Shana-Joy Jansen

I had finished my schooling at Wynberg Girls High school in 2014 and completed my first year of study at the University of Cape Town in 2015. I had always been a bright student. I had a lot going for myself until … I didn’t. Due to a variety of factors such as illness, drug abuse, financial need and instability in my home environment, I had to leave my studies to find a way and means of surviving.

I lost my confidence and my hope, my zeal for life. I could only manage to cover the basics by seeking a job to keep myself fed, clothed, and housed. I moved homes often and just could only focus on day-to-day living.

I’d known about the Communiversity of South Africa since 2012, but it only became of interest when I really saw what it could provide me. It gave me a family – -of different ethnic groups- with different views. It made me aware that everyone needs others as a driving force behind their dreams, be it a teacher, a parent or a friend. The value I needed was not academic but a deeper need – to re-establish my sense of personal worth. The Communiversity reminded me of my own value and the value I can add to other peoples’ lives if I pursue what I’m passionate about. It gives all students a space that is completely encouraging of everyone. Here I found myself again, and learned so many things that I can take into the world with me.

The Communiversity is so passionate about the education and the well-being of each student that they provide the technique of Transcendental Meditation to enable us to have a sense of inner peace. I am blessed to have this new skill as it not only helps me to be more open-minded in understanding others and more positive, but it also really helps me get the right mindset for learning. I use TM in my everyday life, and I am thankful for this crucial skill.

The Communiversity granted me life-changing opportunities. Because of the exposure I received, I was approached by several organisations, including the Tore’s Foundation people who taught our debating course and then I became part of a great internship program with the NPO “Dress for Success” where I am currently helping underprivileged women from disadvantaged areas find and keep jobs by actively helping them prepare a CV, work on their communication skills, dress appropriately for their interviews and provide them with work attire. I could not be more thankful for these opportunities, far exceeding my expectations of how a small organization can bring about real change in an individual’s life, let alone a group.