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Give A Hand Announces Relief Effort for Victims of 2024 Kenya Floods

300,000 Are Homeless, Hungry: The 'Right' Time to Help is Right Now

FRESNO, Calif., Oct. 8, 2024 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) –– In the wake of destructive flooding in Kenya and parts of Tanzania, East Africa this spring, nonprofit organization Give A Hand has issued a call for an intensive relief effort to aid impacted families. Give A Hand executives said that while a minimal amount of aid is trickling through, hundreds of thousands of flood victims remain in need.

Photo caption: Pictured: Florence Otieno Ogundo, Founder, Orongo Widows and Orphans Group working with Give A Hand to help victims of the Kenya floods.

“Raising awareness is our goal,” said Dr. Nelson Pichardo, Executive Director of Give A Hand. “The press isn’t really covering this. Nobody knows what’s going on and how many parents and their children are still homeless and starving in Kenya.”

The floods that rocked Kenya and toppled traditionally-built homes began in April and have resulted in nearly 315 deaths, at least 188 people injured, 38 still missing and nearly 300,000 homeless, according to United Nations OCHA.

“Many of these families are single-parent households: a mother and her children,” Pichardo pointed out. “They were already struggling before the flooding. These floods literally wiped houses out. Now these families have no place to go, and with a recent cholera outbreak, they need not just food and shelter but medical supplies. There’s a serious need.”

While the United Nations has allocated funds to aid the victims, “It’s not enough,” noted Pichardo. “These people have lost everything.”

MASSIVE RELIEF EFFORT IS UNDERWAY: “WE WANTED TO GIVE BACK”

Since its initial relief efforts through its portal giveahand.site, where donors are able to pledge aid, Give A Hand has raised approximately $24,000, executives noted.

“We have huge construction trucks going into the area because nothing else can get in,” Pichardo noted. The area remains impassable by other modes of transportation, he said, and families are stranded. “People don’t know where to go.”

Give A Hand, Inc. was born through generous seed money and support from World Workforce International, an international labor union, and Positiviti Lending, an international micro-lending platform that enables Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to thrive without outside assistance.

Give A Hand was created from our belief that individuals can work hard and pull themselves out of poverty. Our motto is: “We provide the opportunity; the individual creates the outcome.”

Pichardo noted, “We are creating long-term solutions to poverty through empowering, teaching skills, and lifting barriers to private entrepreneurship.”

But right now, “The people of Kenya are truly suffering,” Pichardo said. “So we organized this relief effort and are asking for help from people worldwide.”

HOW TO DONATE

With thousands of families still in need, Give A Hand is already busy delivering much-needed necessities whenever and wherever it can, company executives said.

Give A Hand currently has a goal of raising $2 million to give shelter, food and medicine to the flood victims.

“We hope to reach our final goal by Thanksgiving,” said Pichardo. “It would be a beautiful way to say ‘thank you’ to our generous donors. But we need to start right now.”

Individuals looking to help the relief effort can visit https://www.giveahand.site/landing/. Every dollar counts, and “every day that passes is critical,” according to Give A Hand executives.

GIVING THANKS: “GIVE A HAND (IS EASING) OUR BURDEN”

As a poignant testimonial to these efforts, affected families have already begun expressing their gratitude via emails to the organization.

“Managing a household of eight, the support from Give A Hand was truly a lifeline during the flood crisis,” said Jacob Omandi. The supplies provided not only sustained us, but also provided a sense of security amidst the challenges we faced.”

“With five children to look after, the flood disaster left us without basic necessities and in a state of uncertainty,” expressed Sharon Anyango. “(Give A Hand’s) generosity brought a sense of relief and gratitude to our hearts.”

And Austine Owino wrote, “Ensuring (my six children’s) wellbeing amidst the flood crisis was my top priority. The assistance from Give A Hand greatly eased our burden.”

While it’s a great start, “Every day, people are hungry and in need of medical care,” Pichardo pointed out. “The ‘right’ time to help is right now.”

ABOUT GIVE A HAND:

Based in Fresno, California, Give A Hand’s mission and vision is to ameliorate poverty by providing individuals with knowledge and access to financial services and literacy, and to overcome basic human needs that impede access to such knowledge.

Give A Hand achieves its goals by creating and delivering initiatives in different regions or countries in the world, Kenya is their first effort. These initiatives create access to microfinance services, financial literacy and the creation of micro-businesses. It also addresses basic needs such as food, water, and education because they present a barrier to successfully implement these microfinance and financial literacy interventions.

For more information or to donate visit https://www.giveahand.site/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (Vimeo) https://vimeo.com/1016193767

PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-1008-s2p-gah-ogundo-300dpi.jpg

Photo caption: Pictured: Florence Otieno Ogundo, Founder, Orongo Widows and Orphans Group working with Give A Hand to help victims of the Kenya floods.

NEWS SOURCE: Give A Hand

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Give A Hand), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/give-a-hand-announces-relief-effort-for-victims-of-2024-kenya-floods/

Scientology Tools for Life Empower 31,000 South Africans to Help

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- With more than 31,000 South Africans trained on the 19 Scientology Tools for Life courses, the Scientology Volunteer Ministers are well on the way to achieving their purpose: to empower the people of South Africa.

"True empowerment begins when individuals have the power to change their own lives and the lives of others," says Sandile Hlayisi, chairperson of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa. "We have witnessed the power of this simple yet profound training."

The Scientology Tools for Life were developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard in the mid-1970s for the training of Scientology Volunteer Ministers. Graduates use these skills to serve their communities, improve educational standards, respond to emergencies and disasters, launch successful businesses and create new opportunities for themselves and others. "The essence of the Scientology Tools for Life," says Hlayisi, "is that they equip people with the skills they need to thrive."

The Scientology Volunteer Ministers began providing Scientology Tools for Life workshops in 2019 at Castle Kyalami in Johannesburg, South Africa, Scientology continental headquarters for Africa. These courses provide practical skills that ignite meaningful change, as these graduate testimonials illustrate:

* Boitumelo Maswanganye of Soshanguve began an after-school initiative for children struggling to read. "It not only rehabilitates learners who have given up but encourages them to pursue further studies," she says. "Children who once couldn't read are now achieving over 90 percent in school tests. It's magical."

* "This Tools for Life skills program is not just theoretical training," said the station manager of Emergency Medical Services of Westonaria, a town in the Rand West City municipality. He sees this training as vital to prevent burnout and restore the well-being of his staff. EMS workers are often traumatized in their efforts to save lives. "We also need help," he said. And they have received that help from the Scientology Tools for Life.

* For many, like Irene Moemise, the program provided a lifeline in a time of need. After losing her job during the COVID-19 pandemic, Moemise struggled despite her master's degree. "The Tools for Life program gave me a sense of direction and purpose," she says. With newfound confidence, she opened Le'Bakery in Meadowlands, a thriving bakery that has quickly become a community favorite. "I went from being unemployed to an employer, turning my passion into a business that feeds my community and my soul."

Each week, new graduates turn dreams into reality and uplift their families and communities.

"We welcome everyone, regardless of their background," says Hlayisi. "This training is for all-it transcends religion, profession, race and circumstance. Everyone deserves the chance to succeed."

Mr. Hubbard described the Volunteer Minister as "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." Their creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

Their motto is, no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

Castle Kyalami serves as a home for the community and a nexus for all who share the goal of bettering the lives of individuals and strengthening communities across the region, nation and all of Africa. Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige dedicated Kyalami Castle on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming Mr. Hubbard's belief that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

For the full impact of the South African Volunteer Ministers' pandemic response, watch the award-winning documentary Operation: Do Something About It. Produced by Scientology Media Productions, the film is available on the Scientology Network on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.youtube.com/@vmafrica

https://www.castlekyalami.org.za/about-us/working-together-to-build-a-better-and-safer-world.html

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

With more than 31,000 South Africans trained on the 19 Scientology Tools for Life courses, the Scientology Volunteer Ministers are well on the way to achieving their purpose: to empower the people of South Africa.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Rallying With The Way to Happiness and its Message of Human Understanding and Peace to Help Avert Predicted Riots During South Africa’s Elections

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- A diverse and eclectic team of volunteers mobilized on election day, May 29, at Castle Kyalami, Scientology headquarters for Africa. More than 400 joined the initiative to promote a fair and peaceful election with the precepts of The Way to Happiness, the nonreligious common-sense guide to better living written by author, humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. They wanted to do their part to back up officials, police, churches and other nonprofits that were working to ensure a peaceful election and keep the democratic process working.

In addition to Scientologists who gathered to carry out the project, teams included pastors, bishops, archbishops, and members of diverse denominations. They were joined by influencers, prominent community leaders, concerned businesspeople, and UN International Ambassadors for Peace. Each volunteer collected sets of The Way to Happiness booklets as they headed out to 80 polling stations across the country. They delivered more than 66,000 copies, presenting each booklet personally to individuals and encouraging them to pass them on to others to share the message of peace and empowerment.

Volunteers described the response to The Way to Happiness as "transformational" - both for themselves and those receiving the booklets.

Many read the booklet while waiting in line at their polling place and returned to the volunteers to ask for more copies for family and friends.

Seeing the book's potential, some asked to establish partnerships. A mining executive asked for a presentation on how he could use The Way to Happiness in his company.

Local shops joined the movement, taking boxes of The Way to Happiness and personally handing them to customers and staff. Taxi drivers took copies to hand to passengers.

Several people who volunteered with the program for the first time that day expressed their delight at seeing the book's impact on those receiving it.

