The Foundation had the pleasure of joining Ikamva Labantu to celebrate International Older Persons Day with an event dedicated to honouring their elderly beneficiaries.
Ikamva operates 17 social clubs across vulnerable communities in Cape Town, serving older persons with essential support. Through these clubs, elders receive psychosocial care, regular health checks, and opportunities to learn, gain awareness, and take part in income-generating initiatives. Care is delivered by a dedicated multidisciplinary team of social workers, nurses and community-based workers who provide support both at the clubs and through home-based care for those unable to attend.
The celebration was filled with wonderful songs and dancing, led by a spirited choir of elderly members from the social clubs who delighted the audience and set a joyful tone for the day. A panel discussion followed, chaired by Ikamva’s Senior Partnerships Lead, Barbara Miller. The panel featured Ikamva founder Helen Lieberman, Older Persons Programme Manager Lulama Sigasana, Cape Town Mayor Gordon Hill-Lewis, and one of Ikamva’s beneficiaries, who shared her personal experiences of being a senior citizen within her community.
The conversation highlighted some of the challenges facing older persons, including violence and crime. The Mayor shared measures being taken to address safety, while panellists stressed the importance of families reporting criminals to protect the vulnerable. Another important theme was the need to build stronger intergenerational connections, creating meaningful links between older and younger people, a focus that Ikamva continues to drive.
The day was alive with music, dance, and celebration, making it a truly special occasion for the elders. We are deeply appreciative of the work Ikamva Labantu does to support and uplift some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.
