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 re-
mains 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 “Even with announcements, poor
NAVIGATING PUBLIC SPACES REMAINS A STRUGGLE FOR THE BLIND
infrastructure or delays leave us vulnerable People often assume blindness equals helplessness In reality, independence is possible, but society’s attitudes, public infra-
structure, 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
Champions on display
Schizo-support body to gather
MasqueTheatreserves uporiginalrecipe
The Masque Theatre is bringing festive magic to Cape Town families with its annual year-end production, The Princess and The Pea, running from Friday 12 December to Sunday 11 January with a fresh South African twist on the classic fairytale
This year ’ s production aims to teach audiences that the recipe for a true hero includes: a pinch of bravery, a dash of honour, a swig of dry humour and a teaspoon of something special The theatre is located in the Muizenberg and is a registered non-profit organisation (NPO) It was established in 1959 by local attorney Bertie Stern It’s a space for amateur enthusiasts and seasoned professionals to practise their craft and sharpen their acting chops The theatre established a youth club to help young people aged between eight to 18, to learn theatre skills, build confidence, ignite creativity and encourage self-expression
Show producer and Masque Programme Manager Faeron Wheeler emphasised the production’s distinctly South African musical identity,
featuring songs from local artists alongside international favourites
“For this year ’ s fairytale, we ’ re adding plenty of local flavour with music from Freshlyground, Jesse and Johnny Clegg and Shekhinah,” Wheeler explained
The production follows Princess Anika as she learns the true meaning of just leadership, while young Eli discovers how to stand up for himself and Stefan realizes he’s more than just his appearance
The chef character Pepper serves as a catalyst who “is going to teach everyone how to rip up the recipe of life”, bringing both humour and wisdom to the fairytale narrative
Writer and director Savannah Steyn described her vision: “I wanted to cook up a hearty story that’s sweet, a little nutty, and full of flavour for the whole family ”
Tickets are valued at R160 for adults, pensioners: R130, under 18s: R130 and a family discount for four tickets for R500 (R125 each) .Bookings can be made through Quicket.
Learners combine technology and art
Township learners across the Western Cape are turning mathematical concepts into stunning textile designs through an innovative programme that combines technology and creativity
The project, led by Dr Sinobia Kenny, Academic Director at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) in Muizenberg, has introduced learners from Lavender Hill High, Crestway High, Intlanganiso Secondary and Masibambani Secondary to the world of algorithmic thinking through specialised sewing machines
AIMS was established in 2003 and offers postgraduate training, research and public-engagement programmes aimed at building scientific capacity across Africa
The African Institute for Mathematical Sciences Schools Enrichment Centre (AIMSSEC), celebrated the learners’ achievements on Friday 17 October bringing learners, parents, teachers and school principals together Kenny was born into a family rooted in education and perseverance “I was raised in Lotus River, so raising our youth is incredibly important to me; I understand the context My mother came from a family of teachers and joined the profession herself after leaving school in Standard 8 (Grade 10) during a time of teacher shortages My father, the eldest of many siblings, left school early to support his family I am the elder of two daughters ”
TECHNOLOGYMEETSCREATIVITY
Through AIMSSEC girls learn to construct algorithms step-by-step rules for solving problems which they then translate into instructions for computerised sewing machines The process transforms abstract mathematical thinking into tangible, creative output as learners design intricate patterns and watch their algorithms come to life through fabric
WE SEE YOU,WE VALUE YOU,AND YOUR POTENTIAL IS LIMITLESS
and thread “Learners are turning maths and technology into something tangible, not with a needle and thread but through their thinking and creativity to instruct sewing machines to stitch their incredible designs ”
UNIVERSITYEXPERIENCE
The programme expanded in July this year when 10 high school boys experienced higher education firsthand on a visit to the University of the Western Cape (UWC) They attended lectures, assisted in teaching activities, and stayed in learner hostels
For many learners, the experience provided their first glimpse of
potential futures in higher education, creating lasting motivation for academic achievement The exposure to university life proved transformative, with participants expressing renewed enthusiasm for pursuing post-secondary education opportunities
“For the learners it was a powerful reminder,” Kenny noted, “ we see you, we value you, and your potential is limitless For the parents, carers and teachers it was a moment of pride and celebration She emphasised that the initiative proves “opportunities can start anywhere even in township schools and with the proper support, learners can stitch together a future full of possibilities ” Lavender Hill High School Grade 10 learner Keenan Lekas said: “When I first stepped in at AIMS, I knew I was arriving at an intellectual and challenging environment I could not have imagined just how much I would grow, both as a learner and as an individual "
Unveiling of Crestway High School
de Freitas and Lola Afolayan
The learners celebrating their success PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Clarenda van der Walt PHOTOS NICHOLAS HERRMANN
Richard Thomas, Ruth-Anne Lake and Geoffrey Muller
‘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 THE 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
He may have been the smallest dog in action in the flyball but Ruben owned by Monika Mohr from Pretoria was a crowd favourite.
ssisted in coaching the Ghana 7s team, ahead the All Africa games
“I know what it feels like to come from humble eginnings, to almost lose everything, and then find hope again through rugby, loyal friends nd faith This tournament was about giving oung people that same hope, showing them hat no matter where you come from, your talnt can take you to incredible places if you work ard, surround yourselves with positive people nd keep the faith ”
To Senatla 7s mirrors his journey into rofessionalism
“It seems as if my name is ynonymous with 7s rugby, people are always uestioning when I’ll head back I’m known on he 7s circuit as ‘Jet Shoes’, ‘See You Later’ and Hot Stepper’ Why I opted for a 7s tournament that I think 7s is the best rugby developing rmat because of its ‘1versus1’ factor It sharpns you up properly ” Ingram said the Connect Academy was foundd to unlock opportunities for marginalised outh and Senatla embodied the Academy’s sion of resilience and excellence
“Senatla is not only a world-class athlete, but so a world-class mentor,” he pointed out “His omeback story shows our young players that etbacks can be overcome with discipline and etermination The tournament is a celebration that spirit and of the community that makes ugby such a powerful tool for change ”
The results:
