TygerBurger | Kuilsrivier | E-Edition | 26 November 2025

Measles riseinp

The Western Cape is seeing an increase in measles outbreaks in urban areas such as Kraaifontein, Eerste River, Mitchells Plain and Wesbank

According to the provincial health department the increase in measles cases is not unique to the Western Cape as South Africa is currently facing a decline in childhood vaccination uptake which poses a serious risk for public health and threatens the country’s efforts to eliminate vaccine preventable diseases

This decline contributed to multiple outbreaks of measles, rubella, and diphtheria across the province, signalling serious gaps in population immunity, the department said in a statement

"Ensuring immunisation coverage across the province remains a top priority of the Western Cape health and wellness department

“Since October 2024, the department has ramped up its immunisation efforts to protect young children from serious and life-threatening vaccine-preventable diseases "

The department is working with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) to maintain sufficient measles vaccination stock and has implemented an early warning and response system that includes surveillance and community engagement

Targeted vaccination outreaches will be prioritised in the areas where we see a rapid increase in measles cases

Search for missing mom

Badisa Kuils River is seaking the public's assistance to find a biological mother: Emarencha Minnies (38) Her current whereabouts are unknown, but she was last reported to be in Bonteheuwel Anyone who knows her current whereabouts is asked to contact the social worker, Sugnét Stewe

. Call the Badisa Kuils River office on 021 906 1881 (weekdays between 08:00 and 16:00).

Dis tyd vir Jan Kriel se Liggieboomfees

Jan Krielskool se Liggieboomfees vind op Saterdag 29 November op die skool se terrein in Kuilsrivier plaas ten bate van die skool se leerders met spesiale onderwysbehoeftes.

Kom kuier saam met Leah vir 'n spesiale vertoning en geniet pragtige optredes van die kinders Bring jou kampstoel of kombers en sommer die hele familie om die wonderlike oomblik wanneer die Liggieboom met meer as 10 000 liggies aangeskakel word, te aanskou. Daar sal kosstalletjies wees en veilige parkeerplek.

Kaartjies sluit al die vertonings en 'n gratis LED-liggie in. . Kry kaartjies by www.liggieboom.co.za.

Buy a light to support hospice fund-raiser

Tygerberg Hospice's annual Tree of Lights event will take place on Thursday 4 December at 19:00 at Jan Kriel School in Kuils River

Bring along a picnic blanket for an evening of remembrance and hope with a tree lit up in honour of loved ones who have passed Khadija Heeger will be the guest speaker and gospel-singer Salome will bring her soulful presence to the evening.

A light in remembrance of a loved one costs R60 Every light dedicated helps Tygerberg Hospice provide home-based care, comfort, and support to families facing life-limiting illness.

. Visit www.tygerberghospice.org or call 021 946 2460 to make your dedication and light purchase

FROMPAGE1

Nefdt explained Bet-el is a school of skills, but also has a section for severely intellectually-disabled learners (starting from age 7) Schools of skills offer a fouryear programme for learners from age 14 who could not progress in mainstream education and were referred The learners can acquire skills such as panel beating, welding or upholstering

The school and its learners, from disadvantaged communities, face many challenges These include crime and safety risks, particularly for learners with limited resources, who often have to walk long distances to and from school, having no real support structures and negative influences such as gangsterism being everpresent

CHALLENGES

Although the school has a pool on its premises, it is not currently in use

Nefdt recalled a principals’ meeting a few years ago, when a principal from Wesbank informed him a learner who was meant to start at Bet-el that year had drowned during the holidays “I asked, ‘Where? At the beach?’ He said, ‘No, in the river running through Kuils River and Wesbank ’”

He said the school was working towards

getting the pool operational again, both for the benefit of learners and possibly to extend learn-to-swim programmes to the broader community “We lobbied for Lotto funding, and the first thing we did was close the pool to protect it The swimming pool still needs work, but it’s a 25 m x 12 m pool that we have here ”

Nefdt highlighted that even without access to the school’s pool one of the teachers, Graham Manchest – a qualified lifeguard – assisted a former learner to qualify as a lifeguard Two years later that learner is still employed as a lifeguard by the City of Cape Town “He took that learner to public swimming pools to train and qualify, and that has become another income stream for the family ”

“We want to train learners in greater numbers It’s not only about employment, but also about preventing tragedies like the one involving the learner who drowned before he could even start here ” Extending the programme beyond the school is possible, he said, as they have capable staff who can assist

CIVICPRIDE

Nefdt said the Year 4 learners finishing school will hopefully make their mark in industry or the workplace, but the Dyanti twins excelled in something outside the

curriculum “I want to thank the City for this acknowledgement I researched what civic pride means, and it includes respect for public spaces, public initiatives and public assets, active participation, a sense of belonging and behaviour that uplifts the area ”

He noted that for many young people from disadvantaged communities, caring and respect often translate into loyalty to gangs or other negative influences He emphasised the need to redirect this loyalty towards things that add genuine value to their lives

Nefdt explained that gangsterism offered a sense of belonging to those who feel excluded He stressed the need to make learners feel part of a larger, positive community while adults model responsible behaviour He commended the learners for their respectful conduct during the ceremony, noting that disruptive behaviour drags people down rather than uplifting them

TRAGEDYANDPASSION

Manchest’s involvement in lifesaving stemmed from personal tragedy In 1988 his daughter died after choking at a crèche, where no-one knew how to save her “That was when I realised there was a need in our community,” he said He has been a lifeguard for more than 30 years and has been involved at the lifesaving club at the Blue Downs pools since its founding in 2010

