Malaak Compton-Rock, ex-wife of Chris Rock, is deeply committed to empowering youth and fostering positive change in South Africa. Her organization, Journey for Change, takes at-risk youth from Brooklyn on transformative service trips to Diepsloot, a township near Johannesburg.
From Tourist to Advocate: Malaak Compton-Rock’s South African Journey
Compton-Rock’s initial visit to South Africa was purely touristic. However, a visit to Diepsloot exposed her to the harsh realities of poverty and the devastating impact of AIDS on families. A poignant encounter with a grandmother in Diepsloot ignited Compton-Rock’s passion for helping the community.
Malaak Compton-Rock and Dr. Steve Perry
The grandmother’s plea for action, “What are you gonna do about this?”, resonated deeply with Compton-Rock. This encounter marked the beginning of her long-term commitment to Diepsloot and the birth of her numerous philanthropic endeavors.
Empowering Grandmothers and Supporting Vulnerable Children
Compton-Rock’s work in Diepsloot focuses on empowering grandmothers raising orphaned grandchildren due to the AIDS epidemic. She implemented programs teaching financial literacy, modern banking practices, and sustainable urban farming techniques. These initiatives equip grandmothers with the skills and resources needed to generate income, support their families, and improve their living conditions.
Compton-Rock also facilitated the sale of donated Liz Claiborne handbags, providing the grandmothers with access to higher-income markets and enabling them to significantly improve their livelihoods.
Journey for Change: Transforming Lives Through Travel and Service
Journey for Change, Compton-Rock’s flagship program, provides at-risk youth from Brooklyn with the opportunity to volunteer in Diepsloot. This immersive experience exposes them to global poverty, encourages them to dream bigger, and fosters a sense of social responsibility.
The program aims to broaden the perspectives of disadvantaged youth by exposing them to different cultures and allowing them to contribute to meaningful change. By shifting from being recipients of aid to givers, these young people gain a deeper understanding of global issues and their own potential.
Partnering with Dr. Steve Perry and Expanding the Impact
In 2017, Compton-Rock partnered with Dr. Steve Perry, founder of Capital Preparatory Magnet School, to expand Journey for Change. Twenty-six students from Capital Prep joined the program, embarking on a 25-day service and learning trip to South Africa.
This collaboration combined Compton-Rock’s passion for service with Dr. Perry’s commitment to educational excellence, providing a unique opportunity for students to develop leadership skills and gain a global perspective.
Advocacy and Long-Term Impact
Upon returning to the US, Journey for Change participants engage in advocacy work, meeting with congressional leaders to raise awareness about global issues and the importance of foreign aid.
Compton-Rock’s dedication to service extends beyond Journey for Change. Her youngest daughter was adopted from South Africa, further solidifying her connection to the country.
Malaak Compton-Rock’s Legacy: A Commitment to Positive Change
Malaak Compton-Rock’s work exemplifies the power of individual action to create lasting change. Through Journey for Change and her other initiatives, she continues to empower vulnerable communities and inspire future generations of leaders. Her commitment to South Africa and its people demonstrates the profound impact of one person’s dedication to making a difference in the world.
