Personal struggles and experience has Richard Barron committed to grounded leadership as he steers QASA
A wise man reminded me that as leaders, especially in serving the most vulnerable, we must be mindful of the isolation of our “ivory towers” and instead stay attuned to the reality on the ground. This resonated deeply and prompted a renewed commitment to being more mindful of those less fortunate.
As I reflect on the concept of Ubuntu (“I am because we are”), it is clear that our collective strength and unity are paramount in overcoming challenges. I am always humbled by the resilience of our members and their ability to endure the toughest socio-economic challenges.
Reflecting on time spent in the Northern and Eastern Cape brings bittersweet memories of the getting by with scarce resources after my accident and somehow making it through.
Before my accident, I was fortunate to have loving parents who ensured I did not lack the basics. Despite our limited resources, we shared what we had with struggling neighbours and family. Tragedy struck when my father passed away two weeks before my accident.
The combined weight of these events left me numb, and my daily goal was mere survival. My mother and I relied on my disability grant of about R1 000 at the time. Through sheer grace, we navigated those difficult years.
Despite our hardships, my mother managed to stretch our limited resources, often sharing what little we had. This spirit of generosity amidst adversity is a reality many of our members still face.
I share this personal story for two reasons. First, to provide context for my dedication and the source of my drive. Witnessing my parents’ selfless care for others, even with so little, planted a seed of empathy and service in me.
Second, I share this to emphasise my understanding of struggle and the belief that we owe it to those striving to better themselves to offer support wherever possible. Empathy towards your neighbour can be greatly enhanced by our presence and engagement. In the spirit of Ubuntu, we must remember that our individual wellbeing is intrinsically tied to the wellbeing of our community.
By staying attuned to the needs of those we serve and maintaining a grounded presence, we can foster an environment where every member feels valued and supported. Furthermore, it is essential to recognise that each of us has a responsibility to become the best version of ourselves.
At QASA, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way on this journey. This includes personal development and understanding and asserting your rights, which is fundamental to achieving true empowerment and equality.
By embracing the principles of Ubuntu, striving for personal growth, and advocating for our rights, we can build a stronger, more compassionate community. Let us continue to work hand in hand, lifting each other up and creating a future where everyone can thrive.
