Exploring community leadership through the eyes of Clive Jacobs

This series, “A Day in the Life of a Community Leader,” takes readers inside the realities of grassroots leadership, the sacrifices, constant decisions, emotional labour, and commitment required to serve communities.

Southern Mail speaks to a different community leader each week. Last week, we spoke to Karen Mentoor in Overcome Heights. This week, we feature Clive Jacobs, founder of Lavender Community Outreach and Development Projects.

Established in 2009 by Mr Jacobs and a few supporting members, the organisation operates in greater Lavender Hill, Retreat, Steenberg, and surrounding informal settlements. Mr  Jacobs has been active in community work since 1994, focusing on LGBTQI issues and sports development.

He begins each day with prayer.

“I start at 5.30am, preparing sandwiches and drinks for school children before joining the walking bus to escort them safely. Later, I review my diary and meet mothers with urgent issues, often using my lounge to consult after giving up my office to the church,” he said.

Mr Jacobs compared his work to managing a household.

"I treat my work like cleaning my house; administrative tasks are daily, so I don’t fall behind. I review all important points. Being physically involved motivates me, and I need to be calm and prepared to support clients who are traumatised, indebted, or tenants in need,” he said.

Mr Jacobs said the communities rely on his support.

“Resources are scarce, but I am privileged to hear the community’s cries. I serve because no one else understands or advocates for them. I go beyond being a community activist, for example, restoring water for tenants during cuts. Emotional fatigue is real, but my spiritual well-being carries me. I stay ready, confident, and committed, because serving the community is my priority,” he said.

The vulnerable youth, the elderly, and women drive his work.

“They inspire me to fight for their dignity and rights. They see my efforts and value my work, and that gives me strength to continue serving with honesty, discipline, and all my abilities,” he said.

Much of his work is unseen. “I visit the elderly or sick to meet their needs and ensure children get home safely.

"A woman once knocked on my door after being assaulted; I provided support and called the Saps. These small tasks are vital and challenging every day,” he said.

Mr Jacobs also responds to crises.

“My phone must always be loaded. On January 4, at 5am, gunshots erupted near my flat. Over twelve bullets were fired, and the water supply was damaged. I contacted the relevant departments, and the issue was quickly resolved. Many problems disrupt our communities, but we stay committed,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Mr Jacobs finds fulfillment in helping others.

“Sometimes I feel I’m the only one who sees the daily wrongs, but prayer gives me peace and strength. Though others may not fulfill their responsibilities and homes remain shattered, I feel good about the little I can do each day, if it’s holding a mother’s hand, helping an expelled learner return to school, and comforting those in need. That is what truly matters,” he said.

If you would like to support Mr Jacobs with his community projects to support the community or if you want to donate to any of his charity events, contact him at 071 576 1876.

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