A TV station interviewed one of the campaign organizers. The reporter was taken aback to learn that the volunteers were doing this to ensure happy and safe elections. He realized the campaign promotes human understanding, tolerance, social cohesion, and a positive personal outlook for the future.

One pastor, who was serving as an external expert in cross-checking election results, expressed how moved he was by the program. This is exactly the kind of practical initiative every church needs for its congregation, he said.

All concerned were thrilled to learn that despite apprehension that riots might erupt at the polls, the voting was peaceful. Not a single act of violence was reported. They were proud to have done their part and contributed to bringing this about along with people of goodwill across the nation.

The future still holds many challenges, including how South Africa will deal with the election results, in which no party won a majority. But the campaign brought home to many that there is every reason to be optimistic - that it is in their hands to fulfill Mandela's vision of a democratic and free society in which all persons can live together in harmony and with equal opportunities.

In the first chapter of The Way to Happiness, L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "You are important to other people. You are listened to. You can influence others. The happiness or unhappiness of others you could name is important to you. Without too much trouble, using this book, you can help them survive and lead happier lives. While no one can guarantee that anyone else can be happy, their chances of survival and happiness can be improved. And with theirs, yours will be."

The Way to Happiness fills the moral vacuum in an increasingly materialistic society. It contains 21 basic principles that guide one to a better quality of life. This code of conduct can be followed by anyone of any race, color, or creed and works to restore the bonds that unite humankind.

To learn more about how changemakers of all nationalities and faiths use The Way to Happiness to uplift society, watch episodes of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.thewaytohappiness.org

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/FN34zm5375Y?si=FoKnEtWhU-UwqhvB

A diverse and eclectic team of volunteers mobilized on election day, May 29, at Castle Kyalami, Scientology headquarters for Africa. More than 400 joined the initiative to promote a fair and peaceful election with the precepts of The Way to Happiness, the nonreligious common-sense guide to better living written by author, humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Citizens Commission on Human Rights Exhibit in South African Township Exposes Racism and Abuse in the Psychiatric Industry

DIEPSLOOT, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- Citizens Commission on Human Rights South Africa brought the Psychiatry: An Industry of Death Exhibit to Diepsloot, a densely populated township in Gauteng, South Africa. The exhibit, held April 19 to 26, educated officials, business owners, members of African royalty and residents on human rights abuse, racism and harmful practices that pervade psychiatry, including its role in promoting racism.

Like many South African townships, Diepsloot suffers from poverty and substandard living conditions. The townships were the product of apartheid, the political system implemented in 1948 and continued until ended by the election of 1994. Townships were part of the government's solution to enforcing racial segregation. But few visiting the exhibit were aware of psychiatry's role in apartheid. Many were shocked to learn that psychiatry was behind the pseudoscience known as "eugenics" that promoted "improving" the human race through selective breeding and sterilization.

German psychiatrist Eugen Fischer (1874-1967) experimented on native people in concentration camps on Shark Island in a German colony that is now part of Namibia. His macabre "research" included decapitating victims and sending their skulls to Germany so psychiatrists could study so-called "inferior races."

Fischer recommended outlawing interracial marriage, which was adopted in 1912 throughout African German colonies. It was these same false psychiatric theories that gave the government of South Africa the "legitimacy" it needed to implement apartheid.

The exhibit also raised awareness of the dangers of drugging children with substances whose side effects are known to increase violence and suicidality.

CCHR aims to educate parents, caregivers, and mental health professionals throughout South Africa. Concerned visitors included ward councilors, police officials, pastors, and community leaders. Many pledged their support of CCHR's efforts with 98 signing up to volunteer for the local CCHR chapter. Victims shared their own experiences of abuse in the mental health field and expressed relief that CCHR is taking action to help.

CCHR South Africa is a nonprofit organization dedicated to investigating and exposing human rights violations in the mental health field. Its work is inspired by visionary and humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard who believed that human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream.

For more information visit the website of Citizens Commission on Human Rights or watch a series of documentaries on the Scientology Network:

Psychiatry: An Industry of Death

Therapy or Torture: The Truth About Electroshock

The Marketing of Madness

Or contact the nearest Scientology Church or Mission to find or begin a new chapter of CCHR.

Citizens Commission on Human Rights was cofounded in 1969 by professor of psychiatry Dr. Thomas Szasz and the Church of Scientology. With headquarters in Los Angeles, California, CCHR International guides a global human rights advocacy network of some 180 chapters across more than 30 nations. CCHR Commissioners include physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, lawyers, legislators, government officials, educators and civil rights representatives.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.cchr.org

https://www.cchrint.org

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/cchr-documentaries/psychiatry-an-industry-of-death.html

Citizens Commission on Human Rights South Africa brought the Psychiatry: An Industry of Death Exhibit to Diepsloot, a densely populated township in Gauteng, South Africa. The exhibit, held April 19 to 26, educated officials, business owners, members of African royalty and residents on human rights abuse, racism and harmful practices that pervade psychiatry, including its role in promoting racism.

Related link: https://www.cchr.org/

Scientology Empowerment Seminar Ignites Passion in the Hearts of South African Educators

MIDRAND, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- In South Africa, a country where effective education is key to reversing centuries of neglect and oppression, Scientology Volunteer Ministers Educator Empowerment Seminars aim to create significant change.

"I had actually given up as a teacher and found no joy in my profession anymore," admitted an educator who attended a recent Volunteer Ministers Empowerment Seminar at Castle Kyalami in Midrand, South Africa. "I am conscious enough to admit that I was just teaching for the sake of teaching and that I was actually not helping anyone. After seeing the Tools for Life, I have rekindled my purpose as a teacher and I now know what I need to do. You have no idea how much you have done for me."

In November 2023, a Harvard University report, "Growth Through Inclusion in South Africa," highlighted the country's struggle to match the optimism of its post-apartheid era with results. "Income per capita has been falling for over a decade," it states. "Unemployment at over 33 percent is the world's highest, and youth unemployment exceeds 60 percent. Poverty has risen to 55.5 percent based on the national poverty line."

Whatever other factors contribute to these stark findings, effective education is vital to reversing these conditions and fostering personal and social change. That is what makes these Volunteer Ministers Empowerment Seminars so important.

"This is the most comprehensive set of life skills I have ever come across," said one of the educators on completing the seminar. "This will be incredibly beneficial to the education sector. I am so glad I came here."

"I have spent years studying how to be a better educator for my students," said an attendee who is pursuing a master's degree in education. "Everything I ever needed is in the Tools for Life."

"This is the best workshop I have ever attended period," said another.

Castle Kyalami was dedicated on New Year's Day 2019 by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige. Just over a year later, with the pandemic, the castle became the center of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers movement and their crusade to ensure the safety and security of the people of South Africa.

South Africa's Scientology Volunteer Ministers contributed millions of volunteer hours on the front lines throughout the pandemic, working with authorities to curb the spread of the virus.

Since then, the nation's Volunteer Ministers have focused on outreach in every sector of society. They share the technology developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard for the Volunteer Ministers Program, as contained in the Scientology Tools for Life. More than 26,000 new Volunteer Ministers have completed these 19 courses in South Africa and are using what they have learned to better the lives of friends, families, associates and communities.

It is the educator who empowers future generations, so these Educator Empowerment Seminars stand to create a ripple effect of personal and social betterment that can impact every level of society. In so doing, they will help achieve the vision of L. Ron Hubbard for the future of this country. He believed: "From Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

For the full impact of South Africa's Scientology Volunteer Ministers, watch the new feature-length documentary Operation: Do Something About It. Produced by Scientology Media Productions, the film is available on the Scientology Network on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse, and streams at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps, and via the Roku, Amazon Fire, and Apple TV platforms.

Since launching with an introduction by Mr. David Miscavige in March 2018, the Scientology Network has been viewed in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Scientology Network launches its new season Monday, April 15.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.castlekyalami.org.za/

MULTIMEDIA

https://www.youtube.com/@vmafrica

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

https://www.scientology.tv/new-season-2024/

In South Africa, a country where effective education is key to reversing centuries of neglect and oppression, Scientology Volunteer Ministers Educator Empowerment Seminars aim to create significant change.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Tools for Life: Empowering South African Officials to Make a Difference at the Grassroots Level

GAUTENG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- Councillor Sibongile Soxuza, deeply troubled by the pervasive issues of domestic abuse, drug addiction, poverty, corruption and crime within her communities, recognized the urgent need for action. As speaker of the council, responsible for nearly a million residents, she took a personal stand to effect change. Seeking a program that could deliver tangible results, she turned to the Scientology Volunteer Ministers life skills training program, reaching out to the Volunteer Ministers South Africa headquarters at Castle Kyalami in Midrand. The result? A comprehensive and effective training initiative for 350 Ward Committee members.

These Ward councillors, facing daily challenges, eagerly embraced the opportunity for change. Completing the 19 Tools for Life courses, they acquired a diverse array of skills-from resolving conflicts and tackling poverty and drug abuse to empowering youth, improving literacy, communication and ethical standards.

"It was more than I expected," said one councillor, while another hailed it as the catalyst for constructive dialogue between the community and the municipality. Chief Ward Committee Coordinator Mr. Tefo Molakeng, instrumental in organizing the program, affirmed its potential to enhance lives. "This training will help them make lives better," he said.

In recognition of the program's transformative impact, Cllr. Soxuza extended her congratulations to the graduates and expressed her intent to establish a "lifelong partnership" with the Scientology Volunteer Ministers.

