A little consideration...
KEANANHARMSE
“We’re not helpless, but infrastructure fails us daily.”
Blind safety expert
Cars parked on pavements, construction boards blocking walkways, and open trenches without warning signs are some of the daily hazards that force blind pedestrians into dangerous situations
This week, People’s Post is shining a light on the lives and daily challenges of the blind and visually impaired whose struggles can often be overlooked in the rush of day
Cape Town Society for the Blind (CTSB) awareness officer Sergil
January is blind and says they try to empower visually impaired people through training, employment support, mobility, and independent-living skills
CTSB was founded in 1929 by a group of women from Cape Town who identified the need to provide training and employment opportunities for blind and visually impaired persons within a secure and supportive environment The society has remained true to its mission for over 90 years and has become a beacon of hope to individuals who need to navigate the complex world without sight
“Most blind people start the day with structured routines at home This includes preparing meals with tactile markers, organising clothing, and planning movement for the day Independence is very possible at home with proper training and tools,” he says
Navigating public spaces still remains a struggle for the blind and visually impaired
“Streets and malls are risky due to obstacles such as vehicles parked on pavements, open trenches, construction boards, and other motorist hazards These hazards are a constant safety concern At home, daily living is largely independent The real limitations occur when interacting with public spaces or workplaces that are not accommodating ”
The essential assistive tools for the blind are: white canes, tactile markers, talking appliances, Braille labels, and mobility training are essential for safety and orientation, January added Common accessibility barriers in Cape Town are also a challenge when the blind are travelling
“Uneven sidewalks, blocked pathways, poor tactile paving, and obstacles left by motorists create hazards Lack of public awareness and poorly maintained spaces reduce confidence and safety Blocked or uneven pavements force us into the road, increasing risk of traffic accidents Obstacles like construction boards or vehicles compromise mobility and safety,” he says
January is appealing to business owners to help implement clear walkways, tactile indicators, trained staff, and respect for personal space
When it comes to public transport some of the biggest challenges are: unreliable schedules and unsafe boarding areas, he adds
NAVIGATING PUBLIC SPACES REMAINS A STRUGGLE FOR THE BLIND
“Even with announcements, poor infrastructure or delays leave us vulnerable People often assume blindness equals helplessness In reality, independence is possible,
but society’s attitudes, public infrastructure, and workplace awareness often limit us ” In the workplace, the misperceptions about blindness limits employment opportunities “Workplaces often underestimate abilities, limiting opportunities more than blindness itself Inclusive employers make a huge difference Fear or ignorance about blindness restricts growth, even when tools and accommodations are available,” he concludes
TakeahikeforacleanerTableMountain
Table Mountain Aerial Cableway Company (TMACC), in partnership with South African National Parks (SANParks), invites Capetonians and visitors to lace up their hiking boots for the annual Take a Hike day on Saturday 15 November
This popular initiative encourages participants to take to the mountain hiking, exploring and cleaning as they go while collecting litter along the trails and helping to “leave it better than you found it”
The event starts at 06:00, with check-in open between 06:00 and 10:00, and activities running at the top station until 17:00
The day celebrates both conservation and community connection to one of the world’s most celebrated natural landmarks
Now in its fifth year, Take a Hike Day has grown into a signature TMACC event, attracting hundreds of nature enthusiasts, families, and community volunteers
Over 300 hikers participated last year, collecting nearly 60 kg of litter from Table Mountain’s trails, a simple but powerful act of care for Cape Town’s beloved natural wonder
This year, participants can take part in hike by choosing one of three scenic routes, each offering a unique experience of the mountain:
.Platteklip Gorge – one of the more popular hiking routes on Table Mountain
.The Contour Path – starting next to the small traffic circle at the Lower Cableway Station, a steep
climb for more experienced hikers
.Kloof Corner – a shorter but steeper climb with breathtaking views over the city and Atlantic Ocean
Each route offers hikers the chance to enjoy Table Mountain at their own pace while helping to keep it pristine for generations to come
Participants will receive a free cable car ride down, along with snack packs and refreshments at the summit, courtesy of TMACC
Wahida Parker, Managing Director of TMACC, says: “Take a Hike Day is about more than just a climb - it’s a celebration of community, conservation and care ”
“Each year we ’ re reminded of how powerful it is when people come together to protect the
