Ethan Jass

I grew up in a loving family who upheld godly principles. I had everything a child could long for — joy, peace, and love. Throughout my early adulthood, I held good jobs, from bakery supervisor to Grade 2 chef. God blessed me with many talents. I am good at sports, and I have a deep love for art and poetry. In 2012, five of my poems were published in the Breede Valley poetry collection.

But in the twinkling of an eye, everything changed. Through wrong choices, I began using drugs, and my life spiralled quickly. I lost my job, the trust and respect of my family, and eventually all my possessions. I was a broken man. I hit rock bottom.

Over four years, I went through two rehabilitation centres. Each time I was released, I relapsed immediately. I returned to the same environment and the same friendships. Still, I refused to be ashamed of my failures. Instead, I chose to learn from them.

In 2019, I visited Change Makers — a program rooted in Christian principles, helping men break free from the stronghold of gangs and drugs. I believe with all my heart that only through the blood and power of Jesus Christ can men be truly set free. After graduating from the program, my life was transformed.

Today, I serve the Lord. I am a married man, and I work as a storekeeper. This year, I released my first poetry collection, and I am currently working on a second, along with writing a short biography.

My encouragement to other men is this: seek first the Kingdom of God and acknowledge Him in all your ways. Three words that have become my life’s motto are Endure, Persevere, Persist (Uithou, Aanhou en Volhou).