Organisation focuses on elderly’s health
The organisation, which began operating in May, recently received its NPO certificate.
Empilisweni for Gogo and Mkhulu Development Organisation is officially a registered entity.
The organisation, which opened its doors to senior citizens and pensioners in May 2022, said the journey was long but worth it.
“We struggled for close to a year to obtain our NPO certificate, and now that we have it, people will know we are serious about this venture,” says the founder and chairperson, MacDonald Nyoka.
Situated on the outskirts of Wright Park, Empilisweni is near the senior citizens of Pollak Park, Wright Park, Kwa-Thema, Brakpan and Reedville but is open to all.
“We encourage our patrons to join us to improve their quality of life. We have members who hail from as far as Casseldale in our fold.”
A chef by profession, Nyoka, says teaching elderly people about good eating habits will encourage them to lead healthier lives.
“I have many stories where I had to explain to people the importance of a good diet to aid them in getting healthier or feeling better when they are sick.”
Martha Malefetshane, George Skhakha, Onica Maleka and MacDonald Nyoko (with Pinky Mtsweni, Philipine Mcebi and Willy Lukhele in absentia).
He adds that their approach is holistic because he wants the organisation to tackle other social issues such as exercise, mental health and loneliness.
“We also want to bring some joy through singing, dancing, laughter and excursions.”
They hope to introduce activities that keep their members stimulated, such as sports and handwork. The organisation is free for those who want to join.
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“This will be time spent away from stressful situations. We invite those who have not yet joined to come onboard.”
Nyoka says that now that they are a legal entity, they hope to secure sponsorships to help them run the organisation more efficiently.
“Our numbers keep growing, and our need for more resources increases. We hope local businesses will smile down on us and help us run Empilisweni. Every donation matters.”
Nyoka wants everyone to know they will conduct the organisation in a professional manner beneficial to all.
“Our executive committee comprises retired skilled professionals who believe in order and decorum.”
Empilisweni is at the Imithombo Management building on Prince George Avenue (facing Wright Park).
They hold sessions every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 08:30 and run for about an hour.
For more information, call Nyoka on 073 366 407 or email empiliswenioldage@gmail.com
