Winnie Mabaso Foundation celebrates 20th anniversary

The Winnie Mabaso Foundation (WMF) celebrated its 20th anniversary on May 25, commemorating two decades of unwavering dedication to empowering orphans, vulnerable children, and their communities in Ennerdale, Meriting, and Finetown.

The festive day was marked by joyous dancing and heartfelt testimonies from children and elderly people who have benefited from the Foundation’s life-changing programmes.

Present during the celebration of this milestone were board members of WMF and representatives from partners, including Shoprite ACT, Edelman Africa, and the University of Johannesburg.

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WMF is an NPO founded by British filmmaker Lisa Ashton in honour and support of Mama Winnie Mabaso, who was dedicated to empowering orphans and vulnerable children in the community of Finetown.

A long-time serving staff member at WMF, Charity Pitso said Mam’ Winnie’s love, charity, and legacy have been the driving force behind the organisation’s growth and success.

“Her memories continue to inspire us to do more and reach further in our mission to transform the lives of the children and the community,” she said.

Pitso shared that the organisation has not only benefited the community but has also allowed and enabled the young staff members to grow, pursue their life purpose, and explore their talents.

“Looking at where I am today in comparison to the young lady who started working here years ago, I am personally proud of myself,” she noted.

She is currently a supervisor of the WMF’s preschool, having been sent to school by the Foundation, and obtained her qualification as a teacher in 2021.

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Pitso continues to study for an advanced qualification, having begun her career with the organisation as a kitchen assistant.

The preschool is one of the programmes and services provided by the organisation free of charge to residents of the Meriting, an informal settlement in Finetown.

Known as the Mabaso Tiny Tots, the school currently has 30 children registered between the ages of two and five years of age.

Mamokgele Louw, one of the parents, expressed gratitude and stressed the importance of the programme in the community.

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“I am grateful to the preschool because, without this programme, I would not be able to afford to take my child to crèche on our monthly income from a children’s grant.

“My child has learned many skills; since joining, she gives thanks before super, recites poems, and recognises colours,” Louw shared.

As part of the activities of the day, the Winnie Mabaso Grannies Club and Mama Nabantwana graced the attendees with a choir performance.

The young and youth programmes, Ilamula Home for Girls and S’bonelo Boys, performed fun dance routines showcasing some of SA’s trending dancing moves to entertain the hundreds of attendees.

“Seeing the children dance with joy and hearing their stories of transformation is a testament to the incredible work of the WMF,’ said Lemohang Modise, an employee.

“Winnie would be so proud of how far the Foundation has come and the lives it continues to change.”