"Real community development begins with empowerment," said Sandile Hlayisi, chairperson of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa who delivered the training. "You first have to equip people with skills they can use to bring relief to themselves and others. We provide this training because we believe all our communities should be unified, empowered and prosperous."

Scientology Tools for Life training is available free of charge on the Scientology website in 20 languages, including Sotho, Zulu and Xhosa. They contain the technology developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard for the Volunteer Ministers program. Mr. Hubbard described the Volunteer Minister as "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." They live by the creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

For the full impact of South Africa's Scientology Volunteer Ministers, watch the new feature-length documentary Operation: Do Something About It. Produced by Scientology Media Productions, the film is available on the Scientology Network on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse, and streams at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps, and via the Roku, Amazon Fire, and Apple TV platforms.

Since launching with an introduction by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in March 2018, the Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

https://www.scientology.org/20-21/#scientology-volunteer-ministers-help-at-risk-populations-in-south-africa

https://www.castlekyalami.org.za/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6sxsSt2Srg

https://www.scientology.org/20-21/#scientology-volunteer-ministers-help-at-risk-populations-in-south-africa

Councillor Sibongile Soxuza, deeply troubled by the pervasive issues of domestic abuse, drug addiction, poverty, corruption and crime within her communities, recognized the urgent need for action. As speaker of the council, responsible for nearly a million residents, she took a personal stand to effect change. Seeking a program that could deliver tangible results, she turned to the Scientology Volunteer Ministers life skills training program.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Tools for Life Empower the South African ‘Green Angels,’ The Men and Women of the Gauteng Emergency Medical Services

MIDRAND, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- Through a series of seminars at Castle Kyalami in Midrand, South Africa, the Scientology Volunteer Ministers are empowering employees of the Gauteng Department of Health. These healthcare workers, in their bright green uniforms, have become known as the province's "Green Angels," because they, along with staff of affiliated chaplaincy and faith-based organizations who also attended the training, put their lives on the line to help others.

Ms. Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, Member of the Executive Council of the Gauteng Department of Health, who endorsed the partnership between her department and the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, attended a ceremony last month where she congratulated 230 graduates of the program. She thanked the Scientology Volunteer Ministers "for their selflessness and humanitarian intervention," and for equipping her staff "with tools to bring change to society." For the more than 700 Gauteng Department of Health staff who have completed the program so far, "this training has brought change in their lives, and this needs to be done on a broad scale."

"This Tools for Life skills program is not just theoretical training," said the station manager of Emergency Medical Services of Westonaria, a town in the Rand West City municipality. In a video on the YouTube channel of the Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, he said these courses "address real, daily life challenges." He sees this training as vital to prevent burnout and restore the well-being of his staff. EMS workers are often traumatized in their efforts to save lives. "We also need help," he said. And they have received that help from the Scientology Tools for Life.

The assistant director of a health and wellness organization shared the story of a colleague whose son was an addict. His impact on the family was devastating; his parents were on the brink of divorce. After his mother attended the Scientology Tools for Life training, she personally mentored him through the 19 courses. On completing them, he told her, "Mama, I'm ready to go to rehab. I want to change my life."

A pastor who serves as secretary general of a faith-based organization said that before taking part in the program, he thought he knew it all. But he soon realized this was something he needed to learn and use. The training sharpened his leadership and communication skills. "I saw how I could be a better person, a better leader in the work I do."

"The Tools for Life made me more resilient," said the chief chaplain of the Gauteng Department of Health. This program helped him find "the knowledge and strength that I can face more pressure going forward." He expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Department of Health for finding and making these tools available to him and his staff.

The graduates of this partnership between the Scientology Volunteer Ministers and the Gauteng Department of Health join more than 25,000 South Africans who have completed the 19 Scientology Tools for Life Courses and are using the skills they have gained to serve their communities. Available free of charge in 20 languages, including Sotho, Zulu, and Xhosa, these courses train the individual in technology developed for the Volunteer Ministers program by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who referred to the Volunteer Minister as "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." They subscribe to the creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

For the full impact of South Africa's Scientology Volunteer Ministers, watch the new feature-length documentary Operation: Do Something About It. Produced by Scientology Media Productions, the film is available on the Scientology Network on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse, and streams at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps, and via the Roku, Amazon Fire, and Apple TV platforms.

Since launching with an introduction by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in March 2018, the Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Over the past three years, the network has introduced more than 20 million new people to Scientology.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

https://www.youtube.com/@vmafrica

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

https://www.youtube.com/@vmafrica

https://youtu.be/klfSXDlbgqs?si=7ATe904WlnAHzCNM

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

https://youtu.be/klfSXDlbgqs?si=7ATe904WlnAHzCNM

Through a series of seminars at Castle Kyalami in Midrand, South Africa, the Scientology Volunteer Ministers are empowering employees of the Gauteng Department of Health. These healthcare workers, in their bright green uniforms, have become known as the province's "Green Angels," because they, along with staff of affiliated chaplaincy and faith-based organizations who also attended the training, put their lives on the line to help others.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Thanks to a Learning Support Program Based on the Scientology Tools for Life, At-Risk Children Now Have a Chance to Succeed

SOSHANGUVE, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- "I couldn't just stand by idly while the many children in my community lost hope in education," says Juliette Mfomadi, principal of Kamogelo Daycare in Soshanguve, South Africa. Deeply concerned about the dropout rate and struggling pupils in her community, she searched for solutions and found the learner support program offered by the Scientology Volunteer Ministers. She studied the 19 Scientology Tools for Life courses and decided to use her own facility as an after-school space where pupils could come for help with their school difficulties.

"The results are spectacular and beyond expectation," she says. Pupils are thriving academically. Those who once preferred to skip school are now eager to learn.

"My son is now one of the top pupils in his class, serving as class president and a shining example of a dedicated pupil," said the parent of one of the children. "Since my son started attending this after-school program, I have witnessed remarkable changes."

Another mother expressed her joy over her daughter's new-found enjoyment of learning. "When I asked her what she wanted to do for the school holidays, she said she is going to be at the after-school care center learning instead of wasting time in the street."

Mfomadi is thrilled about the positive change she and her eight volunteers are creating. "It is a really exciting project for me and my team," she says.

She and her team are among more than 25,000 South Africans who have completed the 19 Scientology Tools for Life courses and are using the technology as Scientology Volunteer Ministers to create positive change in their communities. Available free of charge in 20 languages, including Sotho, Zulu, and Xhosa, through the Scientology website, these courses provide training on the technology developed for the program by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard.

"If one does not like the crime, cruelty, injustice and violence of this society, he can do something about it," wrote Mr. Hubbard. "He can become a Volunteer Minister and help civilize it, bring it conscience and kindness and love and freedom from travail by instilling into it trust, decency, honesty and tolerance."

For the full impact of South African Volunteer Ministers' response over the past five years, watch the new feature-length documentary Operation: Do Something About It. Produced by Scientology Media Productions, the film is available on the Scientology Network on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse, and streams at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps, and via the Roku, Amazon Fire, and Apple TV platforms.

Since launching with an introduction by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in March 2018, the Scientology Network, available in 237 countries and territories in 17 languages, has earned 135 industry awards. From 2020 to 2023, the network introduced more than 20 million new people to Scientology.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

https://www.youtube.com/@vmafrica

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

https://www.youtube.com/@vmafrica

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6sxsSt2Srg

https://www.scientology.org/20-21/#scientology-volunteer-ministers-help-at-risk-populations-in-south-africa

"I couldn't just stand by idly while the many children in my community lost hope in education," says Juliette Mfomadi, principal of Kamogelo Daycare in Soshanguve, South Africa. Deeply concerned about the dropout rate and struggling pupils in her community, she searched for solutions and found the learner support program offered by the Scientology Volunteer Ministers.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology in Africa: Five Years of Unconditional Help Since the Religion’s New Year’s Day Grand Opening

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- On the bright South African New Year's Day in 2019, when Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige dedicated the Scientology Advanced Organization and continental headquarters for Africa at Castle Kyalami, "COVID" was an obscure term known only to scientists and public health workers. But it soon entered the world's vocabulary when the first cases of the virus appeared. COVID-19 arrived in South Africa in March 2020 and the country went into lockdown.

Castle Kyalami coordinated the pandemic response of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers. Their dedication and hard work established the Scientology Volunteer Ministers among the heroes who made all the difference for the nation.

Scientology Volunteer Ministers sanitized police, fire, ambulance and paramedic vehicles, police and emergency service facilities, nearly 100,000 government facilities, and more than 11 billion square feet of spaces, train stations, whole fleets of buses. And some 14,000 taxis every day.

"The work that they've done, it is work that I'll never forget," said the executive mayor of Rand City West. "You came at a time when we were very terrified...fighting an enemy we can't even see. This ministry and this team thought of us. It's huge, the work you've done... Your presence reminds us that somebody cares about us."

The Volunteer Ministers inspired a grassroots movement. South African stakeholders, including government officials, religious leaders, police, educators and entrepreneurs, trained as Volunteer Ministers at Castle Kyalami. They are among the more than 25,000 South Africans who are helping in their communities having completed the 19 Scientology Tools for Life courses, available in 20 languages, including Sotho, Zulu, and Xhosa, free of charge through the Scientology website. These courses provide training on technology developed for the program by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard.

