“Since we started this program, peace is our priority. We are the hope for our families and communities.”
December 17, 2025 – As the holiday season approaches and the year draws to a close, WPDI South Africa celebrated a powerful week with the graduation of 500+ beneficiaries, each made possible through the continued support of BNP Paribas, RCS Group, the L’Oréal Fund for Women, and the City of Cape Town. Across the Cape Flats, these ceremonies marked moments of pride, reflection, and transformation for communities committed to building peace and opportunity.
Youth and Women Entrepreneurs Rising in the Cape Flats
In the Cape Flats, 310 unemployed women and youth graduated from WPDI’s Business & Entrepreneurship and Women Livelihood Program, a celebration attended by Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews, whose ongoing commitment to local economic empowerment underscored the moment. With support from BNP Paribas, l’Oréal, and RCS Group, this program has become a cornerstone for individuals seeking stability and independence through entrepreneurship. Many graduates arrived with uncertainty but left with renewed confidence and clear direction.
Beneficiary Aaminah Soeker reflected, “When I started, I was lost, confused, and doubting myself. Through WPDI, I’ve gained knowledge, confidence, and the courage to chase my dreams fearlessly.”
Women’s Livelihood Pitch Competition winner Beanca Campher shared, “WPDI has restored my self-worth… building a legacy for my family.”
Another training participant, Kim Smith, noted, “In the very first week, I realized I’d been underselling myself.” as Leeroy, another participant, added, “This Business Course happened at the right time. I am thankful for everything.”
Peace Education Graduation at Xolani Primary School, Gugulethu
In Gugulethu, 149 learners celebrated completing WPDI’s peace education program, an initiative supported by BNP Paribas and RCS Group. The ceremony was attended by RCS CEO Regan Adams, who came to honour the school’s young peacebuilders. The program has steadily transformed the school’s culture, equipping learners and teachers with tools to reduce conflict, strengthen communication, and build a more supportive learning environment.
Principal Magqabi shared, “Since the introduction of the program, we have seen a clear shift. One of the biggest improvements has been in addressing bullying.”
Addressing the students, Regan Adams said, “When I look at all of you, I see so much potential. You can change the cycle of violence.”
Grade 6 learner Sibongongcwele Yohane added, “Since we have started this program, peace is now our first priority. We are the hope for our families and communities.”
Peacebuilding Behind Bars at Pollsmoor Prison
This week concluded with a major milestone at Pollsmoor Prison, where WPDI reached its goal of training 200 correctional officers in peacebuilding and mediation for the year. The final cohort of 50 officers, along with 15 senior managers, graduated during a ceremony supported by RCS Group and BNP Paribas. Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews and RCS CEO Regan Adams joined the celebration, recognizing the officers’ dedication to strengthening safety, dignity, and rehabilitation within one of the country’s most complex correctional environments.
The program has strengthened staff resilience, introduced structured mediation practices, and reinforced a shared understanding that peace can take root even in high-tension settings.
Spiritual Care Manager Lewis Davids reflected, “Working with WPDI presents an excellent opportunity to empower our prison officials, to plant the seed of peace with our officials first.”
Regan Adams noted, “This is a great way to end the cycle of violence. It is transformative for the prison system.”
Officer Renier Frederick shared, “This approach allowed us to resolve a potentially dangerous standoff without injury to staff or inmates.”
Together, these celebrations sent a unified message: peace grows when communities, institutions, and leaders join hands, and this week, that collective progress was unmistakable.
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