​As global communities celebrate Child and Youth Care Workers Week 2023, Lettie Mahlangu (38), from the Soshanguve Secure Care Centre shares how her profession has changed not only her life but also the lives of many vulnerable children. 
Lettie Mahlangu has been a devoted Care Worker for the last 8 years, where she began her service as an Auxiliary Worker with emerging NGOs until she became part of the Gauteng Department of Social Development. 

She credits her love and passion for caring for children as a huge inspiration that drove her to joining the profession. 

Child and Youth Care Workers (CYCW) provide professional services to children and families, and thus often come across vulnerable clients that are at risk. This makes the profession challenging and emotionally demanding. “Some children come from very difficult situations. As a Care Worker you can become very emotional, however you still need to maintain a level of professionalism and try not to grow too attached to the child. Your job is to assist the client effectively”, said Mahlangu. 

Given the nature of secure care centres, Mahlangu is often tasked with caring for children who are in conflict with the law, be it because of gangsterism, bullying, or other illegal activities. As a result of their backgrounds, these children tend to have behavioural problems and are conditioned to disregard any form of authority. 

Mahlangu shared that the most rewarding part of her job is seeing the change in the behaviour and mindset of formerly troubled youth. 

“Seeing them talk about positive experiences and how our programmes have altered their perceptions and overall outlook on life makes me proud to be a Care Worker”, boasted Mahlangu. 

Mahlangu has also seen a positive change in her parenting style and her own character development. She appreciates her career for instilling a better and broader understanding on how to raise and interact with teenagers.