Backchat on Bush Radio: Inspiring Change Through Ubuntu – A Conversation with Ricardo Erasmus Backchat on Bush Rad

 

Backchat on Bush Radio: Inspiring Change Through Ubuntu – A Conversation with Ricardo Erasmus

Backchat on Bush Radio recently hosted an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation with Ricardo Erasmus, founder of the Paradigm Shift Academy and the Ricardo Erasmus Foundation. Joined by his long-time friend and collaborator Nathan Ludovic, Erasmus shared his powerful journey, his vision for youth development, and his unwavering commitment to transforming communities on the Cape Flats.

Originally from Beacon Valley in Mitchells Plain, Erasmus grew up in a modest home filled with as many as 20 to 30 people at a time. Despite the challenges, this upbringing instilled in him a deep sense of Ubuntu  the belief in shared humanity, compassion, and collective responsibility. “I am because we are,” he reflected, describing how this philosophy continues to shape every aspect of his life, from his work to his relationships.

Erasmus’s early life included a promising football career, having played professionally for Santos. However, a devastating ankle injury abruptly ended his sporting journey, plunging him into a difficult period marked by emotional and mental struggles. Instead of allowing this setback to define him, he found purpose in his pain. Today, he is a transformational life coach, youth mentor, and motivational speaker who travels internationally, empowering others to overcome adversity and unlock their potential.

After spending nearly two decades between the United Kingdom and other parts of the world, Erasmus returned to Cape Town with a vision he had nurtured for over 20 years   to give back to the community that shaped him. This vision materialised in the form of the Ricardo Erasmus Foundation, which aims to address the lack of opportunities and positive role models for young people on the Cape Flats.

Nathan Ludovic, who has worked extensively in community spaces such as Lavender Hill, Steenberg, and Overcome Heights, highlighted the harsh realities faced by many young people. He pointed to the growing issues of gangsterism, violence, and the absence of mentorship, noting how deeply environment influences mindset. “If survival is all you see, survival is what you become,” he explained.

The foundation’s approach is rooted in exposure and mindset transformation. With their guiding motto, “See more, be more, achieve more,” Erasmus and his team aim to broaden young people’s perspectives by introducing them to opportunities and environments beyond their immediate surroundings. Whether it’s educational programmes, mentorship, or simply exposing youth to new experiences outside their communities, the goal is to help them envision a different future.

One of the most inspiring success stories shared during the interview was that of Declan, a young man from Overcome Heights. Despite facing severe challenges   including being injured by a stray bullet  Declan persevered with the support of Ludovic and Erasmus. Today, he is studying at the University of the Witwatersrand, a testament to the transformative power of mentorship, resilience, and belief.

Erasmus emphasised that true change begins within. “Everything you need to succeed is already inside of you,” he said, encouraging young people to shift their mindset and take ownership of their future. He also called on community members, leaders, and organisations to work together, reinforcing the idea that meaningful change requires collective effort.

The conversation ended with a message of encouragement to both change-makers and dreamers. Erasmus urged listeners not to grow weary in their efforts to make a difference, reminding them that impact takes time but is always worthwhile. For those with visions of uplifting their communities, his message was clear: the time to act is now.

The Ricardo Erasmus Foundation continues to welcome support, collaboration, and engagement from individuals and organisations passionate about youth development and community upliftment.

This powerful discussion on Backchat highlights that while the challenges facing young people on the Cape Flats are significant, so too is the potential for transformation when purpose, passion, and Ubuntu come together.

Written by Khanyiswa Mdladlamba

Catch backchat on Bush Radio 89.5 FM bringing conversations that inform, inspire and connect communities across the world.

Backchat on Bush Radio hosted this interview.