Westbury is a coloured township, 8 km west of central Johannesburg

Westbury is a dynamic community crippled after many years of apartheid, discrimination and poverty. With an unemployment rate of over 80%, a very high school dropout rate, family stress and substance abuse.

The community is Afrikaans speaking, but almost everyone speaks English as well.

The young people of Westbury have very limited options for success in legitimate terms and often view a life of gangsterism and drugs as their only viable options.

The following are realities of daily life:

Lack of employment opportunities. It is estimated that only 3% of matriculates from 2000 will find a job.

High prevalence of female-headed one-parent families

Young people lack positive role models who can provide guidance and support

Parents are disconnected from their children’s education and development

The education system is overwhelmed by the issues students face at home (extreme poverty, family violence, severe overcrowding)

Access to basic health/welfare facilities and resources are poor

HIV/AIDS prevalence is growing fastest in the 15-24 years old age group in South Africa

For over 50 years, gang violence has plagued the area and added to the sense of decay and disparity emanating from the area.


Scenes from around Westbury