A man who had spent more than 10 years in prison is now an anti-crime ambassador in Limpopo. Paul Netshisaulu (34) of Khalavha, outside Thohoyandou served a long term sentence for robbery, attempted murder and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Paul is now a changed man and he preaches messages of hope to the youth, warning them that crime does not pay. "I am now a changed man. I will never engage myself in crime because I know that it does not pay. That is why I have taken this bold step to tell everyone that there is nothing to gain in crime. I have a group of youths whom I meet every week, trying to keep them busy, so that they must never engage in crime," said Paul.

Paul said that his life changed when he met Bardwell Mufunwaini of the Munna Ndi Nnyi Men’s Forum, while he was serving his sentence at Kutama Sinthumule Correctional Centre. "He spoke about the real man and I felt that I needed to change and tell other people about the negatives of crime. I will never engage myself in crime, as long as I live."

Paul said that he did not come out of the prison wall empty handed. "I acquired my Grade 12 there and I also have qualifications in computer skills, welding, textile, conflict management, motor mechanic and life skills."

Mr Bardwell Mufunwaini of Munna Ndi Nnyi Men’s Forum says he is very proud of Paul. "The man is a true example of what personal transformation is all about. We have included him in our programmes and his contributions are making an impact."