Cape Town Gangsters Who Went From Gang Life to Good Deeds

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On the Cape Flats, gang life often starts early. You’re pulled in before you’ve had a chance to decide what kind of person you want to be. But even in the heart of that world, some people change direction completely—and change the game while they’re at it.

These are men who’ve stepped away from war zones with their integrity stitched back together. They’re not asking to be praised. They’re doing the hard work: of repair, of honesty, of guiding others towards something better.

Today, we’re taking a closer look at six reformed Cape Town gangsters who once lived by the gun, but now live with purpose.

Shewaan Jumat Became an Inspirational Social Media Personality

Shewaan Jumat grew up in Heideveld, where life took a turn at 14 when he and his friends formed a group called the Timberlands. That small move led to years wrapped up in gangs, violence and drug use. Today, he goes by “RichInMind” and focuses on using digital platforms to reach young people who avoid formal education. Through music and video, he speaks directly to the youth in the Cape Flats, giving them something real to connect with. With over 40 videos online, he’s showing a different way forward. He’s now a husband, a father, and a guide for his community.

Brent Williams Co-Founded RLabs

RLabs was co-founded by Brent Williams, someone who knows what it means to start over. He grew up around gangs and ended up joining one himself. After a few years, he recognised how far he had drifted from the person he wanted to be. He found a programme that focused on helping people turn things around. That’s where things started to shift. RLabs began as a way to share that message in schools. They needed a way to support the work, so they turned to tech. With guidance from Marlon Parker, they picked up the tools they needed to grow.

Welcome Witbooi founded the Heart & Soul Foundation SA

While in prison, Welcome Witbooi met chaplain Father Arackathara, who helped him apply for a bursary. He studied adult education by correspondence and focused on social development. Teaching soon became part of his daily life inside prison. He also started helping others, including young people affected by Aids. After completing mediation through restorative justice, he was released in 2012. Father Arackathara offered him a role in his rehabilitation programme, where Witbooi began building partnerships with organisations. He later formed the Heart & Soul Foundation SA, which supports young people involved in gangs and encourages them to take better paths forward.

Denzil Moses Became a Youth Development Worker

Denzil Moses once led the Cape Town gang, the Fancy Boys. His childhood was shaped by crime and the drug world around him. After losing his father at 13, he turned to gangs for support. That decision shaped his early years. Now, he’s committed to helping others walk away from gang life. He offers support, guidance and practical help to those ready for a different life. His work gives people a real shot at starting fresh.

Sebastian Haricombe Started the Project Hope

Life in Manenberg led Sebastian Haricombe into gangs at a young age. He nearly lost his life four times before deciding to change direction. Instead of chasing power on the streets, he turned his focus to helping others. He started Hope in 2010 to collect money and buy school shoes for children in need. He also visits schools and speaks to children about what life outside gangs can look like.

Randall Majiet Became An Actor

During his time in rehab, Randall Majiet was approached by someone in casting who saw his potential. With the help of an agent, he stepped into the world of film. He played roles in Noem My Skollie and Four Corners, and acted alongside Orlando Bloom and Forest Whitaker in City of Violence. Sadly, in 2022, his life ended when he was hit by a drunk driver who left the scene.