MA ROSE, or Makhulu(grandmother) is how Rosemary Milbank has affectionately been known after advocating for the residents of Masiphumelele over the past year.
Ma Rose, 64, from Fish Hoek, says she has overcome any preconceptions and fears and now strives to help the community of the township she has grown to love.
Her aim is to help people regain their dignity.
Ma Rose is a retired tour guide and her husband Christopher, a helicopter pilot, died a few year ago.
“I admit I had fears and preconceptions, but challenged myself to find out more about this community.
"The unity within the community, so close to where I stay, just amazed me,” said Milbank.
She said her first interaction with the community was at the Simon’s Town Magistrate's Court last year.
“Community leaders were accused of the murder of three alleged drug dealers and I went to learn more about what happened.
"I was in the middle of their toyi-toying and they welcomed me in, and from then on I guess I became a social activist.”
She does not regret meeting one of the accused, Lubabalo Velem, said Milbank.
“I was afraid because of what I had heard about him, but decided to find out for myself. He is one of the kindest souls I have ever met.”
She has since been welcomed by the community and has been horrified by their living conditions.
“There is so much people don’t know and choose to believe about townships.
"What I saw breaks my heart as children play near raw sewage and the government does little to change the situation.”
She said while their are many plans and promises, the township still needs a police station and basic services.
Resident Aron Mayiya said Milbank was a blessing as she keeps the government on their toes.
“She keeps them and us in line and says as much as government must help us we must also help ourselves.
"She has been a blessing and helps us who can't get answers or help from officials,” said Mayiya.
Mother Lungisa Dlavuza said Milbank understands, as a mother, the health dangers and she appreciates her fighting for them.
Milbank said people should learn more about the living conditions of people who raise their children or work in their kitchens or restaurants.
She said people needed to realise how everyone could be affected by the conditions people live in.
“People live in the most horrific conditions, next to sewage and outdoor toilets, often with no street lights.
"They contract diseases in these conditions and then carry them to their work places,” Milbank added.