Switch-On 30 November
Cape Town will once again light up the summer sky as thousands gather on the Grand Parade and along Adderley Street for the 56th edition of the Festive Lights
Switch-On on Sunday 30 November
This free, family-friendly celebration takes place this year under the theme “United in Hope”
More than just a seasonal celebration, the Festive Lights Switch-On has grown into one of Cape Town’s most beloved tradi-
tions and a symbol of Cape Town’s resilience, creativity, and community spirit
Building on the success of recent hope-themed editions, this year ’ s event recognises hope not simply as an emotion, but as a unifying value that connects us all
This year ’ s campaign and main event will feature not only a line-up of entertainers and the much-anticipated light switch moment, but also two community-driven initiatives:
The FLSO “Move and Melody” Competition: a cross-discipline
dance and vocal showcase that will see emerging local talent compete for a chance to perform live on the Festive Lights stage in front of thousands – this goes live on Wednesday 1 October Capetonians are advised to keep an eye on the news about the latest events
Wear the Hope - Share the Light: a new creative project inviting Capetonians of all ages to design and
create a festive top for the mayor
The Festive Lights Switch-On offers something rare and vital in this digital-driven world – the chance to connect face to face, to dance, to laugh, with one another and to celebrate Cape Town’s unique culture
The concert programme builds up to the switch-on moment of the festive lights, a lighting display of lasers, lights and pyrotechnics
Followed by a highlight of a colourful video mapping display on the façade of the City Hall, a oncein-a-lifetime experience
Temporarylibraryclosurestobetterservices
Several City libraries are temporarily closed, or planning to close soon, for maintenance and stocktaking
Patrons are advised to use neighbouring libraries in the interim or the City’s new digital services
Four libraries in People’s Post distribution areas are affected by the current schedule of works
These include: Colin Eglin Library (Sea Point) which is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday 30 September
Kloof Street due to reopen on Monday 6 October
Lotus River scheduled to reopen
Saturday 8 November
Rondebosch will close Monday 27 and reopen Friday 31 October
The closures range from a few days to one to two months, depending on the nature of the work that is being done at the respective facilities
Francine Higham, Mayco member for community services and health, said stocktaking is essential as it ensures accurate inventory records, optimises storage space and helps them provide the items their patrons want
“These closures will only be for three to four days and thee librar-
ies will communicate directly with patrons in the lead up to the break in service, and which alternative facilities they can access during the period
“The time allocated in these instances is significantly longer, so we appeal to patrons to please bear with us while this critical proactive work takes place ” Maintenance includes the replacement of carpets, work on wooden floor and more
The electrical maintenance will entail the rewiring of the entire library, ensuring that all electrical work meets compliance require-
ments
Patrons can return library books to their nearest library
Alternatively, registered library members are asked to access the digital offerings by visiting e-resources (capetown gov za) eBooks and audio books are available to access or download via the Overdrive Digital Platform or the Libby App on smart devices Access to more than 7 000 local and international newspapers and magazines is available to download via the PressReader platform OR app . Access the online catalogue at opac.capetown.gov.za
Scoopofcomfortonatoughdaygoesfar
wouldn’t go as planned “Yes, sure, ” I replied, and carried on with my day
Sometimes all we need is ice cream to make a bad day a bit
sweeter I am an aunt to two lively little boys.
