TWO youths from Khayelitsha have brought the reality of a gangster’s lifestyle alive!
The two, Sibulelo Daweti (29) and Wandisile Nqeketho (27), are co-founders of 18 Gangster Museum.
Sibulelo and Wandisile have split a shipping container in two – one a jail cell and the other a poster exhibition.
The poster exhibition is similar to those used in primary school classrooms and is used to teach kids and tourists about gangsterism in Mzansi.
The other section is the replica of a prison cell and is used to show kids where they will end up if they join gangs.
The 18 Gangster Museum is located at Lookout Hill, Cape Town’s biggest township.
It is here that Sibulelo and Wandisile share their life experiences as former members of a gang.
Sibulelo said: “I have seen the ugly side of belonging to a gang, inflicting pain on innocent people and extorting from them.
“I was once in a gang called D12 and I know how it can affect kids.”
The ‘jail cell’ has been brought to life in the museum with a bunk bed, a small sink and a toilet.
The walls are inscribed with graffiti relating to gangs. The drawings and messages range from regret to revelling in gangs like the 28s.
“I’m sorry mama, forgive me,” is one striking message on the wall.
Wandisile said they have noticed more kids becoming gangsters at a younger age. The two work with primary schools and other organisations in the area. They also invite former gangsters and convicts to talk to the kids about jail and the consequences of joining gangs.
Wandisile told Daily Sun: “Gangs are destroying the future of young kids. This is to stop them from getting involved in these activities.
Xola Jack, a parent from Khayelitsha, said: “The initiative by these guys is very important as it focuses on young kids.
“It might help to decrease the appeal of gangs.”