For the full impact of South African Volunteer Ministers' response over the past five years, watch the new feature-length documentary Operation: Do Something About It. Produced by Scientology Media Productions, the film is available on the Scientology Network on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and streams at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

https://www.scientology.org/20-21/#scientology-volunteer-ministers-help-at-risk-populations-in-south-africa

https://www.castlekyalami.org.za/

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6sxsSt2Srg

https://www.scientology.org/20-21/#scientology-volunteer-ministers-help-at-risk-populations-in-south-africa

On the bright South African New Year's Day in 2019, when Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige dedicated the Scientology Advanced Organization and continental headquarters for Africa at Castle Kyalami, "COVID" was an obscure term known only to scientists and public health workers. But it soon entered the world's vocabulary when the first cases of the virus appeared. COVID-19 arrived in South Africa in March 2020 and the country went into lockdown.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Tools for Life Help Better the Chances for Youth to Succeed

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- Once faced with a bleak future, members of the graduating class of Makgongoana Secondary School in Mankweng, Limpopo, stand with the doors to higher education and opportunity now open. The school, once known as the institution with the lowest passing rate in the district, is now the best. And its graduates have the skills they need to achieve their dreams, thanks to a seminar organized by the Scientology Volunteer Ministers.

Dr. William Ramodike, Deputy Principal of Makgongoana Secondary School in Mankweng, Limpopo, and the school's principal Dr. Shapule Modjadji were awarded for transforming education standards for his students.

The change began in 2019, when Ramodike, pastor at the local Zion Christian Church and deputy principal of the school, was invited to a seminar at Castle Kyalami, Scientology headquarters for South Africa.

"I was introduced to a free life skills community development program called Tools for Life," says Ramodike. "It became clear to me that God had led me to the right place."

He and Dr. Modjadji immediately implemented the technology of study developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard and the results were dramatic. Once known as the school with the worst matriculation pass rate in the district, at an award ceremony in October 2023, officials recognized Modjadji and Ramodike for making Makgongoana Secondary School the top-performing school in the district for the third year in a row. As to what this means to the graduates-it changes everything.

"There is a lot more work to be done to reverse the current scene of education quality in our nation," says Ramodike, "and I am proud to be playing my part."

In addition to learning to handle study difficulties, he also gained tools to improve communication, resolve conflicts, set and achieve goals, and increase ethical standards among those he trains and works with.

"These Tools for Life really changed my life because they are applicable in any situation in society. They help me facilitate lessons, help my fellow pastors in church, handle my household affairs, and anything life can throw at me," he says. "We are more than just helping kids pass; we are also ensuring that they become valuable and contributing members of society who can make a positive change."

Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard developed the Tools for Life for the training of Scientology Volunteer Ministers, a religious social service sponsored by the Church of Scientology International and celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Mr. Hubbard described the Volunteer Minister as "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." Their creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

Their motto is no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

Castle Kyalami serves as a home for the community and a nexus for all who share the goal of bettering the lives of individuals and strengthening communities across the region, nation, and all of Africa. Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, dedicated Castle Kyalami on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming the vision of Mr. Hubbard that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

To learn more about the Scientology Volunteer Ministers watch a film on the Scientology Tools for Life, or to see how other pastors in South Africa are using these tools to transform their communities watch an episode of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network, available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and streaming at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://www.scientology.org/22-23/#africa-tools-for-life

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5ENd7YVi-M&t=60s

Once faced with a bleak future, members of the graduating class of Makgongoana Secondary School in Mankweng, Limpopo, stand with the doors to higher education and opportunity now open. The school, once known as the institution with the lowest passing rate in the district, is now the best. And its graduates have the skills they need to achieve their dreams, thanks to a seminar organized by the Scientology Volunteer Ministers.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

The Rich Culture of South Africa Celebrated at Scientology Headquarters

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- The Church of Scientology hosted officials, religious and community leaders, and other stakeholders for a Heritage Day celebration at Castle Kyalami, Church of Scientology headquarters for Africa.

The beloved Rev. Desmond Tutu was the first to call South Africa the Rainbow Nation. The name not only celebrates what makes the country unique, it is also what makes it strong: people of all colors, backgrounds, and religions, speaking 12 official languages, working together to achieve common goals.

In his newsletter on the eve of Heritage Day, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa urged all South Africans to honor "the commitment of leaders like Prince Buthelezi and President Nelson Mandela to put aside their differences and work for peace," and that maintaining peace and advancing reconciliation is the country's "collective responsibility" and "the greatest gift we can bestow on the generations to come."

It was in this spirit that hundreds, attending the Heritage Day event at Castle Kyalami, dressed in traditional attire, raised their voices in song, and danced in a joyous salute to the cultural wealth of the nation.

Heritage Day fosters unity and reminds everyone what it really means to be a South African, said Scientology spokesperson Sandile Hlayisi. "This is one of those days where you really appreciate being South African. The whole community gathered to share in each other's heritage."

"It was truly a beautiful day," said an executive of the South African National Taxi Council. "The unity that exists at the Castle and their ability to bring everyone together is astonishing. It is a proud moment to see everyone embracing their culture and displaying the cultural wealth of our country."

An SABC reporter found it heartwarming to see people "immerse themselves in unity."

The afternoon included a braai, traditional African markets, and a Heritage Day Sunday service emphasizing religious unity.

Castle Kyalami is a religious retreat for Scientologists from across the African continent. Home not only to the Church of Scientology but to the community, it realizes the vision of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard that all Churches of Scientology should provide not only the ideal facilities to service Scientologists in their ascent to higher states of spiritual freedom, but to also serve as a home for the entire community and a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

The Church shares its many humanitarian and community outreach programs with people of all faiths and backgrounds in its commitment to creating a better Africa and a better world.

Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, dedicated Castle Kyalami on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming the vision of Mr. Hubbard that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.castlekyalami.org.za/about-us/

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.scientology.org/22-23/

The Church of Scientology hosted officials, religious and community leaders, and other stakeholders for a Heritage Day celebration at Castle Kyalami, Church of Scientology headquarters for Africa. The beloved Rev. Desmond Tutu was the first to call South Africa the Rainbow Nation.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

‘Voices for Humanity’ Battles Human Trafficking with Glory Matipile

GAUTENG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- VOICES FOR HUMANITY - the weekly series presenting heroic change-makers from a variety of faiths, cultures and nations, working to uplift their communities - announces a new episode featuring human rights activist Glory Matipile, premiering on July 5, 2023.

VOICES FOR HUMANITY airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Scientology Network.

With a depressed job market and high rate of unemployment, many South Africans are easily lured with potential jobs that turn out to be human trafficking traps. Of those ensnared, only one percent are ever rescued. Children and young South Africans are trafficked for sex slavery, drug trafficking and organ harvesting. Glory Matipile has made it her mission to rescue victims of human trafficking and to spread the knowledge of human rights. Her work in coordination with Youth for Human Rights focuses on educating the youth of South Africa about the tricks and tactics of traffickers, helping prevent them from ever becoming victims.

ABOUT GLORY MATIPILE

A native of South Africa, Glory Matipile's determination to become an activist in the battle against human trafficking was sparked by the disappearance of a girl she knew growing up. Setting out to find her friend, Glory uncovered the numerous scams and deceits traffickers employed and the dangers they posed to the country's youth. Glory decided to start the organization Baagi Ba South Africa (The Future of South Africa) to advocate for victims. With her team of activists, she exposed a trafficking ring, saving hundreds of potential victims from being consigned to slavery. Glory and her organization have a widespread presence in communities, in schools, and have brought the message of human rights to millions through South African media.

Glory Matipile is the founder and CEO of Baagi Ba South Africa.

ABOUT THE SCIENTOLOGY NETWORK

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology and Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/glory-matipile.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/glory-matipile.html

VOICES FOR HUMANITY - the weekly series presenting heroic change-makers from a variety of faiths, cultures and nations, working to uplift their communities - announces a new episode featuring human rights activist Glory Matipile, premiering on July 5, 2023.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Voices For Humanity Brings Life-Changing Solutions to South Africa With Reverend Shadrack Lekoana

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Network's VOICES FOR HUMANITY--the weekly series presenting heroic change-makers from a variety of faiths, cultures and nations, working to uplift their communities--announces a new episode featuring Reverend Shadrack Lekoana on May 24, 2023.

In South Africa, the church is a trusted place, a place people go for answers to the problems they face in life. But in a country where 55 percent of the population lives in poverty, where unemployment and crime are rampant, church leaders had no real answers to offer their parishioners. Finding practical solutions in The Scientology Handbook, Reverend Shadrack Lekoana is at the forefront of a movement uplifting the lives of millions across South Africa.

ABOUT REVEREND SHADRACK LEKOANA

Known by his friends as "Pastor" before he was even a teen, Reverend Shadrack Lekoana followed in his father's footsteps, leading a life of service in the church. Despite growing up impoverished, he was the first in his family to go to college, where he earned his theology degree. Years of face-to-face counseling with parishioners led to the realization that he lacked practical solutions to truly help them with their problems. But that changed once he was introduced to The Scientology Handbook. Recognizing the value of the tools contained within the handbook in addressing many of society's ills, he partnered with the Church of Scientology to share the technology with leaders and pastors from all denominations in what have come to be known as "Empowerment Seminars." To date, more than 3,200 members of the clergy have attended, providing them with the practical solutions to turn their churches into "beacons of hope" in the creation of a better world.

Reverend Shadrack Lekoana is a minister of the Uniting Reformed Church in Secunda, Mpumalanga.

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology and Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/rev-shadrack-lekoana.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/clips/rev-shadrack-lekoana-trailer.html

Scientology Network's VOICES FOR HUMANITY--the weekly series presenting heroic change-makers from a variety of faiths, cultures and nations, working to uplift their communities--announces a new episode featuring Reverend Shadrack Lekoana on May 24, 2023.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Volunteer Ministers: Helping One Person Can Change the World

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- Growing up in Mitchel Plain wasn't easy, according to Luce-Lynn Fondling, a life skills coach and Scientology Volunteer Minister who works with community leaders, educators and both bullies and victims in schools. Drug dealers dominate her neighborhood. "There is violence everywhere," she says.

