Former Drakenstein Prison inmate has published a book about his life behind bars.
Ishmael Baradien, from Island in Philippi, said he started writing his book titled The Ugly American while he was still in custody. He says his aim is to educate young people about the dangers of thug life.
Baradien (44), who refused to dwell on the details of the book, says he has been living a clean life since he was in prison.
“I started being naughty at the age of 10. I joined a gang group called ‘Ugly American’ which was based at Bonteheuwel. We did a lot of things terrorising the communities. And I was arrested many times. Then in 2012, I was arrested again and I stayed in Drakenstein Maximum Prison. While I was in jail I started doing my own introspection and that’s where I started to change my life inside the prison. I started writing my book in 2015 and continued until 2017,” he stated, adding that he was sentenced for 15 years but he got a parole in the 10th year and was released in January this year.
Baradien said he was arrested numerous times without giving too much information about his arrests.
“This book is about the story of my life and the Cape Flats. It also shows parents and other children how easy it is to be lured into gangsterism. Now, I want to redeem my life and be a good father to my two daughters aged 13 and 26 years,” he said.
Baradien is part of Funda Mzantsi Project which is spearheaded by the National Library of South Africa (NLSA) to instilling the culture of reading to the inmates.
Following his release, he said he became a motivational speaker visiting schools in Mitchell’s Plain and Gugulethu.
“My aim is to see young people refrain from joining gang groups and substance abuse. I always encourage young people to focus on their studies,”he said.
Pollsmoor prison communication manager Mkhanyisi Sphendu said before Baradien was released from Drakenstein prison he was transferred to Pollsmoor.
“As he was about to be released we were communicating with the Drakenstein prison. We had to verify his home address and ensure that he has a good support structure from the family,” said Sphendu.
He stated that as a Correctional Service department is working together with the NLSA to ensure that all the offenders are rehabilitated. He described Baradien is an ambassador for NLSA. He is visiting schools motivating and educating learners about the danger of gangsterism and life in prison.