Mr South Africa ended up in an orphanage after his mother died and his dad left them, but the passionate South African recounts how his new home, made him feel safe.
Cape Town, South Africa (24 February 2020) – Mr South Africa 2019, Heinrich Gabler, has a story that inspires. He faced a hard childhood, from facing abuse, to losing his mother and being abandoned by his father. But, he has always believed that life is made up of 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.
This is his story; he shared it while visiting the children’s home he grew up in. Heinrich’s life truly changed after his mother died in a car accident. His father was living and working in Germany, and the then 9-year-old, along with his siblings, were left to bury their mother and carve a life of their own. His father visited South Africa but left shortly after the funeral. Heinrich, along with his older sister and two brothers, was then brought to House Andrew Murray (HAM), a Children’s Home in Wellington.
This is where he found peace. He had a bed to sleep in, a roof over his head and daily meals. It became his refuge, a place where he could be a child again. As he grew older, Heinrich started questioning life, his beliefs and his purpose.
Thankfully, he met Dieter Voigt (Mr South Africa 2007), who inspired him to work towards becoming Mr South Africa. In 2019, that dream became a reality.
Heinrich has used his platform to change lives. From collecting sporting equipment for children to inspiring people and building hope by sharing his story. You can read his full story here or watch the video below.
“I don’t give because I have; I give because I know what it means not to have.” – Heinrich Gabler, Mr South Africa 2019
If you would like to get involved with House Andrew Murray and the work they do, get in touch with Valcare at [email protected].
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