be a powerful anchor in turbulent times.

We first met her at the Blue Hall, where she works as a cleaner. She was always there—attending programmes, encouraging others, and ensuring that when we needed people to show up, she would be among the first. Her commitment became even clearer when political interference forced us out of our previous venue. Umama uYakobi stepped forward, determined to help us find a new space. “I believe in what you are fighting for,” she said. “The people of Town Two need you as much as you need them.” And help us she did.

Behind the Strength

As programmes resumed, we learned more about the woman behind the title. She spoke candidly about the pain of losing a child: “There is no greater pain than losing the child you carried for eight months.” Her son died in a car accident while travelling to the Eastern Cape—a sudden, devastating loss that shook her family. Her husband is unemployed, and she shares her home with her daughter, two grandsons, and nephews. Though her daughter works, the burden of running the household falls heavily on her shoulders.

Grief could have broken her, but instead, she found solace and strength in community. “If it had not been for The Great People of South Africa,” she often says, “I would have lost myself in my grief.” This support network became her lifeline, helping her navigate the darkest moments.

A Driver of Change

Umama uYakobi is more than a participant—she is an activist. She attends every programme she hears about, helps with soup kitchens, and shares information about learnerships with the youth. She is the friend every mother and grandmother turns to, the person young people seek when they need guidance. Her influence ripples through Town Two, creating connections and opportunities where none existed before.

Her story is one of courage and commitment. Despite personal loss and systemic challenges, she refuses to give up on her community. She embodies hope, holding fast to the belief that things will get better—even when the odds seem insurmountable.

 Why Her Story Matters

Umama uYakobi’s journey is a testament to the power of grassroots activism and faith. It highlights the critical role of women in driving social change, even in environments plagued by poverty and violence. Her resilience reminds us that transformation begins with individuals who refuse to surrender to despair.

Through partnerships like WVLSA and organisations such as The Great People of South Africa, communities like Town Two are finding pathways to empowerment. These programmes do more than provide services—they restore dignity, build solidarity, and create spaces where voices like Umama uYakobi’s can inspire others.

By: Agnes Nguta