Rani and Saminathan Yettian at their Phoenix home that they moved into 50 years ago.
Image: Nadia Khan
FOR the past five decades, Saminathan Yettian, a pioneer resident of Phoenix, has significantly contributed to community upliftment, including by providing first aid training and support at events.
Yettian, 91, was among the first residents to be moved to Stonebridge following the establishment of Phoenix in 1976.
He was born and lived in Cato Manor for most of his life. However, he together with his wife, Rani Yettian, 81, and their five children (one of whom is now late) were moved due to the Group Areas Act.
Yettian, a retired supervisor for Unilever, said they were provided a brick house by the then City Council (now eThekwini Municipalilty).
“It was quite a change, in a good sense, as we lived in a wood-and-tin house in Cato Manor. When we moved to the new house, it had three bedrooms, a lounge, a kitchen and an inside toilet. But it was just a basic structure. We put up fencing, and built a small garden that my wife and I enjoy spending time in.”
Yettian said that before developments could take place, they were surrounded by sugar cane plantations.
“There weren’t any shops, halls, sports grounds, libraries or religious buildings when we first moved into the area. These facilities were built later. A milk van came to the area every few days, as well as a ‘tuckshop van’ from where we could buy bread and other small items.”
Yettian said despite the lack of facilities, they lived a peaceful and happy life.
“We lived a simple life, and it was very safe living in Phoenix. Crime wasn’t a concern. I travelled by train to work, and returned quite late some evenings. I had to walk home from the train station, a few kilometres away, but I felt no fear. Nowadays, we keep worrying about our safety.”
Yettian said he started the Phoenix branch of the South African Red Cross Society.
“It was during a school assembly that a guest speaker introduced me to first aid, sparking an unexpected passion within me. I envisioned myself in a white coat, healing and helping others. I also thought that completing my university studies would secure me a job with a good salary and I could give my family a better life.
"However, tragedy struck soon after. My father fell very ill and his illness forced me to abandon my education in Standard 4, and I sought employment to support my family.”
Yettian said while working, he became friends with people who shared his passion for first aid.
“We established a South African Red Cross Society detachment in Cato Manor. We empowered ourselves with first-aid classes and served the community by providing first aid where needed. I owned a detachment and trained my members in first aid. We did a lot of voluntary work. At just 19 years old, I embarked on a lifelong journey of serving humanity. This marked the beginning of my commitment to helping others and making a positive impact on the world.”
Yettian said after relocating to Phoenix, he established another detachment.
“My new life in Phoenix was marked by insistent activity. I had a multitude of duties, including school sports, soccer duties and temple duties. Although demanding, these responsibilities gave me a sense of purpose. As a dedicated member of the VAC 42 Phoenix Detachment and the Phoenix Local Committee, I have witnessed the power of community spirit first-hand. These committees remain vibrant and active to this day, a testament to our shared commitment. The detachment also served during the 1985 Inanda riots, maintaining 24-hour duty at the Greenbury Community Hall to render first aid and assistance.
“Many of my junior members whom I had the privilege of training have gone on to achieve remarkable successes. From medical doctors and nurses to radiologists, surgeons and paramedics, our youth development programme has produced outstanding professionals who are making a meaningful impact in their respective fields. Some have even become entrepreneurs, owning their own emergency services,” he said.
Yettian added that he currently serves as a commissioner for VAC 42 Phoenix Detachment.
“This role allows me to continue making a positive impact and giving back to my community.”
Yettian has served on various other committees and organisations in Phoenix.
These include as the chairperson of management advisory committee of the Phoenix Regional Health and Welfare Centre, an executive member in the Phoenix Community Police Forum and as part of the Stonebridge Civic Association.
He is also a member of the Friends of the Sick Association and the Stonebridge Clinic committee.
“I remain committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Every Wednesday, I lovingly serve nourishing soup to the patients at the clinic, bringing warmth and comfort to those in need.”