The R.E.D. Ambassadors share Dr Nyoka’s vision, drive, and passion to give back to the communities where they came from. They have been part of the R.E.D. Project since its inception in March 2020
Where I come from: I grew up in the Red Location, a township near Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape where my father had a medical practice for over 50 years. Red Location is the 2nd oldest black township in South Africa. It, like many other black communities, is plagued by poverty and has an unemployment rate in excess of 40%.
The name “RED” stems from the colour of the zinc with which the early dwellings in the area were built. This was material was exported from the concentration camps of the Anglo-Boer war.
Why I am a R.E.D. Ambassador: The Red Location, like most of province, the Eastern Cape, which has produced champions such as Makhaya Ntini and Siya Kolisi, has a dire shortage of sports facilities. The children of the community have thus little recreationally to do.
Where I come from: I was born and bred in Butterworth Cape Town, but have lived in Gqeberha (P.E.) since I obtained my law degree from Nelson Mandela University.
What I do: My first company was in fashion – Ayanna Fashion Cabin. From there I went on to work at the Master’s office where I learned how to administer deceased and living estates. After that I was a candidate attorney at Mbewana Attorneys – the largest, black-owned law firm in Gqeberha (P.E.).
Why I am a R.E.D. Ambassador: I am now a Director at Acketso Legal House. It is here that I started to champion different causes that give back to my community. I draft free wills for the elderly.
Where I come from: I was born in New Brighton. My humble beginnings played a part in the person who I am today.
What I do: I am proud to say that I am an entrepreneur and the Director of Mthi Wembotyi Projects, a company that operates in the marine industry in the ports of Coega and Gqeberha.
I have been recognised by the South African Maritime Safety Authority as the first black-owned SMME business to operate within the marine sector in Gqeberha.
Why I am a R.E.D. Ambassador: The name of my company, ‘Mthi Wembotyi’, is a strong tree that that carries seeds in large pods. The seeds symbolise hope and courage. My passion is to bring hope and courage to the youth in the Red Location – that’s why I am a R.E.D. Ambassador.