Spreading Sunshine Through Community Upliftment
To celebrate Women’s Month Sunshine Nation, the newest non-profit organisation (NPO) in Gansbaai, successfully held its very first event at Masakhane along with Grootbos Foundation on Saturday, 31 August 2024 in the Masakhane Community Hall. Sunshine Nation, dedicated to community upliftment, has recently expanded its efforts to the Overstrand region, with a particular focus on Gansbaai.
The full programme included the following: Guest speaker Zozo Bkani (Best performing woman PES farmer award winner of 2023); Self-defence situational awareness demonstration with Karate Gansbaai; Mental health relaxation workshop by Ronél le Roux (Professional nursing sister specializing in Mental Health); Workshops by Grootbos Foundation.
“Our core areas of focus include various community upliftment projects,” says CEO and Founder Eloise van Tonder. “Among these, we will address employability, HIV, TB, and STI awareness and education, as well as issues related to spousal abuse, substance abuse, and mental health awareness. We are fortunate to have the support of doctors, nurses, and counsellors who specialise in these areas.”
During the event, Grootbos Foundation helped to provide 200 meals and drinks to local community members, enhancing the day’s impact. The event featured a vibrant display of local talent, including a performance by Tata Didamasoka and our local cultural dancers. Ronel Le Roux, a retired psychiatric nurse, also led a valuable mental health awareness and relaxation workshop. The Grootbos Foundation engaged children with interactive games, ensuring a fun and educational experience for all.
“The day was a resounding success,” says Elouise. “We received a warm welcome from the Masakhane community, and Sunshine Nation looks forward to continuing our collaborative efforts with this vibrant community.” She added: “While being the ‘new kids on the block’ and in the process of securing official funding, we were overwhelmed by the community’s willingness and support for Sunshine Nation thus far. We’ve received generous sponsorships for the day, and we remain deeply grateful for all the support.”
As Sunshine Nation moves forward, the organisation is committed to building on this foundation and continuing to spread hope and positivity throughout the community. We, as a community, are excited to see what Sunshine Nation will achieve in the future.
(Information and pictures provided by Dinah-Lee Visser, Marketing Director - Sunshine Nation)
Hardus Botha
