“Stop feeling sorry for yourself!”
This is the message from a 61-year-old Cape Town car guard who is encouraging people living with disabilities to work at helping themselves.
Sikumpi Hloyi, from Langa township, was hit by a car in 1995 and ended up in a wheelchair. His right side was badly affected and to this day he can’t walk.
“I guess the driver didn’t see me,” he told Scrolla.Africa when reflecting on the incident.
After his recovery, he returned to his old post in Somerset even though he was in a wheelchair. He moved to Langa three years ago.
“I have been doing this for more than 20 years and I won’t stop. Why should I stop doing something that I love? It keeps me active and fresh,” he said.
Sikumpi stays in an old age home. He starts working at 6 am and knocks off when there are no cars to look after. The money he makes depends on what he gets from car owners.
“I take whatever they give me. Some give me R2, some give me more. I’m grateful and I don’t complain, even when people don’t give me anything. I do this for the love of working and to make the cars safe.”
Sikumpi wants his story to inspire everyone, especially those living with disabilities.
“The unemployment rate is too high and things are getting worse. Young people must start doing something that will bring them money. As long as it is legal, they must do it.”
Langa resident Luyolo Mayaba gives Sikumpi money even though he doesn’t have a car.
“I like his spirit. Every time I chat with him I gain something from his wisdom. He gives me advice about how we should tackle life’s challenges and makes me change how I view things.”
Pictured above: Sikumpi Hloyi, a disabled man in Langa township, has been a car guard for the past 20 years
Image Credit: Buziwe Nocuze