spaces that make Cape Town so special ” Megan Taplin, Park Manager: Table Mountain National Park, says as custodians of this unique and biodiverse landscape, they are always encouraged to see the public taking an active role in caring for the park
“Take a Hike Day is a wonderful example of how collaboration between SANParks, TMACC, and the community can make a meaningful difference, reminding us that conservation works best when everyone plays their part ” Taplin encouraged people to exercise caution on the mountain . Pre-registration online is required in order to participate
To register visit https://forms office com/r/aU7J6itQAH
We live in a country that never fails to leave me either sighing in disbelief or laughing just to avoid crying Because honestly, what else can you do? It’s hard not to feel disheartened when every headline seems to echo the same sad story: violence, corruption, murders, and gang wars tearing through our beautiful nation
One incident that left me both shocked and amused was the story of a German tourist who made headlines for the rather peculiar way he was robbed Only in South Africa could a rob-
bery turn into a moral lesson
Late last month, while enjoying a sunset hike on Signal Hill, the tourist was confronted by a self-proclaimed gangster armed with a stick
The suspect allegedly took R100 in cash, but the encounter didn’t end there As he went through the tourist’s backpack, he stumbled upon a pack of cigarettes and decided to offer some unwanted advice: a stern warning about the dangers of smoking
To me this perfectly summed up the absurdity of crime in this country: brazen, unpredictable, and so common that it feels almost surreal
What stands out is not just the act of robbery itself, but the strange self-awareness of the criminal Here was a man who, in one
breath, declared himself a gangster, and in the next, offered unsolicited health advice
As comical as this sounds, it reveals a chilling truth: Criminals in South Africa no longer hide, they act boldly, guided by a warped sense of morality that excuses their own crimes
To make matters worse these criminals are no longer just found on the streets They are dressed in suits sitting in parliament and walking the corridors of the Union Buildings stealing millions belonging to the poor and taxpayers
How do we hold ordinary criminals to account when some of those in power do the same, on a much larger scale?
This growing brazenness is not an accident It’s the product of years of lack of trust in the police, a lack
of accountability, and a society so desensitised to violence that it often laughs at its own trauma just to cope
When offenders feel empowered enough to toy with their victims to turn a violent encounter into a teachable moment it’s a sign that fear has shifted The fear no longer belongs to the criminals; it belongs to the public
South Africans are forced to navigate this uneasy reality daily From hijackings in traffic to robberies on hiking trails, there’s an ever-present sense that safety is a privilege, not a right
The “philosophical” gangster may grab headlines, but his story points to a bigger problem in a country where crime is so common that even criminals feel comfortable giving moral lessons
A brand new blind-safety road sign was erected on First road near The League of Friends of the Blind in September PHOTO: KEANAN HARMSE
KAYLYNNE BANTOM
Cancerrelay highteaand galadinner
AVRILFILLIES
As a cancer survivor Nadia Gamieldien, chair of Cansa Relay for Life Athlone (CRFLA), she was involved for many years as part of Team PAC and is heading the High Tea event on Saturday 3 December
“This year I was honoured to take on the role of event chairperson The High Tea is sold out and we are now working towards the Gala Dinner end of January next year, ” she says ‘‘Join us in supporting these occasions as we raise funds and awareness for Cansa SA Your support helps us make a real difference in the lives of those affected by cancer offering hope, care and strength to patients and their families,” she says
At the heart of Cansa Relay for Life it is the opportunity to celebrate cancer survivors, to remember those who have left us and create awareness about cancer the disease
Teams of 10 to 15 members ensure one team member is on the track at all times, walking the track for 12 hours which, symbolises that cancer does not sleep
“At 21:00 we have a special ceremony called the Luminaria ceremony dedicated to those who lost their battle to cancer, in honour of those who won and those who are still fighting the disease Relayers pledge during a Fight Back Ceremony to take action and spread awareness about cancer education, advocacy, screening as well as care and support programmes helping to build a world without cancer All our services are listed on the website: https://cansa org za/ or Relay website https://relayforlife org za/
Together we can be strong in the fight against cancer, ” she says
Contact Mildred on 083 308 6058 for gala tickets
Men unite for change
AVRILFILLIES
With November being recognised as Men’s Health Month, the Dr Randall Ortel Foundation is hosting two open days, one in Mitchells Plain on Saturday 22 November and one on Saturday 6 December in Manenberg.
