Towards meaningful social development in the covid-19 era: Strategies for capacity building in a gang-affected community in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), South Africa

At the second think-tank session of Helenvale Dialogues initiative held in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, May 2018, main theme focused on scenario planning for community Helenvale, regarded as one most fragile and volatile communities Elizabeth.  The author, an invited member think-tank, engaged group discussions with other attendees, aim outlining three possible scenarios where could find itself by 2030. None predicted impact Covid-19 pandemic which began 2020, wreaked havoc across country globally. Within this context, article highlights what author considers to be key focus areas meaningful capacity building social development community, order avoid negative that particularly within “new normal” environment. Attention is given challenge gangsterism gang violence, serious issues affecting community.   Key words: Social development, building, Covid-19, gangsterism, urban upgrading initiative, coaching, subculture, indigenous knowledge, Elizabeth (Gqeberha).