Pa’s in Aksie host a family Bokpark in Fairland
Laerskool Fairland was the perfect setting for the event which was spearheaded by the school's fathers.
![Hendrik ‘Henno’ Mentz, Bakkies Botha, André Aiton and Ajee Valentine.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/10/20230923182606_IMG__35057-e1696339887561.jpg)
Families loaded their cars full of fun day essentials and made their way to Laerskool Fairland where Pa’s in Aksie hosted a stellar Bokpark.
The day had all the makings for an awesome day for mom, dad and the kids to enjoy. From great food supplied from various local vendors, music, a big screen to watch the Rugby World Cup match between the Springboks and Ireland and a whole host of other elements, such as face painting, an entertainment section for the children to have fun in and an auction that generated thousands.
Committee member Ajee Valentine explained another great element to the night was the panel discussion he emceed that featured Springboks, Hendrik ‘Henno’ Mentz and John Philip, more widely known as Bakkies Botha. During this segment, the former rugby players shared on their experiences on and off the field from the good, the bad and the novelties found in-between.
![Items that were sold through auction.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2023/10/20230923204815_IMG__72723-e1696339826419-520x354.jpg)
Valentine said it’s days like these, which are hosted every quarter, that this non-profit’s biggest financial drawers as it allows for them to raise funds that will be channelled back into the school. Though they are only two years old they are 180 members strong.
The organisation only has the school’s fathers as its members, the essence of the group is described as one that has aims to foster a strong community within the school and within the network of fathers. “Dads are the head of the home, they work and provide and we identified that in certain households, there are absent fathers. Whether this be through their passing or divorce,” said Valentine.
At its core this group is driven by each man’s understanding of their struggles, pressures and need to be there for their children. “Through events like these you find a sense of belonging along with that, a sharing of lived experiences.”
Such events help them exchange stories and learn from each other.
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