The foundation is a movement to empower, uplift, and transform communities Through initiatives in education, mentorship, and health, the foundation is committed to creating lasting change, one student, one family and one community at a time
Ortel, a respected family physician with over 15 years of experience serving the Cape Flats, has made it his mission to change the narrative
“Both open days are community-centred events aimed to create a safe and engaging space for men to talk openly about health challenges, learn about early detection, and take proactive steps toward better wellbeing,” he says
The 2025 Global Men’s Health Month theme, “Closing the Empathy Gap”, calls for compassion, understanding and active engagement in men ’ s well-being
In South Africa, the focus theme “Check In, Not Out”, urges men to take charge of their health through early detection and regular check-ups
“Men’s health is often overlooked, both in policy and in conversation Many men delay medical care until it’s too late, due to stigma, fear or lack of support Too many of our brothers, fathers and sons are lost to prevent-
LASTING CHANGE,ONE STUDENT,ONE FAMILY AND ONE COMMUNITY AT A TIME
able illnesses We want to shift that reality, one conversation, one check-up and one community at a time,” he says
The open days will feature interactive, talkystyle sessions led by him, covering topics that deeply affect men ’ s lives - diabetes, hypertension, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, mental health, TB, HIV awareness and common cancers The sessions will blend medical insight with humour and heart, creating an atmosphere of openness and trust
The inaugural open day is from 11:00 to 13:00 at the Watergate Medical Centre in Mitchells Plain and the second one on Saturday 6 December in Manenberg
“Funds raised through pledges (minimum R100 donation) will support Early Childhood Development (ECD) initiatives in Manenberg, reinforcing the Foundation’s belief that healthy communities start with healthy families We will also launch the official Friends of the Dr Randall Ortel Foundation, a membership platform for individuals and organisations who wish to support the foundation’s mission Members will receive exclusive invitations to webinars, discounted access to events and a monthly newsletter featuring community impact stories and wellness insights,” Ortel says
“Men’s health is not just a medical issue, it’s
a human issue When a man takes care of his health, he’s also taking care of his family, his relationships and his future The Men’s Health Club is our way of saying: you matter, your health matters, let’s stand together to build stronger, healthier communities, he adds
. Anyone interested in attending one of the two events can register via Google Form link on www drrrandallortelfoundation co za For more information email info@drortel.co.za or WhatsApp 060 592 9558
Walkhonoursallcancerwarriors
AVRILFILLIES
Members of the police Women Network, consisting of police officers and other members of the 63 station precincts of the SA Police City of Cape Town District, showed their compassion and unity on a 10 km Cancer Awareness Walk on Wednesday 29 October along the breathtaking Muizenberg coastline
Dressed in their pink tops, the symbolic walk served not only as a tribute to those affected by cancer but also as a reminder of the importance of early detection and the collective strength of the police community
“The walk, set against the backdrop of the ocean ’ s enduring beauty, mirrors the path of those battling cancer, a journey marked by courage, uncertainty and hope,” said Capt Ian Bennett, spokesperson for Manenberg police, who accompanied his female colleagues on the Cancer Walk
“As police officers we are more than law-enforcement officers; we are a family of human beings who have pledged to protect and serve our nation
“Today we also reaffirm our commitment to promoting healthy living and supporting those among us who face life-altering health challeng-
es ”
He also said many of the operational and support personnel at the 63 station precincts were cancer survivors
“Their stories of perseverance inspire us, and their presence reminds us that healing is not a solitary path, but a shared responsibility
The road to recovery is often long and difficult, but just as the waves continue to meet the shore, we continue to walk in faith, hope and love for life
“The Cancer Walk is more than an event, it is a moment we stand together with you to show that you are not alone in your battle to survive
The Cancer Walk is a declaration that healing is everybody’s business
It is a moment to honour those who have survived, to remember those we have lost, and to stand together as a force to be reckoned with ” Bennett said when police officers unite they are unstoppable, not just in their duty to protect, but their mission to uplift and heal
