Ekurhuleni elderly choirs unite for financial independence

The Greater Ekurhuleni Elder Choir Fundraising Forum, an initiative founded in 2018, has become a symbol of unity and resilience among the elderly.

Comprised of older persons from various areas, including Dawn Park, Vosloorus, Tokoza, Duduza, KwaThema, Tsakane, and Daveyton, this forum has been a harmonious effort to foster community spirit and provide much-needed financial support to its members.

The origins of the forum trace back to a shared vision of uniting older individuals who have a passion for singing and a desire to support each other.

Initially concentrated in the southern parts of Ekurhuleni, the forum has since expanded to the eastern regions, reflecting its growing influence and the widespread appeal of its mission.

According to Cynthia Nhlapho, a forum member, the journey has not been without challenges.

“The forum was started with high hopes and great enthusiasm. However, in 2020, we faced an unexpected halt in our activities due to the pandemic.

“It was a difficult time for all of us, but our commitment to the cause never wavered,” said Nhlapho.

In 2022, we revived the forum, marking a new chapter in its history.

The resuscitation of the forum was driven by a renewed sense of purpose and determination among its members.

“We knew we had to come back stronger. Our community needed this platform more than ever.

“The forum now consists of both funded and non-funded organisations, each with unique financial needs. The forum includes organisations that receive some funding but still struggle to meet their needs and those that are entirely unfunded.

“Through our collective efforts, we aim to bridge these gaps and support everyone involved,” said Nhlapho.

Harmonious effort

Nhlapho said the core activity of the forum revolves around rotating performances in various areas. Choirs from different regions come together to sing, and tickets are sold for these events.

“We use the proceeds from ticket sales to support the forum’s activities and provide meals for the choir members.
“Singing is at the heart of what we do, but it is also about much more than that. It is about supporting one another and creating a sense of community.

“Besides the internal support, the forum invites external audiences to their performances, further boosting their fundraising efforts.

“We sell tickets to our events and invite people outside our immediate community to join us. It is a wonderful way to raise funds and to share our music with a broader audience.”

The forum’s influence has steadily grown since its inception.

“Currently, it includes about 10 organisations, each bringing their unique flavour and style to the collective performances.

“Monthly events are organised, ensuring a regular platform for interaction, performance, and fundraising.

“Our monthly events are a highlight for many of us. They provide a regular opportunity to connect, share, and support each other,” Nhlapho explained, adding the expansion into more parts of Ekurhuleni is proof of the forum’s success and the strong demand for such initiatives.

“We have seen growth and interest in what we are doing. It is incredibly encouraging.

“At the heart of the Greater Ekurhuleni Elder Choir Fundraising Forum is a mission to support each other and achieve financial independence.

“Our primary goal is to avoid the threat of closure due to lack of funding. We want to be independent and self-sustaining.

“The forum provides a vital safety net for its members, especially for those who might not have other means of financial support.

“Even those organisations that receive funding from the government often find it insufficient to meet all their needs. The forum provides a crucial platform for additional fundraising,” Nhlapho said.

Any organisation that wants to be part of the forum or help support the forum can contact Cynthia Nhlapho on 082 427 386.