A Heinz Park man’s dream of becoming a qualified midwife is finally coming true.
In September 2020, the Daily Voice introduced you to Tashreeq Perry, a 25-year-old dad of three (with one on the way) who is a hero in his community.
Tashreeq had a calling to be a midwife, after he safely helped bring FOUR babies into the world, including his own brother.
Last year, in September, he single-handedly delivered one of his neighbours’ babies.
Ronnel Diamond said she was grateful to Tashreeq for coming to her rescue when paramedics could not reach her in time due to gang shootings.
The 24-year-old says he was first drawn to midwifery in 2018 when his mother was pregnant with his baby brother.
“I fell in love with this because I read about it and also did a little course on the birthing process,” he says.
His mom’s water broke at home, the baby was already crowning and there was no time to get to the hospital, so he got stuck in and helped deliver the baby.
With his own baby due in April, Tashreeq says he received a double blessing when a sponsor decided to help him reach his goal of becoming a midwife.
In January, the Cape Argus published his story which attracted a generous donor.He received assistance from Rashaad Sambada, the chief executive at the Skills Academy, who has arranged for him to receive two bursaries valued at R25 000, to complete his high school studies.
As soon as this is done, he will apply at a local university to study paramedics.
“I'm really grateful for this opportunity,” he says.
“When I'm done with my matric, I will be doing my paramedic course, which is also paid for by an anonymous donor.”
Tashreeq says this is a dream come true, not only for his passion but also to sustain his family.
“I feel great, honoured, blessed and I feel good about myself, like my life has meaning.”
Tashreeq and his wife are both unemployed and depend on a Sassa grant. Tashreeq says when his wife goes into labour, he won't be the midwife: “I would want her to go to hospital, I'm not yet qualified, but if it is an emergency and medical personnel cannot come, I'll deliver my baby, yes.”