CHIEF CHARLES DANIELS
My journey in community activism began in the 1980s, following a deeply unsettling experience that left a lasting impression on me. After a long day at the hospital with my mother and sister, we stopped at a café to buy fish and chips. My mother, weary from the walk, asked if we could sit down inside. My sister pointed to a table, but the white woman behind the counter, with clear contempt, told us we could not sit inside and had to eat on the pavement outside. As a young man, this moment shook me to the core and ignited a determination within me to contribute to meaningful change in our society.
Motivated by this experience, I dedicated my life to ensuring that our young men and women have the opportunities to develop the skills needed for a better future. Today, many of our youth lack the skills necessary to thrive, and their parents, who once had the expertise, are unable to pass these skills on due to various socio-economic challenges.
With over 20 years of experience in the retail sector, including 10 years as a manager at Pick n Pay, where I managed a department generating R4 million per month and supervised over 30 staff members, I have gained invaluable insights into leadership and management. Additionally, I spent 17 years working in the health department, coordinating teams across various facilities and serving as a qualified HIV and TB counselor.
I have played a pivotal role in several community projects, including a successful campaign to rename Concert Boulevard to Joe Marks Avenue in honor of a Khoisan leader and community activist. I also initiated and managed an 814 housing project in partnership with the City of Cape Town, overseeing the phased disbursement of subsidies to beneficiaries as they built their homes. In Lavender Hill, I led an initiative to employ 100 gang members for a flat maintenance project, providing them with an opportunity to positively contribute to their community.
My commitment to community development extends to my involvement in various forums. I served as Chairperson of the School Governing Body for 10 years, was a member of the Police Forum for 3 years, and contributed to the Health Committee. I believe that with increased funding and resources, we can significantly uplift our communities and restore the morale of our people.
How My Skills Can Help with Skills Development in Our Community
My extensive experience in retail management, project coordination, and community activism equips me with the skills necessary to lead and implement effective skills development programs in our community. I understand the importance of structured training and mentorship, particularly for our youth, who are the future custodians of our culture and heritage.
Through my work, I have demonstrated the ability to manage large teams, oversee complex projects, and secure funding and resources for community initiatives. By leveraging these skills, I aim to create opportunities for our people to acquire the practical skills needed to improve their living standards and preserve our cultural identity. My goal is to empower the next generation with the tools they need to succeed, ensuring that our community thrives both economically and culturally.