“As we walked today we were reminded that life, despite its trials, remains beautiful, just as the area we are walking through “Nature’s splendour reflects the resilience of the human spirit, and through every step we
Dr Randall Ortel is leading the two health sessions PHOTO SUPPLIED
Members of the police Women Network, from the 63 station precincts of the SA Police City of Cape Town District, set off on their 10 km Cancer Awareness Walk along the Muizenberg coastline PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
carry the message that God remains God, even in our darkest hours
every survivor you are still you, your strength is our inspiration ” Bennett thanked District Commander Brig Mark Hartzenberg and sponsors Polmed
City legends get ‘highest’ honour
KAYLYNNEBANTOM
Few creative partnerships have captured the soul of Cape Town quite like that of playwright and directors
David Kramer and the late Taliep Petersen
The duo gave voice to the untold stories of ordinary people through timeless works such as District Six: The Musical and Kat and the Kings, productions that have gone beyond entertainment to become powerful reflections on identity and social justice
Years later, their legacy continues to echo deeply with audiences both locally and internationally
To recognise their significant contribution to South African culture and the impact of their artistry the City of Cape Town has announced it will bestow its highest civic honour, The Freedom of the City, on the pair
The recognition event will take place in January next year
The City will also award civic honours and Mayor’s medals to a range of luminaries at a council ceremony later this month
Speaking to People’s Post, Kramer said it felt “wonderful to be acknowledged We got together many years ago and we just worked well together We had no experience of writing musicals and the fact that it turned into the classic that it has become and people are still singing those songs, is heartwarming ” He said they could never have imagined that the productions would make such an impact across the globe District Six the Musical is a story of forced removals and social injustice, which many hold the country is not free of To be able to articulate that on stage and see it resonate with audiences’ own lives and stories as an art form is nothing short of remarkable It probably explains why it has continued to be popular and of significance today ”
Kramer believes Cape Town and its diversity helped shape his and Petersen’s creative journey
“Cape Town has such a wonderful history, which has never really been celebrated What we have here is a syncretic culture and so many things in Cape Town are only here because various people contributed to making some-
DAVID KRAMER SPOKE OF
HOW
HAPPY HIS FRIEND WOULD HAVE BEEN.
thing new My interest has always been in the syncretic creolisation of culture as opposed to apartheid ” He encourages aspiring artists to be unique “Find your identity and stop copying overseas artists You have to find an identity and express something about your life and how you interact with your environment that you grew up in ”
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis says Petersen and Kramer would join historic figures such as former President Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who were among the few people
ever awarded the Freedom of Cape Town
“This legendary duo have not only entertained us over the generations, but have fundamentally shaped South African musical theatre and the rich cultural heritage of the Western Cape “Aside from their countless individual creative achievements, who can forget their masterpiece theatrical collaborations for District Six: The Musical and Kat and the Kings?"
Hill-Lewis says the brilliance of Petersen and Kramer’s productions lay in how they combined entertainment with social commentary and activism, using their work to tell powerful stories of forced removals and community resilience
“We are excited for Capetonians to join us at the ceremony early next year to celebrate these icons on the Grand Parade, an occasion that will bring to life the rich cultural flair of Cape Town that these artists are known for ”
Asked how theatre can continue to play a role in promoting social change in the country today, Kramer said: “We have seen it on the sports field like with rugby and we have seen it in theatre People are able to see themselves and their stories being told on the stage And the interaction between audiences from different walks of life is useful in building a new identity for ourselves ”
He said he cherished countless memories of his friend and thought of him daily
“I have many memories of Taliep, but most importantly is that I miss him very much I think of him every day, especially when I sit in theatre and think ‘what would we have achieved if he was still here?’