Mitchel Plain was built in the 1970s for people forcibly removed by the apartheid South African government from areas set aside for "whites only." It is notorious for gang violence, substance abuse and poverty.

"I was always fighting," she says in a video on the Volunteer Ministers South Africa YouTube channel. "I was always in fights. I was always, 'you can't tell me anything.'"

Then she met a Scientology volunteer and what the volunteer told Luce seemed to make sense.

"How do you know all these things?" Luce asked her, and the volunteer introduced her to the Tools for Life-a series of 19 free online courses.

"When I did the courses, I become a different person," says Luce. "I know that I've changed because when people attack me, I'm like 'Hold on. I'm not that Luce anymore.' And then they will approach me and say, 'Look here, what happened to you? Why are you so changed?' And then I share the 19 Tools."

Working in coordination with Scientology Volunteer Ministers African headquarters at Castle Kyalami in Johannesburg, Luce delivers seminars to community leaders to empower them so they know what to do.

A community activist who took part in the training says Luce's Tools for Life seminars are "equipping those in my community so we can create a positive ripple effect. The goal is to break the cycle of poverty."

"Sometimes children are acting out, but you don't know why they are acting out," says the principal of an early childhood development center who attended Luce's seminar. "Their parents might be on drugs or they're using alcohol .... The Tools show us how to deal with these people."

"It was a blessing for me to be part of this," says an intern assistant at the same center.

"For me, change is possible," says a ward committee member who completed the 19 courses. "It just depends on what I utilize [from these courses]."

Luce says, "these Tools for Life really changed my life because I am now able to create the change I want to see around me without waiting for anyone. I can see it made a difference in my life. And I'm sure it's going to make a difference in everybody's life."

Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard developed the Tools for Life for the training of Scientology Volunteer Ministers, which is a religious social service sponsored by the Church of Scientology International.

Mr. Hubbard described the Volunteer Minister as "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." Their creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

Their motto is, no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

Castle Kyalami serves as a home for the community and a nexus for all who share the goal of bettering the lives of individuals and strengthening communities across the region, nation, and all of Africa. Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, dedicated Castle Kyalami on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming the vision of Mr. Hubbard that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

For more information on the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, visit the Scientology website.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/S5gGNaNHubw

Growing up in Mitchel Plain wasn't easy, according to Luce-Lynn Fondling, a life skills coach and Scientology Volunteer Minister who works with community leaders, educators and both bullies and victims in schools. Drug dealers dominate her neighborhood. "There is violence everywhere," she says.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Innovative Process Recycles All Types of Plastic Waste Utilizing Profitable Micro-Recycling Centers

NAIROBI, Kenya /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, Nairobi non-profit Slums Going Green and Clean (SGGC) announced the success of its open-source Waste Free in '23 initiative utilizing profitable micro-recycling centers. In January 2023, two centers recycled five tons of mixed plastic waste with plans to increase their recycling capacity to 15 centers and 75 tons of waste per month by the end of 2023.

"To change the plastics situation in Kenya, we need an all-in approach. Solutions on the ground -- and from the ground in the informal sector need to find a place in the value chain for good, just as much as the players do. We must rethink product design to ensure recyclability, and always keep materials in the loop," says Karin Boomsma, Project Lead at the Kenya Plastics Pact (KPP).

"At the end of 2022, we recovered, recycled, and repurposed all common plastic types collected from the Nairobi River and Kibera at our first micro-recycling center," said Brian Nyabuti, founder of SGGC. "Nairobi, like the rest of the world, was recycling less than 10% of plastic waste and disposing of the rest in landfills, communities, and the environment," referring to the 2021 report from the UN Environmental Programme. "With these innovations we can turn any type of plastic, including food wrappers and packaging, into products like bins, chairs, roof panels and fence posts."

A cadre of engineers, scientists, and recyclers collaborated with the Waste Free in '23 initiative to solve trash and recycling problems in low-income communities. The team adapted common recycling equipment used at major recycling centers to create a micro-recycling center in Kibera, an informal settlement in Nairobi. Equipment for a micro-recycling center costs $2000 and consists of a shredder, plastic slicer, heat press, and molds that can process up to 200 kilograms of waste per day. The Kibera micro-recycling center was funded through crowdsourcing.

The center inserts soft plastics unwashed and unsorted into a heat press. In just 10 minutes, the plastic is bonded into components used to create products that are sold to the local community. The small amount of plastic that should not be heated can be shredded and added to concrete. The micro-recycling center is staffed with four workers who earn a living wage.

"We are turning trash into treasure," said Nyabuti. "We no longer have to dump,burn,or truck our plastic waste to landfills. And with the equipment designed to be low cost and to be built anywhere in the world, thousands of communities can join Kibera in becoming Waste Free in '23."

LEARN MORE:

Slums Going Green and Clean (SGGC) is a non-profit based in Nairobi, Kenya. Find its open-sourced materials on micro-recycling at http://www.wastefree23.org

Visit them on Instagram, and Facebook

Kenyan Plastic Pact (KPP) is an ambitious, collaborative initiative that brings together stakeholders across the whole plastics value chain to transform the current linear plastics system into a circular economy for plastics. https://kpp.or.ke/

Today, Nairobi non-profit Slums Going Green and Clean (SGGC) announced the success of its open-source Waste Free in '23 initiative utilizing profitable micro-recycling centers. In January 2023, two centers recycled five tons of mixed plastic waste with plans to increase their recycling capacity to 15 centers and 75 tons of waste per month by the end of 2023.

Related link: https://www.wastefree23.org/

Intellimedia Networks Expands its Operations into Kenya

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Intellimedia Networks, an award-winning leading provider of technology solutions for government, educational institutions, and businesses, is excited to announce the expansion of its operations into Africa with a new presence in Nairobi, Kenya. This move follows several meetings with Kenyan government officials and the Kenyan business community at the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC on December 13-15, 2022. Intellimedia's participation in the summit was a key step in the company's mission to provide innovative technology solutions to businesses across the continent.

"We welcome the entry of Intellimedia Networks into the African market through the planned presence in Nairobi, Kenya," said Dr. Musalia Mudavadi prime cabinet secretary of the Republic of Kenya. "Intellimedia Networks' solutions fit our commitment to elevate the lives of Kenyans by creating opportunities for Kenyans to acquire new skills rapidly. Intellimedia will be warmly welcomed as a key player in a new wave of American businesses forming a base in Kenya, and as a solid partner and an enabler of high growth via emerging immersive technologies."

Intellimedia Networks' solutions encompass industry-leading interactive and VR/AR based training and education platforms, advanced content and media distribution platforms, and live event broadcasting solution". Intellimedia's solutions will be used in vocational training and education, entertainment, and education distribution, healthcare, e-commerce, and finally support a broadcasting of conferences and events that are held in Kenya.

"The focus of the Kenyan leadership team was impressive resulting in action-oriented meetings that have made it logical for us to engage in Kenya," said Mr. Darshan Sedani, President and Co-founder of Intellimedia Networks. "We are excited to support one of the strongest economies in Africa by providing results-oriented approaches at a grassroots level in our business strategy coupled with identified customer application needs in Kenya. We aim to be effective in helping Kenya attain its short-term digitization goals."

"As a member of the African diaspora, I am pleased to support accelerated growth in Kenya by providing an array of software solutions ideal for emerging nations that have a need to create a growing middle class," said Mr. Teodros Gessesse, CEO and Co-founder of Intellimedia Networks. "Our commitment is to work hard to make our solutions benefit the greatest number of Kenyans and radiate outwards into potential markets in the COMESA member countries."

The Nairobi office will provide businesses in Kenya and the surrounding region with access to Intellimedia Networks' full range of services, including design, implementation, and support. In addition to Intellimedia Networks' USA staff, several members of Intellimedia India's executive team including Mr. Joy Shah, Managing Director, Mr. Devang Ajmera, Head of Operations and Mr. Rajkumar Ramakrishnan, VP of Technology will be focused in supporting Intellimedia Networks Africa's expansion.

Additionally, the office will offer training and education programs to equip local government, educational and training institutions, and businesses with the solutions and skills they need to support and maintain the technology solutions provided by the company.

About Intellimedia Networks:

Intellimedia Networks is a leading provider of technology solutions for businesses, offering a range of services including network design, implementation, and support. The company's mission is to help businesses across the world to harness the power of technology to improve efficiency, reduce costs and drive growth.

More information: https://intellimedianetworks.com/

Intellimedia Networks, an award-winning leading provider of technology solutions for government, educational institutions, and businesses, is excited to announce the expansion of its operations into Africa with a new presence in Nairobi, Kenya. This move follows several meetings with Kenyan government officials and the Kenyan business community at the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in Washington DC on December 13-15, 2022.

Related link: https://intellimedianetworks.com/

Scientology Tools for Life Empower Leaders to Help Better Life for All

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- Hundreds of committed changemakers see this new year as a turning point for South Africa. Empowered through community and economic development workshops at Castle Kyalami, Scientology headquarters in the country, they know that as they return to their communities and implement what they have learned, the impact will continue to swell, as those they empower reach out to others with the Scientology Tools for Life.

A district manager of an educational support nonprofit believes everyone should study the Scientology Tools for Life courses. "They have taken my skillset to a whole new level," he says, "and I can't wait to impart this knowledge."

