From feeding schemes to youth upliftment, the City honours Helderberg community heroes
26 May 2026
Community heroes from across the Helderberg area were celebrated at a Civic Awards Ceremony hosted by the City’s Subcouncil 8 on Friday, 22 May 2026, at the Strand Town Hall. The event recognised the outstanding contributions of individuals, organisations, volunteers and City officials from communities, including Strand, Somerset West, Gordon’s Bay, Macassar, Nomzamo, Sir Lowry’s Pass and surrounding areas, who continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of residents through service, compassion, and community upliftment initiatives.
‘As a City of Hope, we are inspired when residents step forward to uplift and care for one another. The stories recognised at the Subcouncil 8 Civic Awards remind us that meaningful change does not happen through government alone, but through communities choosing compassion, service and active citizenship every single day. From Lisa Starr dedicating countless hours to environmental education and beach clean-ups, to Pastor Mark Baatjies’ decades of community leadership, and Sammy and Phia Louw ensuring vulnerable families never go without a warm meal, these acts of service give us hope for the future of our city. They show us that governance is a journey co-owned by residents who are willing to stand up, get involved and help build stronger, safer and more caring communities for all,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Corporate Services, Alderman Theresa Uys.
Among the recipients honoured with civic awards on Friday were several individuals whose extraordinary efforts have had a lasting impact on vulnerable residents and local communities.
Monica Buitendag, founder and CEO of Heartlands Baby Sanctuary, was honoured for providing specialised care and a safe environment for abandoned, neglected, and vulnerable infants. Through her leadership, the sanctuary has become a place of hope and protection for children during the most critical stages of their lives.
Mofolo Ramothathaki was recognised for his unwavering commitment to youth upliftment and community development in Nomzamo and surrounding areas. Through the establishment of Ekasi Gym, he has helped many young people and former substance abuse users find purpose, discipline, and hope for a better future.
Beverley Adriaanse, founder of the Yaro Community Based Project NPO, received recognition for her compassionate work supporting vulnerable children and families in Macassar. Her initiative not only provides daily meals to children before school, but also introduced a baby saver facility aimed at protecting vulnerable infants and supporting young mothers in crisis.
‘The individuals and organisations recognised on Friday represent the very best of our communities. Their selfless commitment to helping others, often without expecting recognition, continues to inspire hope and unity across our wards,’ said Subcouncil 8 Chairperson, Councillor Chantal Cerfontein.
Special recognition was also extended to various City line departments and officials for their ongoing responsiveness and support to communities, particularly in addressing service delivery matters and participating in local oversight and engagement initiatives.
‘Strong partnerships between communities and local government remain essential in creating safer, healthier and more resilient neighbourhoods. We appreciate every individual and organisation that continues to work alongside the City to uplift our communities,’ said acting Subcouncil 8 Manager, Nonzuzo Jacob.
The event concluded with words of appreciation as well as music by the City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Service Band.
Caption 1: Group photo with three award recipients together with Subcouncil 8 Staff at the Strand Town Hall
Caption 2: Group photo of five award recipients together with Subcouncil 8 Staff at the Strand Town Hall
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
