Guests from Bhekulwandle, the greater Durban area, Johannesburg, the United Kingdom, the United States and Canada attended the anniversary celebration. It marked the largest such gathering at SOH since the royal visit of His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini in 2005.
The milestone was marked by a festive programme, which included performances by local adult and children’s choirs and speeches by co-founder Heather Liebenberg, CEO Carl Waldron, and traditional leader Inkosi Nathi Maphumulo.
“We estimate about 450 people attended the event at our offices in Bhekulwandle, including representatives of our international partner charities,” said Carl. “One of the highlights was a series of three personal testimonials given by SOH clients, expressing how our children’s education, youth leadership and women’s sewing programmes have impacted their lives.”
The event also included the official premiere of a locally-filmed documentary, Izwi LeBhekulwandle (the Voice of Bhekulwandle). The film features interviews with two dozen residents, highlighting the common experiences, concerns and dreams that bind a community together.
“The response was enthusiastic, especially when each person in attendance was given a DVD copy to take home.”
Since its inception in 2003, Seed of Hope has focused on strengthening community health, children’s education and adult vocational training. Programmes include sewing and farming skills, HIV testing and support, and after-school activities for children aged between four and 18-years-old.
For more information on SOH, call 031-903-1125, or visit www.theseedofhope.org
