CHILD AND YOUTH CARE WORK IS A CALLING BY HEART, NOT JUST A PROFESSION

• Noxolo Shazi’s dedication as a Child and Youth Care Worker is deeply personal, driven by her own experiences of poverty and lack of educational opportunities in Kwa-Zulu Natal. Her commitment is rooted in a profound desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable young people.

• Shazi’s approach to child care is holistic, focusing on the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual development of children. She views herself as a “wounded healer,” bringing empathy and compassion to her role, recognizing the shared humanity and vulnerabilities between herself and those she serves. 

• Her grassroots efforts, including assisting with homework, facilitating developmental programs, and volunteering in her community, reflect her belief in the power of individual acts of kindness. Noxolo Shazi embodies the spirit of International Child and Youth Care Workers Week, highlighting the crucial role these professionals play in nurturing and empowering young people.

By Matlaba Machete

Noxolo Shazi’s commitment to empowering and supporting children and youth is truly inspiring. It’s evident that her work as a Child and Youth Care Worker is not just a job but a deep-seated calling rooted in her own experiences and the desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable young people.

Her understanding of the holistic development of children, encompassing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual growth, reflects a profound commitment to nurturing the whole individual. Viewing herself as a “wounded healer” underscores the empathy and compassion she brings to her role, recognising the shared humanity and vulnerabilities between herself and those she serves.

Shazi’s upbringing in Kwa-Zulu Natal, marked by poverty and a lack of educational opportunities, served as a catalyst for her dedication to supporting others. Her grassroots efforts, from assisting with homework to facilitating developmental programmes and volunteering in her community, exemplify her belief in the power of individual acts of kindness and the ripple effect they can have on entire communities.

Her commitment to helping one child at a time and one community at a time speaks volumes about her values and vision for a more equitable and nurturing society. Noxolo Shazi embodies the spirit of International Child and Youth Care Workers Week, reminding us of the invaluable role these professionals play in shaping the future and fostering environments where all young people can thrive.