Stanley Jacobs shared his inspiring story
Image: Facebook
Stanley Jacobs, 45, is a name that has become synonymous with the spirit of the Cape Flats.
Founder of the ever-growing social media page Cape Flats Stories, Jacobs has turned his passion for community into a platform that reaches over half a million people—becoming a daily staple for many in South Africa.
Born and raised in the heart of the Cape Flats,- Parkwood, Grassy Park and Mitchells Plain, Jacobs’ life has been anything but easy.
He attended several primary schools across the area, and his early years were marked by struggles. At one point, he failed both Grade 3 and Standard 6 (grade 8).
"I feared I would become just another statistic, perhaps fall into a life of crime like so many of my peers," said Jacobs.
"But something within me always pushed me to strive for more, to not give up, no matter the odds."
His journey wasn't just about academic challenges.
Jacobs has faced his own battles with epilepsy, which he was diagnosed with later in life.
"There were times when I thought I wouldn’t be able to keep going. Epilepsy was a huge challenge that I didn’t understand at first. It took me to a dark place," Jacobs recalled.
"I even considered ending it all, but my family and my community kept me grounded."
Despite the challenges, Jacobs pressed on.
Today, he is not only a father of two children but a qualified IT technician who hustled to pay for tuition.
Jacobs is also a beacon of hope for the people of Cape Flats, showing them that success is possible, regardless of one’s background.
The social media page Cape Flats Stories have become a fan favourite
Image: Facebook
Jacobs takes pride in his third baby, Cape Flats Stories, which he said started as a simple idea: a way to highlight the untold stories of everyday people, the culture, the struggles, and the triumphs that often go unnoticed in the mainstream media.
"When I started the page, it was more about telling the real stories of the Cape Flats.
“People were tired of seeing only negative portrayals of our communities," Jacobs explained.
"We have so much to offer, and I wanted to give the people here a voice."
Through his platform, Jacobs has fostered a sense of community and pride, and the page has evolved into a space where people share not just personal stories, but also vital information, advice, and support, with Jacobs having live podcasts with political leaders, members of parliament and influencers.
Jacobs interviewing comedian Alfred Adriaan
Image: Facebook
It’s a place where people from all walks of life can come together to connect, laugh, and reflect on the shared experience of life in the Cape Flats.
The page’s meteoric rise is testament to Jacobs’ ability to tap into something deeper—a longing for connection, understanding, and a desire to change the narrative.
What started as a passion project has now become an influential force.
He credits his children and the support of those around him for much of his success.
"Becoming a father changed me," said Jacobs. "It gave me a reason to keep pushing forward. I wanted to create something meaningful for them, something they could be proud of."
Looking ahead, Jacobs plans to continue his mission to empower and uplift the community.
His next major goal is to raise awareness about diabetes, a condition that is prevalent in the Cape Flats and has deeply impacted his own family.
"Diabetes is something we don't talk enough about. I want to make sure people understand the importance of early detection and healthy living I want them to know that it's possible to live a healthy life, look at me, someone who couldn't even walk from my bed to the bathroom without struggling to breathe, now I am doing 10km’s walks and let me tell you its amazing!," Jacobs explained.
Weekend Argus
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