Kariega’s Tamsanqa Nkevu, a respected community leader from KwaNobuhle in Kariega, has once again made his community proud by winning not one, but two prestigious awards at the South African Heroes Awards 2024. Last month, Nkevu was nominated for the Youth Empowerment Category, and he has now scooped the award, along with the ultimate Community Builder of the Year 2024 Award.
Nkevu, who is a reverend, skilled martial artist, and former lecturer, has been recognised for his commitment to safeguarding and empowering the youth in his community. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, as he previously shared with the UD Express insights about his work and nominations.
In his acceptance speech, Nkevu expressed his gratitude and shared his journey to winning these awards.
“There were two categories up for grabs. There is the Category for which we all get nominated. There is also the Award for Community Builder of the Year 2024 which goes to the one who stands out from the rest by going above and beyond. To win this particular category, you have to receive votes from your fellow nominees.
He added,
Nkevu’s journey began in 2020 when he took it upon himself to ensure the safety of learners on their way to school. After being forced into early retirement due to a car accident, he felt it was a crime to sit and waste away, so he thought of ways to best give back to his community, especially young people, who are his passion. He fearlessly confronted criminals, putting his own life at risk, to create a secure environment for children. His martial arts training played a significant role in his ability to protect the learners.
“In the five years I have been here, not a single learner got raped, robbed, or attacked on their way to school,” he said previously.
Beyond ensuring safety, Nkevu provides vital support to learners from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. He buys them school uniforms, shoes, and even sends them to their matric dance. His guidance and assistance are sought by schools, and he is often called upon to intervene during school robberies and hijackings.
“When people need police assistance in my community, they phone me. They phone me when they need ambulances, firefighters, or help with service delivery issues,” he explained, illustrating the trust and respect he has earned. He further stressed that he, in no way, takes the place of the police or emergency services; instead, he helps his community members get access to them.
“We are the change that we want to see in our community. These young people and our children are dependent on us to create paths for them that will lead to success in life.”
The South African Hero Awards took place at the Market Theatre in Johannesburg on September 21, and Nkevu hopes this victory will bring immense pride to the Eastern Cape.
