In the heart of Raiwaqa, 66-year-old retiree Sikeli Toroca has dedicated the past four years to ensuring the safety of children near Vishnu Deo Primary School. Each weekday, he can be seen at a bustling traffic light on Grantham Road, willingly volunteering his time to help young students cross safely. Armed with homemade road signs, Toroca serves as an unofficial traffic guide, motivated by a profound concern for the safety of the children he sees navigating the potentially dangerous roadway.
“No one asked me to do this,” Toroca explained, underscoring that his initiative is rooted in a passion to protect the community’s children. During busy school hours, he collaborates with teachers, allowing them to concentrate on their responsibilities while he ensures the students cross the street safely.
His dedication stems from empathy for the families of these children. Toroca expressed, “I think of their parents who would be at home or work, hoping their children are safe on our roads.” He considers community safety a shared duty, advocating for the idea that every citizen should contribute to the well-being of their neighborhood.
Toroca’s extensive experience as a former safety officer for the Public Works Department enhances his ability to identify potential hazards on the road. His background in quality control equips him with a keen eye to notice and address dangerous conditions created by negligent drivers who may overlook pedestrian safety.
Beyond his volunteer efforts, Toroca has built positive relationships with local law enforcement and school officials, who appreciate his contributions to the safety of the community. “They’ve thanked me for my contribution, and I told them I would always assist them,” he noted, furthering the notion that a collective approach is vital for maintaining secure neighborhoods.
An active participant in local parliamentary sessions, Toroca discusses critical issues, such as his compensation from the Public Works Department. Despite life’s challenges, he holds a hopeful perspective, stating, “No matter what life throws my way, I will continue to help out in communities because no man is an island.”
Sikeli Toroca’s story exemplifies the profound influence that one dedicated individual can have on their community. His actions serve as a motivational reminder of how selfless contributions can foster safer, more supportive environments. Through his unwavering commitment to volunteerism, Toroca inspires those around him to engage in acts of kindness, showcasing the power of collective efforts in building a nurturing community.