A department head of a secondary school says, "the knowledge from the Tools for Life courses really improved my communication skills and I am now comfortable in interacting with other people in my environment, especially talking to fellow educators and learners." In addition to the knowledge he gained, he felt "a unique sense of togetherness, a feeling of belonging to a wonderful group of profound people." This is echoed by an education specialist, who says "every new thing I learned from the Scientology Volunteer Ministers motivated me to bring change into my community."

"Because I am shy, I just feel they gave me that urge to want to do more," says a graduate who works for a sustainable agriculture nonprofit. She now feels more capable of accomplishing her goals. "I can organize, I can mobilize people, I can speak, I can be vocal."

"This is what I want to achieve," says a Gauteng University intern who was able to overcome certain fears that prevented him from being successful. He realized these truly are tools for life "because they equip you to be able to tackle any challenge and any obstacle that you are faced with."

Scientology Tools for Life were developed for the training of Scientology Volunteer Ministers, a religious social service created in the mid-1970s by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. The Volunteer Ministers are among the world's largest independent relief forces.

Mr. Hubbard described the Volunteer Minister as "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." Their creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

Their motto is, no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

Castle Kyalami serves as a home for the community and a nexus for all who share the goal of bettering the lives of individuals and strengthening communities across the region, nation, and all of Africa. Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, dedicated Kyalami Castle on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming the commitment of Mr. Hubbard that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

For more information on the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, visit the Scientology website.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/bkUy2jrjNOc

Hundreds of committed changemakers see this new year as a turning point for South Africa. Empowered through community and economic development workshops at Castle Kyalami, Scientology headquarters in the country, they know that as they return to their communities and implement what they have learned, the impact will continue to swell, as those they empower reach out to others with the Scientology Tools for Life.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

In 2023, Can the Scientology Tools for Life Help Resolve Religious Conflict?

GAUTENG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- When Rev. Shadrack Lekoana of the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa studied the Scientology Tools for Life courses, they rehabilitated his purpose and empowered him to accomplish it. Lekoana teamed up with the Church of Scientology to use these tools to end conflicts and competition among religions, which only distract religious leaders from their true vocation.

"It is a tragedy to see what society has become under our neglect," he told 100 religious leaders of a broad range of faiths attending his seminar at Kyalami Castle in Gauteng, African headquarters for the Scientology religion and its humanitarian outreach programs.

"Most of the time we are too focused on membership and proving who is right and who is wrong," said Lekoana. "So much so that we have neglected our duties in the community. Religious unity can be more than a dream. We are all gathered here to be empowered with skills to help our communities. So let us learn with the purpose of helping our people."

What followed was a day of training on skills including conflict management, communication, how to tackle drug abuse, and tools to enable students to apply what they learn and translate their education into success in life. These skills and many more are included in the Scientology Volunteer Ministers Tools for Life Skills Development Program.

Mr. Ditle, an elder and member of the Church Council of the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa was amazed at what he learned in a single day. "Our churches today lack strong leaders. And for a long time, I have asked myself why this is," he said. "Today I got my answer. They sometimes lack the practical knowledge to handle social situations so they don't know what to do. But they do have the passion to help."

No less enthusiastic was Bishop Mnisi, National Deputy Secretary of the South African Christian Ministers Council.

"The Tools for Life have the potential to change my community," he said. Apart from being active in the church, Mnisi also runs a nonprofit that works with local youth and he is eager to use these new skills in his outreach activities.

Mnisi spoke of the many problems today's youth face. "We all know them: Unemployment, drugs, crime, hopelessness." He has been discouraged by the lack of effective programs. But Scientology Tools for Life training unlocked the riddle of why there is so little improvement in social conditions despite the commitment of so many to improve young people's lives. "Nobody can handle the underlying cause of all these problems: the mindset," he said. And it was with great relief that he realized, "This program can."

"We may be from different faiths," said Sandile Hlayisi, chair of the South African Scientology Volunteer Ministers, who conducted these training sessions. "But we all are affected by the same societal issues. It is vital that we focus on how we are going to work together to assist in solving the high crime rate, gender-based violence, substance abuse, and many other problems that have plagued our country for far too long now. We can't waste time arguing with each other. We have much work to do."

To date, Rev. Lekoana has brought together more than 3,000 leaders from different churches and denominations throughout South Africa to train them on the Scientology Tools for Life Skills Development Program.

"It is such an honor to see all of us getting along," he said at the end of the day's training. "Working together is far more beneficial than working against each other. Now it is time to equip ourselves with knowledge so we can bring life back into our communities."

The Scientology Tools for Life were developed for the training of Scientology Volunteer Ministers, a religious social service created in the mid-1970s by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. It constitutes one of the world's largest independent relief forces.

Mr. Hubbard described the Volunteer Minister as "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." Their creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

Their motto is, no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

Castle Kyalami serves as a home for the community and a nexus for all who share the goal of bettering the lives of individuals and strengthening communities across the region, nation, and all of Africa. Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, dedicated Kyalami Castle on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming the commitment of Mr. Hubbard that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

For more information on the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, visit the Scientology website.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvoPFRpAwDw

When Rev. Shadrack Lekoana of the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa studied the Scientology Tools for Life courses, they rehabilitated his purpose and empowered him to accomplish it. Lekoana teamed up with the Church of Scientology to use these tools to end conflicts and competition among religions, which only distract religious leaders from their true vocation.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Help and Empowerment: The Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- The winds of change are blowing through South Africa, with thousands trained as Volunteer Ministers through the Scientology Tools for Life courses. They are applying these tools and reaching out with help in greater and greater numbers. On International Volunteer Day, we honor these volunteers as a living example of positive change through volunteerism.

At a recent ceremony at Kyalami Castle in Midrand, South Africa, 700 educators completed the Scientology Tools for Life courses. Sandile Hlayisi, chairperson of the South African Scientology Volunteer Ministers, who conducted these training sessions, spoke to the graduates about the new skills they have gained and that they now have the potential of fulfilling the mandate of the late Nelson Mandela. "Sometimes it falls upon a generation to be great. You can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom."

His views were echoed by graduates.

"They have equipped us with the tools to be councilors for our people," said Rev. Phampha William Ramodike, a deputy principal from Limpopo. "They have given us the tools to get our kids off drugs. They have given us the tools to solve conflicts, mend marriages and restore hope to our country. All of us in this auditorium are now capable of great deeds and we will achieve them by applying what we learned."

A community development leader from the City of Tshwane said, "I am so proud to be part of this program. It has really impacted me and my way of operating."

A senior executive from Family Tree Holdings, a black-owned and managed investment holdings company, spoke of the profound change this program had on her outlook. "It taught me to be selfless and do all I can to help society because it is the right thing to do."

But the value of any tool is in its use. And this is demonstrated by the successful application by graduates of the Volunteer Ministers program.

At Makgongoana s

The winds of change are blowing through South Africa, with thousands trained as Volunteer Ministers through the Scientology Tools for Life courses. They are applying these tools and reaching out with help in greater and greater numbers. On International Volunteer Day, we honor these volunteers as a living example of positive change through volunteerism.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Honoring a Scientology Volunteer Minister Who is Changing the Face of Uganda

WANGA PARISH, Uganda /ScoopCloud/ -- International Volunteer Day December 5 was set aside by the United Nations to celebrate positive change through volunteerism. And a stellar example of the change a team of volunteers can achieve is the work of the Volunteer Ministers of Wanga Parish, Uganda, says the Church of Scientology International.

Martin Wamatsu had a dream: to transform Wanga Parish, the village of his birth, from a community struggling in poverty to one that is self-sustaining and providing a decent future for all who live there.

When he was introduced to the Scientology Volunteer Ministers' Tools for Life Courses online, he realized this was the technology he needed to turn his dream into reality. Understanding the basics of communication, organization and planning, he now knew how to set goals and accomplish them. Wamatsu and his family returned to the village, met with village elders, and gained their agreement to carry out a series of programs to achieve this goal.

Wamatsu reached out to a Scientologist over the internet who was as excited about his ideas and plans as he was, and she took on raising funds for the project.

As a school principal, one of Wamatsu's first projects was to provide a future for 70 destitute village orphans. He and his team opened an orphanage, and these children are now all in school. The children now have the energy to learn and take part in orphanage projects. And once the children harvest their first crop of sweet potatoes and rice, the orphanage will be self-sustaining.

Another 25 destitute village children have received the same kind of help and have joined their orphaned friends in school. Funds are nearly in place for the remaining 45 village children to also join them at the school, which will accomplish one of Wamatsu's goals: universal education for all village children.

During the 84-week COVID lockdown in Uganda, most people had to resort to eating their seeds to survive. With the help of his online patron, Wamatsu has now seen to the purchase of seeds, and the village has planted 15 acres of rice, and fields of sweet potatoes and cassava. Once these harvests are gathered, they will have enough to feed the village, plant for the next season and sell or trade produce to nearby villages.

The village and six other villages nearby now have pure, clean drinking water. And they are raising funds to open a medical clinic with a nurse who is also a trained Scientology Volunteer Minister.

Wamatsu has trained his entire village and the leaders of 24 nearby villages on the Scientology Tools for Life. And they used these tools to organize themselves to work as a team to accomplish targets. They are well on their way to making Wanga a sustainable village that can serve as a model where nearby leaders can gain practical experience and return to their villages to create a sustainable region and beyond.

The Church of Scientology Volunteer Ministers program is a religious social service created in the mid-1970s by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. It constitutes one of the world's largest independent relief forces. Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, calling on Scientologists to use what they know to redouble their efforts to aid their fellow man, has inspired tremendous growth in the Volunteer Ministers movement.