“I miss him and am so pleased he is being honoured in this way, with the Freedom of the City ”
MuslimCemeteryBoardbeginsmortuaryconstruction
NAMHLAMONAKALI
The Muslim Cemetery Board has begun construction of a mortuary at Mowbray Cemetery to store and prepare bodies according to Islamic burial rites
The foundation for the first dedicated Muslim mortuary at the site was officially laid on Wednesday 5 November during a ceremony attended by community leaders, including the president of the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC), Sheikh Riyad Fatah, and Justice Siraj Desai Faizal Sayed, chair of the Board, said the facility will serve as a storage and preparation space and will not conduct autopsies
“Upon much advice and consultation, we have opted to create a mortuary, which is for the storage of bodies, because of the pressures that we find in the communities at times,” Sayed said He explained that the mortuary will complement the existing preparation area, launched two to three years ago, where bodies are washed and shrouded according to Islamic burial rites
“The mortuary would then be the next phase where the foundation was laid, which now concludes that entire cycle,” Sayed said In Islam, bodies are washed (ghusl) and shrouded (kafan) before burial Burial is ideally carried out within 24 hours and on the right side facing the Qibla (Mecca)
Cremation is prohibited, and embalming is discouraged
Fatah congratulated the Mowbray Cemetery Board on the development, saying it marks an important step for the Muslim community
“We absolutely congratulate the Mowbray Cemetery on the mortuary that has been established This will come as a great help to the Muslim community,” he said
“Where bodies had previously laid for very long in other mortuaries, we can now keep them here and notify families quickly
This collaboration between the MJC and the
Mowbray Cemetery is an excellent one that will benefit our community for many years to come ”
The facility is part of a broader vision for Mowbray Cemetery, which has been serving the Muslim community since the mid-1800s
Sayed said it differs from previous arrangements by offering a comprehensive service to the community
“It’s more in line with our vision and mission of the Mowbray Cemetery in particular It’s a calling to serve people in a dignified manner, ” he said
Construction is expected to be completed around April or May next year
The project includes both the building itself and technical installations such as refrigeration Key partners include the MJC and the Muslim Cemetery Board, with contributions from several anonymous donors
Sayed highlighted the importance of the mortuary for the Muslim community “We are a community that usually buries immediately or the next day
“With the community growing, there are pressures this means the community now has a facility of their own, which they’ve never had before It’s about creating dignity for those that have left us ”
Cape Town honours David Kramer and the late Taliep Petersen with Freedom of the City. PHOTO: JESSE KRAMER
SCBDMAP comment openuntil23 November
Capetonians have until Sunday 23 November to comment on the proposed Mobility and Access Plan for the Cape Town CBD (CBDMAP)
Approximately 17% of Cape Town’s formal sector jobs are located in its Central Business District (CBD) and attracts about 115 000 people during the morning peak period on weekdays
At the same time, the CBD is also host to residential opportunities, and a destination for entertainment and learning
The draft CBD Mobility and Access Plan (CBDMAP) takes into account all of these needs, and attempts to optimise mobility and access for current conditions; and for anticipated development into the future
The CBDMAP proposes a shift towards a multi-modal approach to maximise the functional capacity of the CBD for a growing number of residents and visitors, and to meet its economic development needs
. In April this year, the City’s Urban Mobility Directorate provided the public with the opportunity to comment on the first draft, and now the City is embarking on another round of public participation on the second draft that has been refined, taking into consideration the input that we have received during the first round
. The vision for the CBD is a safe, secure and inclusive movement network that is efficient and well-connected, providing sustainable, integrated and equitable access to opportunities for a prosperous and people-centred CBD
. The plan supports the need to accommodate the off-loading and collection of goods in enabling economic activity; and the City’s Parking Policy to address the staging of delivery bikes both on-street, and at enterprises Rob Quintas, Mayco member for urban mobility, said given the population growth projections, the CBDMAP seeks to optimise existing transport infrastructure to enable many more people to move around the CBD in a manner that is safe, dignified, convenient, and sustainable
