Dazzling Divas Fitness Club in Eastridge celebrates a year of empowering seniors

The Dazzling Divas Fitness Club in Eastridge is celebrating the end of a successful year, with founder Valerie Hendricks saying it was the organisation's "best year yet."

For the past three years, the 20-member women’s group has supported both the young and the elderly through fitness, nutrition, and social support.

The club trains seniors, cooks for the needy, and donates sanitary towels to vulnerable residents.

Secretary Shahieda Lazarus said she was proud of the work they have accomplished in Mitchell’s Plain since 2020.

“We started after realising that many seniors were living under stressful conditions. Some were sick, while others had no one to talk to or look after them. We brought them together so they could share their stories and support each other,” she said. “Training them to exercise and helping them live stress-free lives has made a significant difference.”

However, their journey has not been without challenges, she said. With no sponsorship, the members have funded all their programmes from their own pockets.

“We do everything ourselves,” Ms Lazarus said. “Sometimes a Good Samaritan will donate something small like rice, but most of what we do comes directly from our own pockets. Our motivation to help has kept us going.”

Ms Lazarus said as a result of the work they do, several seniors who were previously bedridden or suffering strokes brought on by stress have shown significant improvement through regular exercise and support.

Ms Hendricks, a sports lover, said she started the club because she couldn’t bear to see seniors sitting at home with nothing to do. She never imagined it would grow so quickly.

“This year has been our best yet,” she said. “The smiles on their faces and their willingness to go beyond what is expected make this group truly special.”

To celebrate the end of the year, Ms Hendricks is treating the seniors to a well-deserved weekend getaway in Tulbagh. “This is my second trip with them in 2023. It’s my way of giving back and honouring these senior citizens. They have been through a lot, and now it’s time for them to relax and enjoy themselves,” she said.

With bags packed and accommodation prepared, the Dazzling Divas seniors recently took to the dance floor, hands in the air and hips swaying, as they celebrated the announcement of their upcoming all-women’s trip.

“The ladies are very excited — rightfully so,” Hendricks said. “It’s time to cool our heads before the new year. We’ll return refreshed and ready to continue the work.”