The contest was hosted by the Gauteng Department of Social Development and the Ekurhuleni Social Development Department.
Daveton Seniors took first place in the western prescribed song and own choice song, trophies for both.
“Our choir was started in 2008 and currently we have about 50 members from the age of 60 upwards.
“We believe we always succeed in these competitions because we take this as a family choir.
“We are all committed and accept everyone’s idea,” says chairperson of the choir, Gladys Sechai (77).
She thanked their conductors, Keamogetse Dhlamini and Percy Nkosi, who are always teaching them new things and who have the time and patience for them.
To date the choir has won 21 trophies at various competitions.
Dhlamini says this choir has changed the lives of these elderly.
“This shows that you are never too old to be young at heart.
“Some of these seniors have never been part of a choir before, but they are copying very well.
“It helps them physically and socially because through this, they become more active,” she says.
Dhlamini hopes that the Department of Social Development will make these competitions run to national level and not just provincial.
The oldest member of the choir, 80-year-old Molelekoa Aser Lesenyeho, says he is happy and comfortable when he is with the choir.
He says through this he is ageing wisely and actively.
“We learn a lot here and are able to encourage each other, and when we go to competitions, our aim is always to enjoy ourselves, hence we always do well,” he says.