The draft CBDMAP proposes street typologies with definite functions and modal priorities
. Mobility route: to allow efficient vehicular movement around the CBD for mixed traffic, such as the Foreshore Freeway, Buitengracht, and Christiaan Barnard Street
. Transit street: provides generous space for non-vehicular traffic, while allowing efficient movement of public transport where private vehicles are limited such as Darling and Adderley streets
. Activity street: supports social and economic uses, prioritises cycling and walking, mixed traffic at low speeds, limited parking such as Bree, Long, and Roeland Streets
. Shared street: provides local access for all modes, prioritises walking and cycling and mixed traffic such as Bloem and Longmarket Streets
. Walking and cycling street: High-quality public space with safe movement for pedestrians and cyclists such as St George’s Mall, sections of Waterkant Street and Old Marine Drive
The City intends to develop a parking plan for the CBD to facilitate a gradual transition from private vehicle dominance towards a more people-centred environment that encourages walking and cycling and the use of public transport services
The parking plan will elaborate on the provision of park-and-walk facilities on the periphery of the CBD to ensure the decongestion zone becomes a positive experience for moving and dwelling
The proposed Mobility and Access Plan is available on the City’s website at: www capetown gov za/haveyoursay
TO COMMENT:
. Go online www capetown gov za/haveyoursay
. Send an email to UrbanMobility CT@capetown.gov.za (Quote reference CBDMAP 2025)
. Submit written comments at local subcouncils and libraries
Irma Stern no longer atThe Firs
NAMHLAMONAKALI
The University of Cape Town (UCT) and the Irma Stern Trust have jointly agreed to end their long-standing partnership to manage and operate the Irma Stern Museum The decision will see the relocation of the Irma Stern Trust Collection from The Firs, Stern’s historic home and current museum site, to a secure archival facility.
For 56 years, the museum has served as a cherished cultural landmark, welcoming generations of students, scholars and international visitors
The site has also been used as a teaching resource for art learners and students, offering a rare hands-on experience with the work of one of South Africa’s most celebrated artists
The closure has raised concerns about the accessibility of South Africa’s cultural heritage and its impact on arts education
Curators and educators have questioned what this means for learners who relied on the museum for academic study and inspiration
UCT said the transition marks not an ending but a renewal of Stern’s legacy
“UCT is proud to have been a custodian of Irma Stern’s legacy for decades As this new chapter begins, we look forward to seeing her work reach new audiences in innovative and more impactful ways, ” said Prof Elelwani Ramugondo, UCT’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Transformation, Student Affairs and Social Responsiveness
According to Dianna Yach, chair of the Irma Stern Museum Committee, the move will ensure the continued preservation of the collection while allowing the Trust to explore new ways of engaging audiences
“This change opens new doors for audiences to encounter her art and be inspired by the passion and curiosity that defined her life’s work,” she said
The Trust will announce its future plans for the collection early next year, promising “exciting ways ” to engage broader South African and international audiences
When approached for further comment, UCT spokesperson Elijah Moholola said: “Kindly note that beyond the statements released, we are regrettably not in a position to comment further on the matter at this stage “UCT and the Irma Stern Trust will issue further updates, either jointly or separately, in due course ”
Guided by Stern’s will, which entrusted her home and collection “for the encouragement and promotion of Fine Arts within and outside
S co ed a suppo s e e oca
tion, provided the new facility offers the “ secure and environment-controlled” conditions required for conservation
“We believe it is the intention of the managers of this collection to improve access to the collection in the long run and when circumstances permit,” the agency said
The agency also pointed to international best practices, citing United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the International Council of Museums (ICOM) as examples of organisations that guide its conservation standards
Nationally, it aligns with principles endorsed by the South African Museum Association (SAMU)
Addressing the importance of The Firs, Stern’s
ClimbershonouredbyMayor
KEANANHARMSE
A couple from Ottery who conquered Mount Kilimanjaro, along with hiking companions, were honoured with a certificate of recognition by the Mayor of Cape Town, Geordin-Hill Lewis, on Friday 31 October
