Heritage and diversity of cultures commemorated by elderly

The community at Rand Aid’s Ron Smith Care Centre embraced their culture by dressing up in traditional outfits and participating in a wonderful Heritage Day celebration recently.

Also read: Listeners sing a song with Eden Radio

Part of the preparations for the day involved a ‘get to know your heritage’ exercise, whereby care centre staff engaged with the elders to discover their cultural background.

They then helped to create a hat for each of the 150 residents, with the residents’ name, country and flag of his/her origin incorporated into the design.

It was discovered that although most of the residents were born in South Africa, many come from diverse backgrounds and have roots in Italy, Portugal, Germany, France, Poland, Netherlands, Lithuania, Latvia, Indonesia, England, Scotland, Ireland, Isle of Man, China, Canada, Israel, Namibia, Egypt, Zimbabwe or Zambia, giving the whole event a universal feel.

In addition, colourful flags from all over the world were made in the OT Activity Centre.

They were used as centrepieces for the gaily decorated tables, and as bunting to decorate the lapas and gazebos in the beautiful Woodlands garden where the event was held.

The residents and staff gathered in their numbers to celebrate the richness and diversity of cultures represented at the care centre.

The celebrations began with a riot of colour as various staff from housekeeping, nursing, kitchen and garden services, presented a programme of traditional dances representing the Zulu, Xhosa, Venda, Tsonga, and Shangaan tribes.

The staff also performed an Israeli folk dance called Nigun Atik and a Scarf Dance to a Strauss Viennese Waltz. At a certain point in the programme, the dancers scattered into the audience and moved joyously to the music with the elders, which brought smiles of delight and laughter.

For more news and interesting articles, like Joburg East Express on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. Email joburgeast@caxton.co.za