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
CriminalsinSAnolongerhide,theyactboldly
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
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-
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
Assessingtollofviolenceonyouth
KEANANHARMSE
More than 40 learners across Grassy Park gathered for a meeting at Fairview Primary School on Saturday 1 November to discuss how bullying and gangsterism affected the local youth
The Youth Service and Awareness Talk was organised by the Grassy Park Community Policing Forum (GPCPF)
Community leaders, police officers and social media personalities joined forces to deliver messages of hope and empowerment to learners facing multiple daily pressures
“Our young people need support, guidance and encouragement, now more than ever, ” said GPCPF chair Nicole Jacobus “As we enter the final exam period many learners are silently struggling Our message to them is simple: you are not alone There is help and there are people who care and are ready to listen ”
School to honour ‘Ma, Pa’
KEANANHARMSE
Perivale Primary School will honour the important role grandparents play in the life of the community through a special celebration at their school on Friday 15 November
The event will be the Lotus River school’s first Grandparents Day which will take place from 10:00 to 12:00 and will commemorate the “kings and queens ” who serve as pillars of strength in many local families
This year the Grade 7 learners will highlight the theme of “Gratitude” and will feature songs, dance and poetry in the school hall
“The celebration recognises grandparents’ vital role as caregivers,” said school spokesperson Nicolene Langner, “particularly in households where they provide stability and guidance when parents are absent, stepping far beyond traditional grandparent roles ”
School organisers emphasised grandparents’ profound impact on family structures and child development within the community
“Grandparents hold a very special place in every family,” Langner noted “They are the root of wisdom, love and strength, guiding and supporting generations with patience and care
PERIVALE LEARNERS WISH TO PAY TRIBUTE TO THE CRUCIAL ROLE GRANDPARENTS PLAY.
In many of our learners’ lives grandparents play an even greater role, often stepping in as caregivers and providing stability when parents are absent ”
The event’s timing coincides with Grade 7 learners’ preparation for high-school transition, making the celebration particularly meaningful as students prepare for their next educational chapter
“As our Grade 7 learners prepare to move on to high school, we know that their grandparents will remain the anchors in their lives, offering guidance, encouragement and love every step of the way
“We extend a warm invitation to local businesses or individuals in and around our community who would like to donate treats or refreshments towards this special day ”
For more information contact Nicolene Langner at 072 435 4477
Roadworks:expectclosures
The City of Cape Town is currently doing roadworks in Plantation Road, Ottery, between Wetton and Ferness roads, so road users can expect lane closures
Current time-frame estimates put completion of the resurfacing at Friday 27 November, weather conditions permitting
The work takes place from 09:00 to 15:30, Sunday to Friday Night work is scheduled from 20:00 to 04:30
The work also involves the relaying of kerbs and channels, removal and reinstatement of plastic bollards and repairing the south-bound lane between Bamboesvlei and Furness roads
Once completed, new road markings will be applied to improve road safety and visibility
Rob Quintas, Mayco member for urban mobility, expressed his gratitude to residents and road users
“Thank you to all the residents, road users and business owners in Ottery for their patience and cooperation in the course of these roadworks
The City’s road-infrastructure management team is working hard to keep Cape Town moving on good-quality roads
“To facilitate the work partial lane closures may be in place Motorists are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and use alternative routes where possible to minimise delays ”
Quintas said he was pleased to see a few local residents, who are registered on the job seekers’
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“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
database, working on the project
“I encourage unemployed residents to visit their local Sub-council offices to register on the City’s jobseeker database as well ”
“You can train your legs but the mountain decides how your body reacts,” Stephanie said
The group experienced fatigue, headaches, nosebleeds, 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 ”
Wetton
Perivale Primary School bid farewell to their former Head of Department (HOD) Nicky du Plooy on Tuesday 1 April PHOTO: KEANAN HARMSE
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
‘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
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’ ”
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-
The City of Cape Town’s Festive Lights Switch-On
ering featured the Dogsport Nationals, champi-
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
