From the Streets to a Life of Purpose

Raufick Abrahams grew up in the flats of Riverview, where young boys are often linked to gang life before they even understand what it means. At just 14 years old, he was introduced to Tik, dropped out of school, and quickly became a leader among his peers—leading them down the same destructive path.

Drawn deeper into the gang world, Raufick found acceptance and provision in the form of an older gang leader who became a father figure. Hiding guns, drugs, and ammunition soon became part of his daily life. As he gained notoriety, so did the weight of his decisions. Though he never killed anyone, his involvement in violent retaliation left lasting scars—on others, and within himself.

The Inner Battle

Haunted by guilt and tormented by addiction, Raufick found himself caught between two worlds: his past and a deep yearning for something more. He searched for peace through prayer, reading the Bible, and visiting the masjid, but the war within raged on.

That war came to a head when he was shot multiple times in a targeted attack. As he lay bleeding on the street, a vivid dream he had days before played out in real life. That moment became a turning point.

Choosing Change

While recovering from surgery, Raufick was visited by “Ant” Erena and Astrid, who gently encouraged him to break the cycle. Still, a voice inside tempted him: “You’ve spilt your blood, now you have more power—use it.” But Raufick chose differently. He returned all the weapons and money in his possession and walked away from gang life.

In February 2016, he entered the Change Makers program—a decision that would alter his destiny.

A New Life in Christ

During the program, Raufick made a bold decision: he left his Muslim faith and gave his life to Jesus Christ. It wasn’t easy, and the journey to recovery and restoration was filled with tests. But the Lord protected him. Even when tempted to return to his past, he stayed rooted in truth.

Today, Raufick has a job, a fiancée, and a 4-year-old daughter. His desire is to give back—to help other young men break free from gangs and drugs, just as he did.

He says:

“The Lord has saved me and kept His hand on me. I am forever grateful for how He used Change Makers to transform my life.”