Stephanie and Vernon Singh said they first discovered their love of hiking and the mountains during Covid-19 lockdown
At the time they joined local hiking groups for their first real outdoor experiences
“We fell in love with the outdoors,” recalled Stephanie, “the waterfalls, the dams, the mountains, the peace We soon learned that for many hikers Kilimanjaro is the dream It is said if one can conquer Arangieskop in Robertson (‘the Kilimanjaro of the Cape’) then one is ready for the real deal ”
After three years of dreaming and intensive training that began with local Western Cape mountains, the pair decided to set their sights on tackling Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro in July this year
The couple are known on social media as “Vern&Stef aka voetjies”
Before they climbed Mount Kilimanjaro the pair spent months researching, preparing and honing their personal discipline Active planning and training began early last year, Stephanie added
INTENSIVETRAINING
Physical preparation included gym cardio sessions, hiking Western Cape's highest peaks every weekend including Matroosberg at 2 449 m, multi-day hikes with overnight moun-
tain stays, and long beach walks for endurance building to “finding consistency on days when life was busy and my body felt tired proved most challenging," Stephanie noted "Balancing work, teaching, dancing, and training required real discipline "
Mental preparation involved daily affirmations, prayer, visualisation exercises and learning to embrace discomfort while maintaining calm focus
The couple funded their expedition through personal savings with significant support from family, friends and local businesses who believed in their goal
The pair had their friends, Wendy Brockman, Helena Martin and Andre Kleinschmidt, at their side during the hike
STRATEGICROUTESELECTION
The couple chose the Machame Route for its gradual acclimatisation opportunities, the scenery and high summit success rate, prioritising safety
The eight-day timeline from base to summit and return allowed proper adjustment to altitude
Essential gear included high-quality sleeping bags, proper boots, layering systems, trekking poles, hydration equipment, headlamps, warm clothing and altitude medication
During their climb up Kilimanjaro some surprising snacks proved valuable: “50c Niknacks and wine gums, Vix menthol camphor,” Stephanie laughed, “along with a small journal, though at altitude you ' re too tired to read You just pray and push through ”
former home and the museum ’ s long-standing site, SAHRA noted that both the building and the collection hold “heritage significance” for Cape Town and South Africa
“The collection in context of The Firs invites an insight into the artist behind the artwork,” the agency said “While there is great educational benefit in keeping the site and collection together, the maintenance of the site can demand for a collection to be moved in order to address facilities challenges that, if ignored, can compromise the conservation of the collection ”
To ensure continued access for students, scholars and the public, SAHRA recommended
several measures, including enhanced use of digital platforms, controlled access for educational purposes, and collaborations with national galleries
“Promotion of alternative means of access such as digital platforms can go a long way during this transition,” the agency said, adding that the Irma Stern Collection is already accessible online through the Trust’s website
As the Irma Stern Trust prepares to announce its future plans for the collection early next year, SAHRA’s guidance highlights a broader national challenge: balancing the preservation of heritage
ALTITUDECHALLENGES
Altitude presented the climbers with their greatest concern
“You can train your legs but the mountain decides how your body reacts,” Stephanie said
The group experienced fatigue, headaches, nose bleeds, vomiting and doubt, but avoided major injuries
“Prayer, breathing, staying present, and remembering how far I had already come helped sustain my focus,” Stephanie said SUMMITACHIEVEMENT
On Friday 18 July, eight days later, standing
atop Africa's highest peak represented far more than physical accomplishment for the couple and their friends
“It meant conquering more than just a mountain It symbolised self-belief, faith, discipline and the power of never giving up even when it feels impossible,” Stephanie reflected
The group shed tears, said a prayer and shared a moment of stillness above the clouds Hill Lewis said: “Their 5 895m trek up Kilimanjaro was five times higher than Table Mountain! Congratulations to them and well done ”
The University of Cape Town (UCT) and the Irma Stern Trust have jointly agreed to end their long-standing partnership to manage and operate the Irma Stern Museum
The group made South Africa proud once they finally conquered Mount Kilimanjaro. Here they are standing on the summit
‘Switch-on’ is no less festive
