‘It hurts, but they give what is in their hearts’

THABANI Chauca flashes a gold tooth and a thumbs-up to a passing motorist. “That’s one of the regulars,” he beams. The 25-year-old believes he will make the most from the Paper Money at his side of the intersection because he has so many “regulars”.

“I’ve been here for a year-and-a-half, at the same spot every morning. I’ve had people who pass here every day on their way to work. They stop and ask about my life and help me with clothes and food.”

Chauca has a pie and a small container of milk in his hand, given to him by one of his “regulars” and wears a leather jacket that just fits him, another donation from a regular.

“This makes me happy, it shows me how caring people are. To think that I cross their minds when they are at home maybe thinking about throwing something out or selling it, instead they think of giving it to me.”

Chauca has his fair share of being sworn at, shown middle fingers, people rolling up their windows when he approaches, others handing him rotten food, or trying to run him over. “I can’t let that get me down. Things like that hurt but I still wave and smile, I don’t get angry, I can’t – they don’t owe me anything, what they give comes from their hearts.”

Some days, he does not make any money, but every day he believes is a chance for his life to change. “I mean look at this Paper Money project, I’m going to be wearing a uniform and selling newspapers, things are already looking up, who knows what will happen next.”

Chauca matriculated with a bachelor’s pass and wanted to study to be a tour guide, but his dreams were shattered by a “complicated” family life.

He is quick to declare that the rift which caused him to leave home for the streets was not caused by drugs.

“I don’t do drugs or steal. I’m a normal person with dreams and ambitions. I’m going to work really hard on this project and be the best seller, just wait and see,” he enthuses.