The eldest is in Grade R, and the youngest (with his old-soul mannerisms) is off to crèche next year
If it were up to me, I would send the youngest straight to high school, but it’s not legally allowed I recently had a busy day driving from one area to the next conducting interviews etc Next minute
my phone vibrates, I check and see it’s a text message from my sister checking whether I would have a gap to go and get my nephew from school
I took a deep breath, knowing it was one of those days that just
I had to shift into lightning speed, knowing his school day ended at 15:00 and I still had a fair distance to drive to get there
I stopped outside the school at 15:05 chuffed with myself because at least I made it in time
Being a Virgo, I naturally run on checklists (there’s nothing more satisfying than ticking boxes) The plan was simple: pick him up from school, then rush home to make it in time for a scheduled telephone interview
I got inside and asked one of the teachers to call him He took about ten minutes and then came out teary-eyed
Now, as an aunt (a little obsessed with her nephews), I was instantly on high alert ready to confront whoever made my boy cry I decided to pause first and asked
him what the problem was
He apparently had a verbal fight with one of his classmates and got so upset that he started crying
I asked to speak to his teacher, because he had come home complaining about this classmate before
The teacher intervened and the two boys apologised to each other
I asked him whether he was satisfied with how the matter was handled and he nodded, still seemingly upset, but ready to let the issue go
Keep in mind, in the back of my mind, I was still running through the list of tasks I had planned for after the school run
But in that moment, I was reminded of the importance of slowing down, taking a breath, and accepting that it’s okay to veer off the checklist sometimes
We got to the car, and I asked him whether he would like some
ice cream
His face lit up and immediately he started blabbing about how ice is his “favourite food” (any kind of luxury is his favourite actually)
We went to the shop, then sat in the car to enjoy it
And just there in that moment, we bonded over ice cream Neither of us had a good day, but somehow, between shared silences and melting scoops, it felt like things might be okay
We’ve reached the last quarter of the year The list of tasks seems to be piling up as we approach the final stretch, and it can feel overwhelming, but this is also the moment that counts the most
If you needed a reminder here it is: You've got what it takes take a deep breath, refocus, and power through The best chapters are often written at the end And if it all feels like too much, just have an ice cream
KAYLYNNE BANTOM
Trust, empathy, reconciliation
NAMHLAMONAKALI
Behind the walls of South Africa’s prisons, an unlikely friendship blossomed between Nelson Mandela and the prison officer assigned to guard him
This extraordinary story of trust, empathy, and reconciliation will come to life at St Thomas Church in Rondebosch on Sunday 28 September as part of the church’s 160th anniversary celebratory events
Mandela, imprisoned for his fight against apartheid, and Christo Brand, a young officer assigned to Robben Island and later Pollsmoor Prison, could have been worlds apart Yet, in an environment defined by strict rules and political tension, the two men forged a bond that has become a symbol of healing in a country scarred by decades of racial division Their story shows that even in the harshest circumstances, empathy and human connection can endure
“Christo Brand’s story is extraordinary,” says Lucia Earl, a representative of St Thomas church “It’s a reminder that even in the darkest moments, acts of kindness and understanding can shine through His experiences with Mandela continue to inspire everyone in our community and beyond ”
The talk promises an evening of insight, reflection, and inspiration You will hear how bonds formed in adversity can transcend the confines of a prison cell, influencing both individuals and the nation itself For South Africans still navigating the complex legacy of apartheid, the story of Mandela and Brand offers a powerful lesson: reconciliation is possible, even when it seems improbable
In addition to sharing his experiences, Brand will be signing and selling his books at the event, giving those present the opportunity to take home a tangible piece of this remarkable story
The event is open to all and tickets are priced at R60, which includes refreshments following
ST THOMAS CHURCH INVITES THE COMMUNITY TO EXPERIENCE THIS LIVING HISTORY, TO REFLECT ON A STORY OF COURAGE,FORGIVENESS,AND FRIENDSHIP
the talk Books can be purchased at the Parish Office via EFT, Snapscan, or cash, or at the door on the evening of the event St Thomas church invites the community to experience this living history, to reflect on a story of courage, forgiveness, and friendship, and to witness how two men, from very different worlds, left an enduring legacy of empathy and humanity It is an evening that promises to leave a lasting impression on all who attend, celebrating the power of connection and the human spirit
From prison walls to bridges of hope discover the powerful story of Mandela and his unlikely friend PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Christo Brand guarded Mandela on Robben Island and moved with him to Pollsmoor Prison in Cape Town PHOTO: RODGER BOSCH/AFP/GETTY IMAGES)
Spring splendour shows blooms
NAMHLA MONAKALI
NAMHLA MONAKALI@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
Cape Town’s orchid enthusiasts have a chance to immerse themselves in a world of colour and fragrance at the Cape Orchid Society’s Spring Splendour Orchid Show.