A Volunteer Minister's mandate is to be "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." Their creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

Their motto is no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

For more information on the technology used by the Volunteer Minister, watch films on the Scientology Tools for Life on the Scientology Network at DIRECTV 320 or at https://www.scientology.tv/.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/nGRWeCFOtI8

International Volunteer Day December 5 was set aside by the United Nations to celebrate positive change through volunteerism. And a stellar example of the change a team of volunteers can achieve is the work of the Volunteer Ministers of Wanga Parish, Uganda, says the Church of Scientology International.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Sustainable Africa Future Network’s PRE-COP27 Virtual Climate Change Collection Kicks Off with Poignant Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield urged activists to come together to achieve climate justice during her opening message to nearly 500 people logged on from around the world for today's kick-off of the PRE-COP27 Virtual Climate Change Collection hosted by the HBCU Green Fund's Sustainable Africa Future Network. "[the climate crisis] requires bold and sustained, collective action and there is no better forum for collective action than the United Nations," she said.

Convened during Climate Week in advance of the 2022 U.N. Climate Conference (COP27) in Egypt, the free, five-day event presents a collection of compelling stories that highlight local cultures, climate impacts, and innovative grassroots projects underway to fight the climate crisis in communities in Africa and the Diaspora. To register for the Pre-COP27 Virtual Summit visit https://sustainableafricafuture.org.

"Climate justice is key to racial justice," said Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield. "Communities of color bear a particularly heavy burden from climate change and pollution. The hard work of climate justice starts at the grass roots."

According to organizers, the goal of the event is to build and strengthen climate networks throughout the African diaspora, elevate the positive initiatives taking place on micro budgets, and mobilize support for the participation of African climate NGO's at COP27. Speakers in Africa include Shamiela Reid, Just Transition Enterprise, South Africa; Cheikhou Thiome, Sustainable Africa Futures Senegal; Destin Simpijja, Sustainable Africa Futures Uganda. Dr. Mildred McClain, Harambee House/Citizens for Environmental Justice; Raina Turner-Greenlea, Black Sustainability; and Felicia Davis, HBCU Green Fund, are among the U.S. participants.

"As the devastating effects of global warming increase, Black communities in the U.S., throughout Africa and the diaspora, stand to suffer some of the largest consequences if action is not immediate," said Illai Kenney, national director of HBCU Green Fund.

"We've organized a collection of powerful stories that underscore the dire effects of climate change in impoverished communities and also shine a light on the hard work local activists are doing to save their countries and the planet," Kenney adds. "Connecting HBCU students with local activists is important because these future leaders will play an integral role in developing vital cross-border solutions for clean energy and sustainability."

The HBCU Green Fund's Sustainable Africa Future Network is a collective of individuals and organizations helping to support environmentally sustainable projects across Africa and the Diaspora. The HBCU Green Fund is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization working with historically black colleges and universities in the U.S. and abroad to advance sustainability and promote student engagement in green initiatives.

The recorded event will remain accessible through sustainableafricafuture.org or hbcugreenfund.org for 30 days.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

USA: Edrea Davis, Jazzmyne PR, edmedia@dogonvillage.com, 818.613.9521.

AFRICA: Cheikhou Thiome, West Africa Coordinator, cthiome@gmail.com, +221776524301.

MULTIMEDIA:

Video Timeline Menu (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQR6jq39Cdd6RhBRNsBRAVURmaa3E948F

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield urged activists to come together to achieve climate justice during her opening message to nearly 500 people logged on from around the world for today's kick-off of the PRE-COP27 Virtual Climate Change Collection hosted by the HBCU Green Fund's Sustainable Africa Future Network.

Related link: https://hbcugreenfund.org/

Scientology Volunteer Ministers Honored for Their Service to South Africa

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- For World Humanitarian Day, celebrated annually on August 19, the Church of Scientology honors the Volunteer Ministers of South Africa. At a recent celebration at Kyalami Castle in Midrand, South Africa, officials from across the country joined the Church in thanking the Scientology Volunteer Ministers for their service since the pandemic began. Volunteer Ministers contributed more than a million hours assisting the government and private sector to care for the most vulnerable.

Those attending included the MEC (Member of the Executive Council) for Health of the Social Development Department and officials of the Department of Justice of Gauteng. South African Local Government Association (SALGA) was also on hand, along with National Disaster Management.

The Chief of Police of the Tshwane Metro Police, and Emergency Services of Tshwane, Joburg and Ekurhuleni, representative of Mogale City and many police officers of Gauteng attended as well.

The MEC of Health Gauteng, Dr. Nomathemba Mokgethi, and the MEC of Education, Mr. Panyaza Lesufi, acknowledged two Scientology Volunteer Ministers in particular who were part of the volunteer force since the lockdown began in 2020. They each contributed more than 2,000 hours of service to the community.

Other volunteers awarded contributed at least 100 volunteer hours, many of them between 1,000 and 2,000 hours.

Mr. Freddy Williams of the Tshwane Emergency Services presented a special acknowledgment to the Church of Scientology. The Church organized and coordinated these volunteers to combat the pandemic. Volunteer Minister South Africa spokesperson Sandile Hlayisi accepted the award, crediting Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard for the program, the technology, and the passion to help South Africa.

The Church of Scientology Volunteer Ministers program is a religious social service created in the mid-1970s by L. Ron Hubbard. It constitutes one of the world's largest independent relief forces.

Mr. Hubbard described a Volunteer Minister as "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." Their creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

Their motto is no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

Castle Kyalami serves as a home for the community and a nexus for all who share the goal of bettering the lives of individuals and strengthening communities across the region, nation and all of Africa. Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, dedicated Kyalami Castle on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming the commitment of Mr. Hubbard that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

For more information on the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, visit the Scientology website.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.org/20-21/#south-africa

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/I5ENd7YVi-M

For World Humanitarian Day, celebrated annually on August 19, the Church of Scientology honors the Volunteer Ministers of South Africa. Volunteer Ministers contributed more than a million hours assisting the government and private sector to care for the most vulnerable.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa Help Create the Country of Their Dreams

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Mandela Day and throughout the year, the bright yellow jacket of the Scientology Volunteer Minister has become a symbol of service and the ability to make a difference. This year, Mandela Day marked a milestone for the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa: 8,000 people have now joined their ranks by completing all 19 Tools for Life courses.

The UN set aside Nelson Mandela's birthday 18 July to celebrate the man and his impact, calling on people to make a difference in their communities and change the world for the better by taking action and inspiring change.

"At a time when so much of the world is beset by hardship and strife," said South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa in honor of the day, "we are inspired by Madiba's words that 'it is in our hands to make a difference and to make the world a better place. Let us evoke Madiba's 'new patriotism,' where South Africans are determined to work together and make our country a winning nation."

And the Volunteer Ministers of South Africa and the training they provide are doing exactly that.

Just last week, 230 educators including teachers, principals and department of education officials were awarded their Volunteer Ministers certificates at a graduation at Kyalami Castle in Midrand, Scientology headquarters for Africa.

"These courses changed my life," said a police department community educator. "They gave me a full understanding of other people and how to deal with them. As police officers, we are used to dealing with people who can get very rude, call us names and get very disrespectful. I used to get angry back and it was just degrading. But now that I understand people and how their emotions work, I just wait for them to have their temper. I remain calm, and then when they are finished, I continue with my communication. I end up having people apologize for lashing out at me and telling me all the stresses going on at home. Even with my Early Childhood Development Centre, I used to help parents with their children based on what I hoped was correct. But now, I am trained to handle every situation. I just apply one or more of the tools. I have gained the respect of others around me. These courses have really put me in a good space."

After graduating, a primary school teacher said, "I am a Volunteer Minister now! My help is yours. I am going to get my fellow teachers to study these courses and graduate too. If everyone who has studied these courses got someone else enrolled, we would be looking at a different world. And it is doable. We each have our work cut out for us. Well, I will be doing my part."

A successful retired farmer recently hosted a professional development and mentoring seminar at Castle Kyalami for 120 agricultural entrepreneurs and advisors, training them on the Tools for Life to achieve poverty alleviation, sustainable agriculture, and combat unemployment among agricultural graduates.

Concerned about the problems and failure among smallholding farms, she decided to teach others the same skills she learned and used from the Scientology Volunteer Ministers community development program.

"After I came across the Tools for Life program, I put it into application," she said. "And I am still experiencing success even long after turning the farm over to my daughter. I have retired and I now want to impart knowledge from my experience as my humanitarian mission to create better lives."

The Tools for Life courses contain the skills Volunteer Ministers use to change life for the better. The Church of Scientology Volunteer Ministers program is a religious social service created in the mid-1970s by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. It constitutes one of the world's largest independent relief forces.

As he described, a Volunteer Minister's mandate is to be "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." Their creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

Their motto is no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

Castle Kyalami serves as a home for the community and a nexus for all who share the goal of bettering the lives of individuals and strengthening communities across the region, nation and all of Africa. Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, dedicated Kyalami Castle on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming the commitment of Mr. Hubbard that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

For more information on the Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, visit the interactive timeline on the Scientology website.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.facebook.com/kyalamicastle

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/I5ENd7YVi-M

On Mandela Day and throughout the year, the bright yellow jacket of the Scientology Volunteer Minister has become a symbol of service and the ability to make a difference. This year, Mandela Day marked a milestone for the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Volunteer Ministers Say Something Can Be Done to Help Youth Excel

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- As the UN launches its Youth Skills Day campaign for 2022 with its motto "transforming youth skills for the future," Scientology Volunteer Ministers are providing educators throughout South Africa with the tools to accomplish this goal.

