People’s Post | Woodstock | Maitland | City | E-Edition 23 September 2025
Every day in South Africa at least 15 women are murdered and 117 women report rape cases to the police
This according to Women for Change SA, a non-profit organisation advocating for the constitutional rights of women and children in the country
This underscores the critical role organisations such as Rape Crisis plays in communities today
The Observatory-based organisation has been providing services to survivors of rape and sexual violence for the past 49 years, with offices also based in Athlone and Khayelitsha Jameelah Ismail, Rape Crisis fundraising officer, said their services include education and awareness programmes through community-based workshops and mobilisation
Also, legal advocacy by lobbying for legislative change and adequate survivor support services with the organisation’s Rape Survivors’ Justice Campaign (RSJC)
Ismail said such support is divided into three main programmes
“The Road to Recovery focuses on survivors and their healing journey through our counselling services
Making Change includes education on consent, rape culture and the myths and stereotypes about rape as well as advocacy and RSJC
“Road to Justice strives for better support services for survivors of rape, before engaging with the criminal-justice system and throughout the experience ”
But for Rape Crisis to sustain itself it requires ongoing donor support
It is for this reason that the organisation has been the key beneficiary for the Grand Exhibition Burlesque Benefit
This annual event, organised by The Rouge Revue, has cemented its place as one of Cape Town’s most unique fundraisers, showcasing the power of art, activism and entertainment
It takes place this coming Saturday, 27 September, at The Star Theatre, District Six Homecoming Centre
Tenille Lindeque, founder of the Burlesque Benefit, said this year marked the exhibition’s 10th anniversary
“Over the past 10 years we have raised R255 000 for Rape Crisis It is a showcase featuring some of Cape Town’s top burlesque dancers ” Lindeque explained why Rape Crisis is the beneficiary
“They work with survivors who have to find autonomy over their bodies again, regain body confidence and burlesque is a tool to do all of those things
“Burlesque is about women standing up and taking up space, express-
us ee appy a d co o ab e a d we feel it aligns well with supporting survivors of sexual violence ”
Lindeque said people can look forward to a burlesque-inspired market and performances
A gender-based violence survivor, who wished to remain anonymous, said in a press statement: “As a victim and survivor of GBV I want to support this cause by performing at The Grand Exhibition My attire, my body and my personality are mine alone No means no My body, my rules ”
Ismail said while progress has been made in the fight against sexual crimes Women for Change SA’s work is far from over
“We are only able to keep growing and expanding our reach with the help of our supporters We are opening a satellite office in Bellville due to the growing need in that community
We are so incredibly grateful Burlesque Benefit for their support over the years ” She appealed to more people and
ca ed o su o s to see e p “Through minimising secondary victimisation and improving conviction rates, we encourage more women and men to report rape Our offices in and Observatory reflect the diverse demographics of the clients and communities we serve ” .To support the organisation visit https://rapecrisis.org.za
One of the burlesque performers on stage.
PHOTO: MICHAEL BROOKS
The Aweh Cultural Showcase, founded by Alex Cupido of Bruinchild Media, aims to challenge negative stereotypes about coloured people by highlighting their rich heritage, culture, and artistic talent The event was held at the &A Waterfront on Saturday 20 September and featured performances from singers, rappers, and dancers from across the Cape Flats. Pictured is the Swag Step dance group from Mitchells Plain Read more on page 4
ary library to better services
LOSURES RANGE FROM A FEW DAYS O MONTHS,DEPENDING ON WORK
sch will close Monday 27 Friday 31 October res range from a few to two months, dethe nature of the work g done at the respective
Higham, Mayco memmmunity services and d stocktaking is essential s accurate inventory timises storage space hem provide the items ns want osures will only be for
three to four days and thee libraries 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
0November
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
Wear the Hope - Share the Light: a new creative project inviting Capetonians of all ages to
entail the rewiring of the entire library, ensuring that all electrical work meets compliance requirements
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
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 Followed by a highlight of a colourful video mapping display on the façade of the City Hall, a once-in-a-lifetime experience
Scoopofcomfortona toughdaygoesfar
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
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 wouldn’t go as planned
“Yes, sure, ” I replied, and carried on with my day
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 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
A JOURNO’S VOICE
KAYLYNNE BANTOM