The countdown has begun for Cape Town’s biggest free, family-friendly celebration On Sunday 30 November, the City of Cape Town’s Festive Lights Switch-On will light up the Grand Parade and Adderley Street with an evening of music, dance and togetherness all shining under this year’s inspiring theme, “United in Hope”
Headlining the celebration is DJ Zinhle, one of South Africa’s most influential DJs and producers, bringing her signature house and amapiano beats to the heart of the city
The line-up also features an incredible mix of home-grown talent, including GoodLuck, Kurt Darren, Tarryn Lamb, Karabo Mogane, Early B and Justin Vega, and crowd-favourite DJ Masoodah, ensuring there’s something for everyone
Hosts, Joe Barber and Carl Wastie will keep the energy flowing along with a special appearance by Bubblegum and Boera Jules
Also on the billing are the SVNS dancers, the spirited D6 Hanover Minstrel Group, and winners of the Dance Challenge and TikTok Family Dance competitions, who will light up the stage with high-energy moves and performances
Another highlight will the mayor ’ s official festive-jersey stage appearance, fast becoming a beloved Cape Town tradition! Each year the Mayor’s jersey captures the festive season feeling, and this year ’ s brand-new community-designed garment promises to be the most festive yet
Residents and visitors are encouraged to join in the spirit by dressing up in their brightest festive outfits to celebrate the start of summer, sunshine and togetherness
The City of Cape Town’s Festive Lights Switch-On will ignite the Grand Parade and Adderley Street on Sunday 30 November PHOTO SUPPLIED
LINE-UP INCLUDES INFLUENTIAL DJ’S, MINSTRELS,DANCE TROUPES AND SINGERS.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis says he is looking forward to one of the biggest celebrations
“We have a line-up of musicians that has something for everyone, together with dancers, minstrels, dance competitions and much more This event really is where Capetonians come together from right across the city and turn the Grand Parade and Adderley Street into one big celebration of lights, music, friendship and everything that makes Cape Town the best city in the world, perfectly captured in this year ’ s theme, ‘United in Hope’ ”
Aquariumpreparestorollout thefestiveseasoncarpet
The Two Oceans Aquarium turns 30 this month (November) and invites the public to join the celebrations
Starting on Thursday 13 November, a range of activities is on the cards
Ticket holders can take a selfie at the legacy photo wall with one of the Aquarium mascots and can also get a limited edition 30th birthday coffee at the I&J Ocean Exhibit Snack Stop, and stand a chance to win a penguin plushie during the penguin feed
There is also an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Aquarium divers at work as they mark the birthday with a banner dive during the I&J Ocean Exhibit feeding time
WATCHAPUPPETSHOW
With school holidays looming large in the horizon, the Children’s Play Centre has daily puppet shows at 10:30, 13:30 and 15:30 With a charismatic cast of characters, like Sally the Seal and Exo the Crab, these puppet shows are educational and fun
The little ones can also enjoy a variety of ocean-themed arts and crafts, as well as a fun,
birthday-inspired activity sheet
Feeding time fun
Patrons can join their favourite animals at daily feeding times!
. Save Our Seas Foundation Shark Exhibit: Saturdays at midday
. I&J Ocean Exhibit: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at noon
. Kelp Forest Exhibit: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 12:00
. Penguin Exhibit: Every day at 11:30 and 14:30
TRASHBASHBEACHCLEANUP
Thursday's fun will be followed by a Trash Bash at Lagoon Beach on Saturday 15 November The Two Oceans Aquarium is teaming up with Save A Fishie for a 30th birthday Trash Bash
“Not only is Trash Bash a way to make a positive impact on our ocean, but it is also an opportunity to get out into nature and breathe some fresh air with your loved ones, ” said Phumza Jongihlathi, Community Relationship Coordinator at the Two Oceans Aquarium
Thestarsoftheirkennelsget achancetoshowtheirstu
Dog lovers had the golden opportunity to showcase their pets’ agility and skills during the Kusa Classic Dog Sport weekend from Friday 31 October to Sunday 2 November at the Theo Marais Sports Ground in Milnerton The gath-
ering featured the Dogsport Nationals, championship shows, and an Agility FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) Show
The event was organised by the Kennel Union of Southern Africa (Kusa)
Image owned by Jenna Harris of Bergvliet in action for Team Cape Furr Fly in the flyball
PHOTOS: CARINA ROUX
The Kusa Classic dog sport weekend took place at the Theo Marais Sports Ground The event featured the Dogsport Nationals, championship shows and an Agility FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) Show Pictured is Prinz owned by Debbie Maltby from Hout Bay
but Ruben owned by Monika Mohr from Pretoria
