Mitchells Plain children celebrate Heritage Day with Beacon of Hope
Beacon of Hope, a non-profit, celebrated Heritage Day on Wednesday, September 24, at YMCA Rotary Camp, which was attended by children from various communities, joined by Tafelsig East Neighborhood Watch and various organisations.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Children from across Mitchell’s Plain gathered at the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) Rotary Camp in Strandfontein to celebrate Heritage Day, taking part in sports, games, and activities aimed at promoting unity and positivity.
Tarryn De Reuck, founder of Beacon of Hope, a non-profit, said the event on Wednesday, September 24, was designed to bring children together from different communities.
“I run soup kitchens in Beacon Valley and Eastridge, and we also have rehabilitation programs for children,” she said.
“Many of the kids at today’s program are part of our rehabilitation centre. We’re here to have fun, but also to send a positive message. Instead of violence, we focus on sports, recreation, and building a positive mindset.”
She said the event brought together children from Tafelsig, Beacon Valley, Eastridge, and Lentegeur.
“We want these children to return to their communities carrying this message, showing that we can unite, play together, and support one another. It’s about fostering unity and positivity, and teaching them that standing together is stronger than division.”
Enricho Ohlson, co-founder of Beacon of Hope, said: “These areas often have conflicts with each other, but today the kids can experience sports, fun, and unity. We want to show them a positive side of life and encourage them to make a positive impact in their communities.”
Stella Cornelissen, chairperson of the Tafelsig East Neighbourhood Watch, said the organisation wanted to focus on less privileged children.
“We could have spent today with our own families, but we felt it was important to be with children who are less privileged,” she said.
For the children, the day was full of excitement. Azaiah Van Aarde, 12, from Beacon Valley, said: “We’re playing soccer, netball, and volleyball. We’re having so much fun. They shoot where I stay, but it’s safe here.”
Taylor Ohlsson, 15, from Lentegeur, said she enjoyed watching the sports and celebrating her culture. “What I enjoy most about my heritage is the traditional dance.”