In America, where 79 percent of adults are considered literate, some 14 percent actually lack the literacy necessary to cope with most jobs and many everyday situations. If that is the case in the U.S., how do youth fare in underdeveloped regions such as sub-Saharan Africa where one in three adults cannot read, and youth literacy is the lowest of any region?

Is there a simple way to accomplish the goal of the UN's July 15 Youth Skills Day campaign: to "transform youth skills for the future"? Scientology Volunteer Ministers say there is, and they are already well on their way to putting their solution into effect. They are helping empower educators with seminars at Kyalami Castle, Scientology headquarters in South Africa.

The results are dramatic.

At Makgongoana Secondary school in Mankweng, a township in Limpopo Province, passing rate of graduating students was an underperforming 39 percent. After implementing the Volunteer Ministers program, the school had the highest pass rate in the district for three years in a row.

This transformation began when William Ramodike, deputy principal of the school and pastor at the local Zion Christian Church, searched for solutions. And he learned about an Empowerment and Success Interfaith Seminar to be delivered by the Scientology Volunteer Ministers at Castle Kyalami.

"I was introduced to a free life skills community development program called Tools for Life," he said of the seminar. "It became clear to me that God had led me to the right place. The program trained me on skills to handle study difficulties, communication, conflict resolution, achieving goals, ethics, and much more."

Convinced he had found a practical way to resolve study problems, he immediately applied what he learned.

"And it brought fantastic results," he said.

He began by implementing Study Technology, methods developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard that have tremendous application in the secular sphere. Based on a comprehensive understanding of the actual barriers to effective learning, Study Technology provides precise tools to overcome these barriers, ensuring the ability to learn and apply any body of knowledge. A free introductory online course on Study Technology is part of the Tools For Life courses, available in 18 languages including Zulu through the Scientology website.

School principal Dr. S.E.L Modjadji backed Ramodike's implementation, which was so successful that it increased the school's graduating pass rate from 39 to over 80 percent.

"These tools for life really changed my life because they are applicable in any situation in society," said Ramodike. "They help me facilitate lessons, help my fellow pastors in church, handle my household affairs and anything life can throw at me."

Study Technology has empowered his students to learn skills they need to escape poverty and set a new course for themselves, their communities and country.

"We are more than just helping kids pass," said Ramodike. "We are also ensuring that they become valuable and contributing members of society who can make a positive change."

For more information on the practical application of this technology, watch an episode of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network on the work of Dr. Olatunde Odewumi whose program to train educators in Nigeria has introduced this new method of education to hundreds of thousands in his country. And for more information on the work of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, visit the interactive timeline on the Scientology website.

Castle Kyalami serves as a home for the community and a nexus for all who share the goal of bettering the lives of individuals and strengthening communities across the region, nation and all of Africa. Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, dedicated Kyalami Castle on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming the commitment of Mr. Hubbard that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/20-21/#south-africa

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/dr-olatunde-odewumi.html

https://www.scientology.org/courses/

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/WaLkJyOZFDc

As the UN launches its Youth Skills Day campaign for 2022 with its motto "transforming youth skills for the future," Scientology Volunteer Ministers are providing educators throughout South Africa with the tools to accomplish this goal.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

U.S. Climate Activist, Illai Kenney, Urged Young Leaders to Unite Globally for Climate Justice During the Continental Youth Symposium in Uganda

WASHINGTON, D.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Determined to encourage unity across the African Diaspora, expand their global network of youth working to advance climate justice and to promote the upcoming PreCOP27 Africa Virtual Summit, the HBCU Green Fund sent a small delegation to participate in the 3rd African Peer Review Mechanism Continental Youth Symposium in Kampala, Uganda last week. Themed, African Union @ 20: Repositioning the Youth Agenda for a Transformative Continent, the symposium brought together over 800 attendees from the African continent and Europe.

Speaking during a session at the symposium, Illai Kenney, director of HBCU Green Fund told attendees, "It's up to young people to advance equity and justice, solve the climate crisis and make the transition to clean energy. To do that, youth of African descent must work together across continents to create solutions. I am here from Washington, DC with my associates in the audience--Jared Sawyer, Jr. from Atlanta, Georgia; Faida Uwase of Rwanda; and Destin Sempijja of Uganda. We'd like connect with you to share ideas. We invite all of you to join our network of youth leaders from over 20 countries united to build a sustainable future for Africa and the Diaspora for our PreCOP27 Africa Virtual Summit."

The award-winning climate justice advocate continued, "Sustainability is not just a word; it is a lifestyle. It is a culture. It is a thing that we have always done as an African people. It is what I was taught as a member of the African diaspora who's been dislocated. A person whose ancestors were taken from this continent, brought to another and used to sustain the culture and livelihood of another people. But that's ok because those skills will sustain us today."

Hosted by the Government of Uganda, the African Union and the European Union, the goal of the Continental Youth Symposium is to develop recommendations for empowering youth to contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic transformation of their respective countries. Topics included: innovative approaches to sustainable youth employment; role of the youth in transfer of science, technology and innovation; the role of the youth in combatting climate change and promotion of green growth; sexual reproductive health and rights; and food and income security and peace. Participants included top youth leaders and youth Parliamentarians, government representatives and representatives of the private sector.

About The HBCU Green Fund:

The HBCU Green Fund is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization working with historically black colleges and universities in the U.S. and abroad to advance sustainability and promote student engagement in green initiatives. Titled, A Sustainable Future for Africa and the Diaspora, the HBCU Green Fund's PreCOP27 Virtual Summit will convene young leaders from the Diaspora September 19-23, 2022 to highlight local climate solutions already underway in Africa, mobilize support for projects, and to help fund African youth participation in COP27 in Egypt in November.

For more information on HBCU Green Fund or to register for the Pre-COP27 Virtual Summit visit http://www.hbcugreenfund.org/ to register for the PreCOP27 Virtual Summit go to https://sustainableafricafuture.org/.

Determined to encourage unity across the African Diaspora, expand their global network of youth working to advance climate justice and to promote the upcoming PreCOP27 Africa Virtual Summit, the HBCU Green Fund sent a small delegation to participate in the 3rd African Peer Review Mechanism Continental Youth Symposium in Kampala, Uganda last week.

Related link: https://hbcugreenfund.org/

ACLENet and Government of Uganda Sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to Further ‘Building Lightning Safe Communities’ Effort

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- An important milestone for promoting lightning safety across Africa occurred with the February 2022 signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Uganda-based African Centers for Lightning and Electromagnetics Network (ACLENet) and the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) of Uganda. This MoU was piloted and promoted by the Ministry of Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees (MoRDP'R) within the Prime Minister's Office.

"My Ministry is working with ACLENet on the scientific aspects of disaster preparedness," said Hilary Onek, the Hon Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees. "It is the hope of parties involved in this partnership to make this optimism a reality," Onek explained during a Public Service Announcement (PSA), an integral part of engagements leading to the signing of the MoU that was broadcast during the 2021 holiday season in both English and Luganda, the primary indigenous language in Uganda.

The MoU is an important milestone for ACLENet, as it is expected to provide instrumental framework for: 1) A national mandate to plan, promote, and advocate for lightning safety across Uganda; 2) Introduction of scientific principles of lightning safety for people, property, and places according to globally recognized lightning protection system (LPS) safety standard provisions of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

"This partnership is expected to further ACLENet's goals of saving lives and property across Africa," said Dr. Mary Ann Cooper, Managing Director of ACLENet.

Data sets and information packages are being prepared for the Hon. Minister for onward submission to appropriate units within the Government of Uganda and general public and include priorities outlined in The United Nation's Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 as well as a database on lightning injuries.

"Specifically, ACLENet plans to expand the work piloted with programs and interventions over the last seven years and in partnership with the National Emergency Coordination and Operations Centre (NECOC), a specialized department of MoRDP'R," explained Dr. Cooper. "Together, we aim to advance the 'building lightning safe communities' effort by reducing the number of deaths, injuries, and property damage from lightning."

Here in the U.S., the International Code Council (I.C.C.) is celebrating its 42nd annual Building Safety Month campaign with the theme "Safety for All: Building Codes in Action," to raise awareness about the importance of building codes in ensuring safety in spaces in which we live work and learn.

"Building Safety Month focuses on issues that impact our everyday lives: building safety, energy, water and disasters-factors of constant concern for homes, schools, businesses and communities," said Code Council Chief Executive Officer Dominic Sims, CBO.

Learn more: https://aclenet.org/how-to-help/overview.html

About ACLENet:

ACLENet, a nonprofit organization incorporated in both the US and Uganda, seeks funding and volunteers to help reduce injuries, save lives, and decrease crippling infrastructure damage from lightning in Africa. Visit https://aclenet.org/ to learn how you can support the effort.

ACLENet uses lightning protection, public, primary, and secondary education, and research to interface with African governments and protect communities from the lightning threat.

RELATED LINKS:

https://opm.go.ug/disaster-preparedness-and-management/

https://www.iec.ch/homepage

https://aclenet.org/news-publications/country-news/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/aj4iifLdI7E

An important milestone for promoting lightning safety across Africa occurred with the February 2022 signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Uganda-based African Centers for Lightning and Electromagnetics Network (ACLENet) and the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) of Uganda. This MoU was piloted and promoted by the Ministry of Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees (MoRDP'R) within the Prime Minister's Office.

Related link: https://aclenet.org/