#CasualDay: Something worth smiling about

A smile can speak a thousand words.

It is an expression of care and compassion, a sign of encouragement and a celebration of life’s big and small victories.

In celebration of the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities’ (NCPD) Casual Day on September 1, you can leave the whacky costumes at home and simply wear your most beautiful asset and #ShareASmile.

Apricot Tree sprouted in 2009 and operated from a therapist’s rooms to offer children living with a range of disabilities a space to learn and interact.

In 2013, the NPO found its roots on Ninth Avenue, Northmead, offering junior development and stimulation for younger learners.

In 2019, the facility further branched out to the Lifestyle Centre.

It has 35 learners aged from three to 25.

To practice our biggest and best smiles ahead of Casual Day, the Benoni City Times spent time with the centre’s ‘apricots’, learning about the learners’ unique personalities.

Sipping on a cup of steaming coffee lovingly brewed by one a leaner, a smile spreads over principal Abby Reason’s face as she talks about the beautiful souls of each child and adult at the centre.

“We are all different. Not a single person on this planet is a carbon copy of another,” she said.

“We all have our strengths and weaknesses, yet we are willing to meet each other on an unspoken level of understanding. We often only need a smile to communicate.

“Working with children requiring specialised attention is a magical experience because you meet them on a platform of pure love. Our learners have much to teach us about living joyfully in the moment and celebrating every aspect of life.”

Speaking with the aid of her trusty tablet, learner Kearsten (14) has found her voice and expression.
Carefully selecting icons communicating her thoughts, Kearsten said one of her favourite activities was riding her quad bike, Frieda Steely, and playing ball with her friends.

Using sign language, she said she loved her friends and enjoyed her recent carnival-themed party with them.
Smiling as she listened to the device deliver her message, Kearsten exuded an aura of excitement, knowing she was heard, understood and spoken to with equal understanding.

A ray of sunshine filled the room when learner Aramis (23) entered with a smile that could melt any heart.

“Look at my jacket; there is so much hair from my dog,” he said. “My German shepherd, Shinga, gives hugs and kisses in the morning.”

Jumping right into a confident conversation, Aramis said he loved playing games, dancing and being outside when he was at the centre.

“I love all my lessons, but my favourite thing is music,” he said. “My dad and I are always listening to our tunes – rock, country or Afrikaans. We are not picky as long as it is good.”

ALSO READ: #ShareaSmile this Casual Day

Aramis loves cars and the sounds they make. His favourite is a Mini.

“It must not be an old, slow car. I want to go so fast that I have to hang on to the seat,” he said with a laugh.

After checking her hair and ensuring she was ready for her close-up, Isis (16) waltzed into the room with the air of a goddess and the grace of a salsa dancer.

“I was named after an Egyptian goddess,” she said with authority. “My parents took us there in April, and I loved every moment.”

Perched on a chair, Isis talked about her passion for singing, dancing and participating in Zumba classes with her mom.

“I am a performer and will one day sing on a huge stage,” she proudly announced. “I like fancy things, like going to restaurants, and you can give me a mani and pedi any day.”

About Casual Day

Casual Day is the annual fundraising campaign of the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD). For more information and where to buy your tickets, go to www.casualday.co.za.

Already launched, the campaign runs until September 1, which is Casual Day. The theme of Casual Day 2023 is #ShareASmile with Persons with Disabilities.

“This theme aims to promote kindness, goodwill, and positivity in support of persons with disabilities in South Africa,” said NCPD national director Therina Wentzel.

“A smile can trigger a positive chain reaction of wonderfully, uncontrollable proportions.”

In support of Casual Day, individuals and organisations are encouraged to purchase Casual Day stickers (R20 each) and specially branded merchandise before September 1, and to wear them with pride on the day.

Visit www.casualday.co.za to find out where purchases can be made, or to order personalised stickers.

“Casual Day has raised over R404m since 1995, thanks to the wonderful support of members of the public who purchase their stickers from participating retail stores, participating companies, our 600+ beneficiary NPOs and schools that renew their participation every year.

“The proceeds go to persons with disabilities at schools, homes and workshops represented by the participating beneficiary organisations,” said Wentzel.

ALSO READ: NCPD celebrates 25 years of Casual Day success and reveals 2019 theme