'Your future’s not in a gang’

HOPE landed literally in Manenberg this week when a SAPS helicopter touched down at Phoenix High School for the fourth annual Manenberg career expo.

The event, hosted by Manenberg SAPS, the Western Cape Education Department and Safe Schools, gave learners a taste of careers beyond the streets, showing them that there’s more to life than gangs and guns.

Learners from five local high schools Phoenix, Manenberg High, Silverstream, Heideveld and Cathkin were present.

SAPS members showed off exciting career paths, including forensics, the Anti-Gang Unit, crime scene experts, the diving unit and the metro police equestrian team.

Station Commander Brigadier Jayce Naidoo told the laaities and meisies straight: “Join SAPS, not gangs. We want to change how the world sees Manenberg.”

Colleges and training institutions were also there, helping the youth to dream big and plan beyond matric.

Naidoo added that police officials believe in the youth of today and we want to give every young person a fighting chance. 

The exhibition formed part of SAPS’ 2025 Anti-Gang and Gender-Based Violence Strategy, aimed at empowering youth and tackling social ills from the ground up.

With choppers, cops and community spirit in full force, learners walked away inspired knowing they’re seen, supported, and capable of changing the face of Manenberg.