Some people are born with a natural ability to lead, while others develop the gift along theway through experiences and interactions. For Jacques Mahanga, it was a combinationof the two. Growing up in a household of 4+ siblings is an experience one can get lostin. However, this type of household can also allow space for a young kid to establishtheir confidence in social settings at an early age. This confidence was exuded in howJacques interacted with the world outside the confines of his home, especially in his sportendeavors.Jacques started playing basketball at Addington Primary School under PeacePlayersprogrammes. He credits PeacePlayers for "being the reason I was introduced to basketballand the foundation for many opportunities I've been presented with in life." AtAddington, he was under the tutelage of coach Allen Masikati who he vividly remembersand appreciates. Coach Allen helped him tailor his skillset on the basketball courtwhile providing guidance on navigating the violence that ensued in his surroundingneighborhood. In his neighborhood area (Point-South Beach), Jacques and his littlebrother walked together to and from school, local tuck shops, or grocery stores, oftenbonding and sharing positive memories. However, one night, Jacques found himself in adangerous predicament where he had to protect himself and his little brother.While on their way home one night from an event, they made a turn down a one-waystreet that appeared to be free and clear of people. As they were halfway through theone-way street, another man entered the passageway they were walking through. Asthe person came closer, they could see he had a gun in his pocket, which he soon pointedat them. As the gunman pointed his gun at Jacques more than his brother, his brotherimmediately ran. Jacques jumped forward and hit the gun away to the ground, effectivelydisarming the gunman. He sprinted as fast as he could around the corner without lookingback, eventually catching up with his younger brother. Jacques notes that the “situationwas terrifying, but I’m appreciative that we came out alive.” Although this was a harshlesson, Jacques says this situation taught him the importance of "maintaining composureunder pressure." He started to have an even higher level of confidence about him.90PEACEPLAYERS SOUTH AFRICA STORYBOOK
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