The two-day event takes place on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 October at the 6th Rondebosch Scout Group Hall and is free to attend
The show will feature orchids from society members and private growers, highlighting both common and rare species
Visitors can also consult with growers and vendors about orchid care and purchase plants and supplies to start or expand their collections
“This show gives people a chance to see a wide range of orchids, some of which are hard to find elsewhere,” says Barry Deutschmann, vice president of the Cape Orchid Society “It’s also an opportunity to raise awareness about the conservation of native orchids ”
The Cape Floral Kingdom, one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots, is home to 241 native orchid species, but many are now at risk Habitat loss, invasive plants, and other pressures have placed 70 of these species on the threatened list The society works on propagation and reintroduction projects to protect these plants and ensure they continue to thrive in their natural habitats
“We hope visitors leave not just admiring the orchids, but also understanding the challenges they face,” Deutschmann adds “Conservation is an important part of what we do, and the show is a chance to share that work with the public ” In addition to the displays, the show features a raffle giving visitors a chance to win a collection of orchids for just R20 per ticket The venue is wheelchair accessible and vendors will be on hand selling orchids, companion plants, and supplies, as well as offering advice for keeping plants healthy at home
alike . For details contact capeorchidsoc@gmail com
ORCHIDS,COMPANION PLANTS,AND SUPPLIES
The City of Cape Town is strengthening its service delivery capabilities with a R208 million investment in vehicles and specialised equipment for the 2025-'26 financial year The upgrades are designed to equip line departments with the tools they need to meet the growing demands of communities across Cape Town Theresa Uys, Mayco member for corporate services, said the initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure the City operates efficiently and professionally
“The City’s investment in its Fleet Replacement Programme not only enhances safety across Cape Town but also guarantees a dependable, secure, and readily available fleet for all departments serving the community,” said Uys
Of the total budget, R133 m has been dedicated to replacing critical vehicles, R30 m to plant equipment, and R45 m to specialised equipment
Around R60 m of the R133m has been ringfenced for the Safety and Security directorate, with the remaining funds supporting community services, parks and recreation, urban mobility, and other essential City operations
The Fleet Management Department also pro-
cures vehicles for key projects
Recently, over 200 vehicles were acquired for the Metro Police, enabling new officers to be deployed across communities, including Ndabeni These vehicles, ranging from patrol sedans and light delivery vehicles to specialised fire trucks and aerial platforms, arrive at a crucial time to bolster the City’s capacity to serve residents effectively
This means faster response times from the Metro Police and improved operational support for community services
The upgrades are expected to directly impact safety, maintenance, and day-to-day City operations in the area
“The new fleet will allow departments to respond more quickly to emergencies and service requests, ensuring residents see real improvements on the ground,” said Uys
The City stresses that the programme is not only about replacing ageing vehicles but also about ensuring that every department has access to reliable and safe tools to carry out their work With the first vehicles already arriving, communities across Cape Town, including Ndabeni, can expect to notice the difference in service delivery in the coming months
Researchers to empower patients
AVRIL FILLIES
The Children’s Heart Disease Research Unit (CHDRU) at the University of Cape Town (UCT) in collaboration with the cardiology department at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital in Rondebosch is planning fun-filled events to empower children and families with knowledge about heart health
On Monday 29 September, a light Zumba/exercise session will be held for patients who are able to participate, while those unable to join will take part in a painting activity
Parents will receive educational leaflets, and apples will be distributed to everyone on the day
On Thursday 2 October patients and parents in the Outpatient Clinic will receive apples and leaflets
about congenital heart disease
“Parents will also attend a short talk on heart disease, be screened for hypertension and have one-one-one discussions with clinicians about their child’s diagnosis
“Children will enjoy a colouring-in station and take home an activity sheet ” says Laylah Ryklief a researcher at CHDRU
