Fifteen homeless men, who participated in a pilot initiative by The Haven Night Shelter, graduated on Saturday after undergoing training to become security guards.
Their training commenced on Sunday, January 7, at the Rotary Camp in Glencairn. The organization collaborated with two security firms in December of the previous year to offer basic security training to men from The Haven’s shelters in Kalk Bay, Retreat, and Napier.
During the festive season, these men worked alongside trained security officers from one of the security companies to patrol Fish Hoek CBD as part of the pilot project.
Subsequently, another security company provided the men with training compliant with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA), firearm training, and basic life-support training.
The ceremony at the Rotary Camp hall was filled with applause as the men proudly marched in to receive their custom-made trophies and certificates.
Ralton Fillies, aged 53 and residing at the Kalk Bay shelter, shared his journey from homelessness and addiction to his current state of being clean for over a year. He expressed excitement for the future and a sense of pride in his accomplishments, emphasizing the importance of endurance and trusting the process.
Jarod Klaas, aged 26 from the Napier shelter, received recognition as the “best firearms student” for achieving perfect scores in every category. Despite finding firearms training challenging initially, he credited his improvement to mentorship from Giovanni Rossi, the boss of the security company.
Max Egan-Fowler, aged 25, residing at the Kalk Bay shelter, was awarded the title of “top student.” He reflected on his journey and highlighted the program’s role in motivating him to persevere and recognize his potential.
Instructor Liam Eley-Weyers praised the men for their progress, noting their initial slow start but eventual strong finish, particularly in mastering marching techniques.
Giovanni Rossi expressed pride in the men’s achievements, acknowledging their remarkable transformation.
Shaddie Valaydum, CEO of The Haven Night Shelter, lauded the program as a groundbreaking endeavor since the shelter’s establishment in 1978. He outlined future plans to enroll ten homeless individuals in a panel-beating course and apprenticeship, with additional projects focusing on hydroponics for therapeutic benefits and employment opportunities.
Valaydum emphasized the organization’s commitment to empowering the homeless community by identifying their passions and facilitating their personal growth and professional development.
