Mustadafin’s children put on a three-course meal and entertainment for their elders

On Saturday 27 August 2022, 250 seniors were treated by Mustadafin Foundation to a delicious three course meal in Bridgetown. The pensioners were also enchanted with entertainment by Ikraam Cupido and Aunty Niesa Abrahams with local music to accompany their meals.

“Our elders are important pillars in society, they have cared for younger generations, worked for most part of their lives, and ensured that family and community traditions are upheld,” says Ghairunisa Johnstone-Cassiem, director of Mustadafin.

The event was organised to support the elderly that are were affected by the impact of COVID 19 and the increasing inflation rates. In under-resourced, low-income communities the elderly are a vulnerable group that are often left to deal with these challenges alone.

“One of the greatest honours in life is taking care of those who once took care of us. These incredible men and women should be celebrated as the pillars of society, admired for their contribution to their communities and consulted for their wisdom and experience,” says Johnstone-Cassiem.

Mustadafin’s social welfare department hosted a number of programmes where elders in communities were hosted by early childhood development centres (ECD) giving them the opportunity to engage with young children. Taking place in Sherwood Park, Tafelsig, Delft and Khayelitsha, the children at the ECD centres were excited to help prepare food and put on entertainment for their elders.

“To the staff of Mustadafin, thank you so much for the love, kindness and happiness you brought to us. This was one of the best afternoons I spent with other people from my area under the same roof since the start of COVID-19,” said Fatima Felander, one of the seniors attending the programme. “As a senior, I really enjoyed myself. The atmosphere was good. Thank you so much, may your organisation grow from strength to strength,” added Felander.

“The events were filled with positivity and joy, especially with our ECD children providing the entertainment for their elders,” shares Johnstone-Cassiem. “We would like to thank all our donors and event sponsors; we can’t wait to see how this programme and event grows in the years to come.”