On Friday 3 October, the annual Red Cross Children’s Hospital relay race, a fun Zumba session with hospital staff will form part of the annual relay race, highlighting the importance of movement and teamwork
“We aim to empower all with knowledge about heart health, Ryklief says
TAlzheimer’s is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder
PHOTO: PEXELS
Alzheimer’s:Beyourown brainhealthactivist
Alzheimer’s may still hold many mysteries, but one thing is clear: taking a proactive approach to memory care can significantly reduce your risk of developing this disease the most common form of dementia, accounting for 70% of all cases
Dr Ryan Fuller, a psychiatrist specialising in geriatric mental health and practising at the Memory Care units at Netcare Akeso, emphasises that committing to healthy ageing and addressing concerns early on are key to lowering the risk of Alzheimer ’ s disease
SUPPORTINGMENTALHEALTH
Fuller explains that Alzheimer’s is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder involving a naturally occurring protein, amyloid, that builds up and affects brain function
It has multiple effects on mental and physical health and can be characterised as the disease of the A’s – amnesia (memory loss), aphasia (difficulty with words), apraxia (loss of coordinated movement) and abulia (diminished motivation)
COPINGWITHTHEREALITY
According to Fuller, many conditions can present with impaired memory function and assessing for Alzheimer’s requires a medically trained doctor
“Once a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment begins immediately and may include medication such as cognitive enhancers and mood stabilisers, as well as suggested lifestyle changes to support health as the disease progresses
“Ask about the pros and cons of experimental therapies, which can have side effects, and always consult your doctor before including any herbal supplements in your regimen ”
Fuller recommends a complete, multidisciplinary approach to care planning and management, which also includes a clinical psychologist to help transition to this new reality and a social worker to provide a professional, unbiased perspective on protecting the best interests of the person
“An Alzheimer’s diagnosis is a life-changing event and there is no way to sugar coat it, but with the right blend of support and a proactive approach, individuals can empower themselves, stay connected and continue to experience joy,” Fuller cautions
CARINGFORTHECARERS
Fuller points out that the needs of primary caregivers and loved ones can be overlooked, but support is equally crucial for those who are putting in the daily energy to care for someone with Alzheimer’s “Caregiver burnout is real, and it is vital that primary caregivers have
sufficient time to recharge their own batteries, physically and mentally
If a professional caregiver is forming part of the mix, it is advisable to ensure that they are a good match in terms of personality type and cultural background ”
The doctor says sharing meaningful family details, preferences, and dreams or achievements between caregiver and patient can help to establish common ground and highlight the human in one another
He said caregivers can also find further resources and support communities online – the Alzheimer’s Association of South Africa, and Dementia SA
TAKEACTIONEARLYON
While it is normal to experience moments of forgetfulness from time to time, Fuller encourages a proactive approach rather than passive acceptance of memory decline for longterm healthy brain function
“Memory problems can arise from many different causes Mild cognitive impairment that is persistent, pervasive and not accounted for by a medical condition often precedes Alzheimer’s
“This may include being forgetful, missing appointments, losing train of thought, trouble finding the right word, poor judgement, depression, anxiety, irritability and other symptoms
“However, with early treatment, mild cognitive impairment can be reversed ”
He said stress brought on by retirement is another common problem, particularly among men, which can have devastating effects on brain health
Fuller emphasises that in addition to seeking care early on, it is never too late to start making lifestyle decisions that support healthy ageing and brain function:
. Stress management – exercise, breathing techniques and journaling can be effective;
. Heart-healthy diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, pulses and lean protein;
. Physical activity – a daily 20-minute walk and regular social sports;
. Sleep hygiene – ensuring that your routine and environment support sufficient quality sleep;
. Social activity – reach out to friends and family, join community initiatives, stay connected;
. A sense of purpose – daily practices that bring you joy, regular expressions of kindness
“The key to addressing dementia concerns is to practise healthy habits, ask questions and take action by seeking professional help
“It’s never too late, but sooner is always better,” concludes Fuller
