Community leaders, feeding scheme organisers and youth upliftment champions from across the Helderberg area were honoured during the City of Cape Town’s Subcouncil 8 Civic Awards Ceremony held at the Strand Town Hall.
The event celebrated individuals, organisations, volunteers and City officials making a meaningful impact in communities including Strand, Somerset West, Gordon’s Bay, Macassar, Nomzamo and Sir Lowry’s Pass.
The awards recognised residents working to uplift vulnerable communities through environmental action, youth empowerment, feeding programmes, childcare support and social development initiatives.
The City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Corporate Services, Alderman Theresa Uys, said the awards highlighted the importance of active citizenship and community-led change.
“As a City of Hope, we are inspired when residents step forward to uplift and care for one another,” said Uys.
“The stories recognised at the Subcouncil 8 Civic Awards remind us that meaningful change does not happen through government alone, but through communities choosing compassion, service and active citizenship every single day.”
Among those honoured was Monica Buitendag, founder and CEO of Heartlands Baby Sanctuary, recognised for providing specialised care and safe shelter for abandoned and vulnerable infants.
Mofolo Ramothathaki received recognition for his work empowering youth through the establishment of Ekasi Gym, which supports young people and former substance abuse users in Nomzamo and surrounding communities.
Beverley Adriaanse, founder of the Yaro Community Based Project NPO, was honoured for supporting vulnerable children and families in Macassar through feeding programmes and the introduction of a baby saver facility aimed at protecting vulnerable infants.
Subcouncil 8 Chairperson Councillor Chantal Cerfontein praised the recipients for their continued commitment to helping others.
“The individuals and organisations recognised represent the very best of our communities. Their selfless commitment to helping others, often without expecting recognition, continues to inspire hope and unity across our wards,” said Cerfontein.
Special recognition was also extended to City officials and line departments for their role in supporting communities and responding to service delivery challenges.
Acting Subcouncil 8 Manager Nonzuzo Jacob said collaboration between communities and local government remains essential in building stronger neighbourhoods.
“Strong partnerships between communities and local government remain essential in creating safer, healthier and more resilient neighbourhoods,” said Jacob.
The event concluded with musical performances by the City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Service Band, celebrating the people helping shape stronger communities across the Helderberg region.
