​As the world observes International Child and Youth Care Workers Week from 6 to 12 May, the Gauteng Department of Social Development honours the dedication and impact of Child and Youth Care Workers (CYCWs) in its institutions, individuals who work tirelessly to care for and protect society’s most vulnerable children.

CYCWs play a vital role in nurturing the development and well-being of children and youth across communities. One such committed professional is Thabang Lehoko, a Child and Youth Care Worker at Mabutho Hlatshwayo CYCC in Heidelberg, located in the Southern Corridor.

Lehoko said his greatest reward is witnessing children in care grow into responsible, self-sufficient adults. One of the most fulfilling moments of his career, he says, is when he successfully reunites children with their long-lost families.

“I fell in love with the profession in 2001 when I was sent by the Anglican Church to work with vulnerable children, and I decided to stay and become a full-time Care Worker,” he shared.

Originally from Ratanda, the 49-year-old is a proud father of two daughters. For Lehoko, child and youth care work is not just a job, it’s a calling. He has served the Department for five years, bringing with him over two decades of experience from his previous roles at Bosasa Youth Development Centre in Krugersdorp (16 years) and St Mary’s Children’s Home (4 years).

As the profession gains recognition this week, Lehoko urges greater awareness and appreciation for child and youth care work, which he feels is often misunderstood or under-acknowledged.

“Let us use this moment to appreciate and recognise Child and Youth Care Workers in our society. More must be done to advance the field academically. Our life-space interventions and child advocacy work should not be restricted by institutional bottlenecks,” he said.

His call is a reminder that beyond the care and structure they provide daily, CYCWs are also champions of hope, healing, and long-term transformation for the children they serve.