The Festive Lights Switch-On event will take place on Sunday 30 November. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
A community effort for positive change
PHOTOS KAYLYNNE BANTOM BANTOM
Muneeb Hendricks, Camps Bay CID manager showing Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews some of the CID’s green projects
Aweh unites, educates, empowers
KAYLYNNEBANTOM
In celebration of Heritage Month, the Aweh Cultural Showcase aims to debunk the negative stereotypes that surround coloured people, and to put the spotlight on heritage and culture
The cultural art event, now in its second year, took place at V&A Waterfront on Saturday 20 September Patrons were treated performances by singers, rappers, dancers from across the Cape Flats
The project was founded by Alex Cupido, founder of non-profit company (NPC) Bruinchild Media
The NPC aims to assist aspiring music artists through workshops, music events and community projects
“The Aweh Cultural Showcase was created to challenge negative stereotypes that surround coloured people Stereotypes like coloured people are gangsters, drug addicts and murderers are the most common
“The cultural showcase was created to educate the world about the coloured community,”
CREATED TO CHALLENGE NEGATIVE STEREOTYPES THAT SURROUND COLOURED PEOPLE
explained Cupido “I am happy There was a variety of acts It was a blessed day ”
Cupido also shared a message for Heritage Day commemorated tomorrow ( 24 September)
“Embrace your heritage and your culture Research your heritage and your culture Be proud to be a coloured and know that you are valued and have a place in the world ”
Shukr Hartzenberg, social media content creator and Master of ceremonies on the day, said it was his first time attending the event
“I am humbled to be a part of the show The show highlights success stories and how people on the Cape Flats are utilising every opportunity to develop themselves and get together to celebrate uniqueness ”
Cupido explained that the show explores culture making Heritage Month the perfect time to celebrate their cultures
“We showcase our heritage and culture The history of our Khoi & San is illustrated through live performances in the hope to foster understanding and unity within our communities ”
According to Cupido, the show is more than performance, it’s about identity
“The key message that I want patrons to take away is understanding where coloured people come from till where we are now I want them to witness the great talent and heritage that exist in our community and we are going to share who we are as a people ”
He said the show aims to bring people together “I was so proud looking into the massive audience and seeing how people enjoyed themselves
“Some people shouted out with pride "Daais onse mense " while others danced and smiled It was amazing ”
Swag Step dance group from Mitchells Plain
Event organiser Alex Cupido
New facility offers noble care
The Oncology Department at Groote Schuur Hospital (GSH) has officially opened a newly-upgraded outpatient chemotherapy room and modernised pharmacy facilities bringing much needed relief for over 3 000 new patients who walk through the doors annually.
The R5,2 million project will ease overcrowding, improve patient comfort, and ensure that life-saving chemotherapy medications are safely and efficiently administered
The project was made possible through the generosity of donors, including a R1 million contribution from Wheel2Heal, as well as significant support from the Radiation Oncology Facilities Board Fund, the Groote Schuur Trust, government departments, hospital management, staff contributions, and civil society partners
The new facility represents a shared commitment to ensuring that patients receive dignified, compassionate, and high-quality care when they need it most
Mireille Wenger, Western Cape Minister of Health and Wellness, said this project is a shining example of what can be achieved when government, civil society, donors, and healthcare professionals work together to offer patients hope “I am deeply grateful to every partner who has contributed to making this dream a reality Together, we have not just built a room we have created a space of care, comfort, and compassion that will serve thousands of patients for years to come ”
For patients like Duane Minder, the impact of this project is personal
Minder said: “The doctors, nurses, and therapists here gave me my life back I am so grateful for their care and for this new chemotherapy room, which will make the journey a little easier for every patient who comes here It shows us that we are not alone, and that people care about what we are going through ” Reflecting on his experience, Minder added: “From day one, the team at Groote Schuur motivated me when I felt like giving up At my age you still want to move, to live, to do things for yourself They made me believe it was possible This new chemotherapy unit brings space, fresh air, and dignity for patients like me It makes the journey a little easier ”
Dr Shaheem de Vries, CEO of Groote Schuur Hospital, said they are grateful to every donor, funder, and partner who made this project possible
At just 36 years old Minder thought his persistent back pain was nothing more than a strained muscle
For more than two years, he lived with the discomfort, often being told it was “just muscular”
