Hospice East Rand recently had the privilege of meeting Saleha Maharaj, Ms Inspire SA Woman 2020. As an agent for change in South Africa, Saleha provides inspiration for our youth to uplift, empower and bring about positive change in our country. Saleha says “we need each other to move forward from our problems in South Africa” and her aim is to create awareness of this and provide platforms for our youth to be the change.

As part of her role, Saleha created the opportunity for community members to donate items they no longer needed that she donated to Hospice East Rand for resale in their charity shops. She shared that Hospice is an essential part of the community and explained that not everyone has access to expensive medical care for life limiting illnesses and where there is no financial aid available and nowhere to turn; Hospice shines a light of hope.

Saleha was positive when speaking about the impact that Hospice East Rand has on the community and individually. When a loved one is ill, life can become very stressful and morbid but Hospice East Rand is there to make the situation bearable in providing a level of comfort and care.

When asked why she entered the Miss Inspire SA Pageant, Saleha shared from her own childhood experience. As a child or teenager you are always looking for guidance and answers and she wants to inspire our youth to make positive choices. For her it’s about her own empowerment and to help others from her experience. Being able to shine a light in areas that seem dark for our youth is important as well as being accessible ensuring she is available to listen, help and inspire.