GEORGE NEWS - Gustav Appels (21) is not a man of many words, but his smile speaks volumes. The paper in his hands is the source of his happiness and worth its weight in gold.
Gustav is the proud owner of a code 10 driver's licence and can now apply for enrolment at a traffic college in Cape Town - one step closer to his dream to become a traffic officer.
He can also drive a small truck, should the need arise.
This was made possible with the help of the Wagenaars of Marilyn's Driving School and two dear friends - Sabrina Beswick, the founder of the NGO Local Motion, and Bradley Bloem, who sponsored his lessons and driving test.
As a high school learner Gustav took part in the Local Motion programme where he joined the Bible study group, gave surf lessons and received help with home work. Forever grateful for their help, Gustav beamed with joy when he shared the news of his latest accomplishment.
Tough start
Previously referred to in George Herald articles by his birth name, Gustaviano, this young man caught everyone's attention when he found ingenious ways to survive while still in school at Parkdene High, where he was elected as head boy in 2021.
Gustav started a soup kitchen, Bread of Life, in 2020 during the Covid lockdown; he dug graves during the pandemic to cover his school fees and personal expenses; and started a bicycle food courier business which is still running over weekends. He was also the runner-up in the National Teachers' Awards in the category National Learner in 2021.
Gustav treasures his code 10 driver's licence. Photo: Michelle Pienaar
In April this year, George Herald caught up with Gustav at Handles Inc in York Street where he works as storeman.
Asked about his future plans, Gustav said he needs a driver's licence before he can pursue any possibility of becoming a traffic officer. The cost of driver's lessons was an obstacle.
Gustav supports a family of four - his sister (in Grade 11), his mother who is a paraplegic, and an uncle, who all live in his grandmother's home in Borcherds. His grandmother, who passed away last year, was his pillar of strength.
Support
Sam Wagenaar of Marilyn's Driving School said they made contact with Gustav following the publication of the most recent George Herald article in April this year. "We had calls from the readers, asking us if we could help," said Wagenaar.
"We didn't realise it at the time, but he already had a few lessons with one of our instructors, who confirmed that he would indeed need more lessons before he is ready for his driving test. That sealed the deal for us."
Beswick and Bloem, who sponsored the first set of lessons, helped with a second package. The driving school paid his driver's test, and the rest is history.
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