One day, after dropping his keys and jumping a gate to retrieve them, Minder collapsed unable to stand
or feel his legs What seemed like a freak accident revealed something far more serious: he was diagnosed with stage four lymphoma, with a tumour pressing against his spine and causing spinal cord compression Minder was rushed into emergency care at Groote Schuur Hospital He received urgent radiotherapy and was started on chemotherapy almost immediately With the care of doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists, he slowly regained movement in his legs Today, thanks to ongoing chemo and physiotherapy support even home visits from his local physio team Minder is walking again, step by step,
and looking forward with hope
Speaking at the opening ceremony,
“Their generosity ensures that we can provide safe, dignified, and high-quality care to patients who need it most These contributions open doors of hope and possibility for thousands of families across the Western Cape Together; we are enhancing access to healthcare ”
IMPORTANT NOTICE
FORM 3A - NOTICE OF APPLICATIONS FOR LIQUOR LICENCES IN TERMS OF SECTION 37(1) OF THE WESTERN CAPE LIQUOR ACT,2008 – [REG 10(1)]
Notice is hereby given that the following applications for liquor licences have been lodged with the Western Cape Liquor Authority (the Authority) and with the designated liquor officers at the indicated South African Police Service offices The applications concerned may, up to and including the 28th day from the date of publication of the application, upon request and free of charge, be inspected by any person, at the offices of the Authority or the designated liquor officer listedhereunder Copies of an application can be obtained from the Authority after payment of the prescribed fee Objections and representations must be lodged in writing with the Authority and the designated liquor officer in accordance with section 39 of the Act
VORM 3A - KENNISGEWING VAN AANSOEKE OM DRANKLISENSIES INGEVOLGE ARTIKEL 37(1) VAN DIE WES-KAAPSE DRANKWET,2008 – [REG. 10(1)] Hiermee word kennis gegee dat die volgende aansoeke om dranklisensies ingedien is by die Wes-Kaapse Drankowerheid (die Owerheid) en] by die aangewese drankbeamptes by die aangeduide Suid-Afrikaanse Polisiedienskantore Die betrokke aansoeke kan tot en met die 28ste dag vanaf die datum van publikasie van die aansoek op versoek en gratis deur enige persoon besigtig word by die kantore van die Owerheid of die aangewese drankbeampte hieronder gelys Afskrifte van ’n aansoek kan by die Owerheid verkry word na betaling van die voorgeskrewe fooi Besware en vertoë moet ooreenkomstig artikel 39 van die Wet skriftelik by die Owerheid en die aangewese drankbeampte ingedien word
Kind of licence applied for Tipe lisensie waarom aansoek gedoen word Uhlobo lwephepha mvume olucelayo
South African Police Services designated liquor officer office where the application has been lodged
Suid-Afrikaanse Polisiedienskantoor van die aangewese drankbeampte waar die aansoek ingedien is i-Ofisi yeGosa elijongene nemiba engotywala yeeNkonzo zamaPolisa eMzantsi Afrika apho isicelo sifakwe khona
Duane Minder and his wife Sade. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Post is distributed every Tuesday and reach an estimated 419 650 readers
NM10029098-QK230925
Bayview’s thrilling victory
NAMHLA MONAKALI
NAMHLA MONAKALI@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA
Bayview Rover FC, a community soccer club from Hangberg in Hout Bay, has been crowned champions of the Sunday Sentinel League Tournament after an outstanding season that culminated in a thrilling victory on Sunday 14 September
The club, which is uniquely run by female coach and chair Deidre Louw, competed against 12 other teams throughout the season before clinching the title on the weekend
Speaking to People’s Post, she said: “This victory is not just for the players, but for the entire Hangberg community,” who have been at the forefront of the club’s development “It proves that with discipline, hard work and community support anything is possible ”
The win has been hailed an historic moment for women in sport leadership, as Bayview Rover FC is one of the few clubs in the region led by a female coach and chair
Players, parents and supporters gathered on Sunday to celebrate the achievement, turning the tournament into a festive community affair
“For many of the young players the league has provided more than just football,” Louw said, “it has offered mentorship, discipline and hope
“We play not only to win but to inspire younger kids in Hangberg to stay off the streets and believe in themselves ”
The Sentinel League, a popular community competition, brings together soccer talent from across Hout Bay and surrounding areas
Organisers said this year ’ s tournament was one of the most competitive to date, with Bayview Rover FC showing consistency and resilience from start to finish
Looking ahead, the club hopes the win will attract more resources and sponsorships to strengthen their programme, particularly for youth development in Hangberg
“We’ve shown what is possible and we ’ re ready to build on this success, ” Louw added The victory has cemented Bayview Rover FC’s reputation as one of the rising forces in grassroots football, with the community already buzzing about next season
Female coach leads Hangberg club to Sentinel glory
