City honours community heroes from Subcouncil 8 at Civic Awards Ceremony

06 June 2025

In a heartfelt celebration of community spirit and resilience, the City's Subcouncil 8 recently hosted a Civic Awards ceremony at the Strand Council Chambers to honour individuals and organisations that have gone above and beyond in serving their local communities.

The event on 22 May 2025 recognised the outstanding contributions of those who have worked hand-in-hand with the Subcouncil to uplift, protect and support residents, especially during times of crisis such as the recent storms in Cape Town.

The ceremony brought together community leaders, civic partners and residents for an evening of reflection and to recognise their efforts. The recipients of the Civic Awards were praised for their unwavering commitment to community development, disaster response, and social upliftment.

'These awards are a testament to the power of collaboration. The individuals and organisations we have recognised have shown exceptional dedication and selflessness. Their partnership with the Subcouncil has enabled us to implement meaningful projects that have made a real difference in people’s lives,' said Councillor Cerfontein, Subcouncil 8 Chairperson.

Among the awardees were local NGOs, community-based organisations and volunteers who played a crucial role during the severe storms that affected parts of Cape Town last year. Their quick response, coordination of relief efforts and hands-on support ensured that vulnerable residents received food, shelter, and other essential services during challenging times. From rebuilding damaged homes to running food distribution programmes and offering psychological social support, these heroes demonstrated what it means to serve with compassion and commitment.

'The City is grateful for each and every volunteer who gave their time, shared a meal and every resident who came together in unity to assist those most vulnerable during the storms. It is an honour to be part of a community that truly cares,' said Cerfontein.

The Acting Subcouncil Manager, Nonzuzo Jacob, also extended her gratitude to all partners and stakeholders who continue to contribute to its vision of building resilient and thriving communities.

The event served not only as a celebration of past efforts but also as a renewed call to action for continued collaboration and civic involvement. When communities and government structures work together, extraordinary things happen.

Names of the Civic Awards recipients:
Mr. Basil Branco; Ms Sadiqa Youd (Sadiqa’s Kitchen); Ms Xolelwa Sylvia Hlonyana (Peace of mind foster home & Community projects NGO); Pastor Lizo Makhasi (Annointed Christian Ministries); Ms Katy Arendse (Maranatha Soup Kitchen); Ms Lisa Starr (Helderberg Ocean Awareness); Ms Hazel Swannepoel (Community Humanitarian); Ms Charlene Bester (Rusthof Safe & Clean);Mr Jannie Vrieslaar (Broadland Park Community Forum); Ms. Monica Speelman (Unite The Needy NGO); Ms. Mynoena Latief (Unite The Needy NGO); Ms Sumaya Gabier (SOUP NGO), Ms Eveline Berggeren; Mr. Ashraf Khan (Community Humanitarian), Mr. Baron Farmer (Neighbourhood watch Weltevreden); Mr. Thembikosi Mgcule (Community Humanitarian); Ms Edwina Hadfield (Gordon’s Bay Ratepayers Association); Mr Dave Walker (Soetriver Catchment Forum);Ms. Janap White Strand Outreach Kitchens; Ms. Trudie Schoeman  & Ms. Fefe (Strong Schools Organisation); Mr Willem Bernhardt (Community Humanitarian); Ms Lillia Fortune (Community Humanitarian); Ms Zoleka Toni (Sisonke Sinako NGO); Mr Vincent Sonwabo Tom (Community Humanitarian); Ms Elmarie Bennet (Rusthof Safe & Clean); Ms Beverley January (Rusthof Safe & Clean); Ms Gerdia Viljoen (Soetriver Catchment Forum).

Caption: The Civic Award winners who were honoured for their work and that of their organisations.

End

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office