Manchest sees swimming as an equaliser for Bet-el’s learners and hopes to see lifesaving offered as a recognised short course, alongside the other skills they learn The Dyanti twins from Delft came from a kickboxing background and initially struggled with swimming “They went from absolute fear to swimming, even doing tumble turns I’m proud to say Bahle has started his lifesaving course,” Manchest said To qualify as a stillwater lifeguard, they must swim 100 m in two minutes He is confident Bahle will achieve this soon

Cyclingfor kid’shealth

The public voice of the City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue services will once again join the Grandad's Army Memorial Ride from East London to Cape Town from 1 to 5 March 2026, pedalling in support of children’s health care in the Eastern Cape It will be the sixth time Jermaine Carelse will do this ride

The challenging five-day cycle aims to raise funds for Eyabantwana For the Children Trust, an organisation that supports the Eastern Cape Paediatric Surgical Service, providing vital medical care to children in the region

The Grandad’s Army Memorial Ride combines endurance cycling with meaningful community support, as riders such as Carelse tackle the demanding route while raising awareness of children who need surgical intervention, as well as much-needed funds for this Community members can support Carelse’s campaign by purchasing raffle tickets at R50 each

PRIZESINCLUDE:

. Bilton wines;

. Afterlife Ink Tattoos voucher; . Copy of Jeremy Vearey’s “Crimson Sands”; . JBL cold-pressed soaps and . Chocolate surprise from Geldof To purchase raffle tickets or for more information about Carelse’s five-day cycling campaign, contact him at 072 384 6203 or email jermaine carelse@capetown gov za

ArmandvatKuilsrivierlandswyd

CARINAROUX

CARINA ROUX@NOVUSMEDIA CO ZA

Met sy deelname aan Mnr Doof Suid-Afrika wil Armand Groenewald (42) van Klipdam, Kuilsrivier, wys dat dowes groot hoogtes kan bereik.

Groenewald, wat sedert geboorte gehoorgestremd is, sê dit is vir hom 'n eer om Kuilsrivier nasionaal te verteenwoordig

"My ma het tydens haar swangerskap in ’n klerewinkel gewerk ’n Kollega daar het Duitse masels (rubella) gehad en my ma het ook siek geword " Wanneer swanger vroue die Rubellavirus gedurende die eerste trimester opdoen, kan dit lei tot ernstige geboortedefekte Dit staan bekend as aangebore rubella-sindroom (CRS), wat onder meer die baba se gehoor kan aantas Op 'n vraag oor mense wat skepties is oor inentings (wat as doeltreffend teen die rubella-virus bewys is), sê Groenewald hy kan net uit sy persoonlike ervaring praat "In my geval het die Duitse masels tydens my ma se swangerskap ’n groot impak op my lewe gehad Ek verstaan dus hoe belangrik dit kan wees om sekere siektes te voorkom

Ek glo elke mense – en ouer – moet altyd met hul dokter of gesondheidswerker praat om die beste, ingeligte besluit vir hul eie gesin te neem Ek respekteer dit dat mense verskillende sienings het, maar my ervaring wys vir my hoe ernstig die gevolge van hierdie siekte kan wees " Hy was van kleins af hardhorend en het twee gehoorapparate gedra "Ek kon hoor en praat," sê Groenewald

Deur die jare het hy verskeie skole vir dowes en hardhorendes bygewoon

Carel du Toit (Tygerberg), De La Bat (Worcester), Sonitus en Transoranje (beide

in Pretoria)

"Toe ek 40 geword het, het ek die gehoor in my linkeroor verloor en besluit om ’n kogleêre inplanting te kry Dit het my baie gehelp en my lewe verbeter "

Hy geniet dit om na musiek te luister en sing graag saam "veral gospel, want dit gee my hoop "

Die besluit om deel te neem aan Mnr

Doof SA 2025/26 gaan vir hom daaroor om groter bewusmaking vir dowes in SuidAfrika te skep

"Ek wil wys dat dowe mense talent het en groot dinge kan bereik "

Hy wil graag ander inspireer en help om stereotipes rondom die dowe gemeenskap af te breek Die kompetisie bied ook die geleentheid vir persoonlike groei

Hoewel hy tans werkloos is, pak hy klein projekte aan soos sosialemediabemarking en die skep van motiverende inhoud "Ek is aktief op soek na nuwe geleenthede "

PUBLISITEITSWEEK

Groenewald is tans ook besig met 'n geldinsamelingsprojek vir die kompetisie

Die Mnr Doof SA-kompetisie word aangebied deur Miss Mr & Mrs Deaf South Africa (MDSA), 'n onafhanklike organisasie sonder winsoogmerk, wat in 1995 gestig is vir die bemagtiging van dowes Die kompetisie begin jaarliks met oudisies en benoemings, waarna die finaliste aangewys word Die wenner sal ná afloop van die publisiteitsweek, wat in Maart plaasvind, by 'n glansgeleentheid aangewys word Die finaliste word tydens die publisiteitsweek op hul persoonlikheid,

selfvertroue, leierskap en kommunikasie beoordeel Hulle neem ook deel aan liefdadigheids- en geldinsamelingsprojekte as deel van die beoordelingsproses

Elke finalis word aangemoedig om minstens R3 000 in te samel om verblyf, kos en ander uitgawes tydens die publisiteitsweek te dek Enige bedrag meer as R3 000 kan aangewend word om hul reiskoste na Gauteng te dek

Buiten geldelike bydraes kan sakeondernemings ook 'n produk of diens aanbied, waarmee die finalis geld kan insamel . SMS “MDS12” na 47439 (R3 per SMS) om vir Groenewald te stem (stemproses is oop tot Februarie).

. Maak ‘n bydrae vir Groenewald by https:// www.backabuddy co.za/campaign/armandgroenewald-mdsa-journey

BuildershelpbyHuisDeKuilen

Die span by die splinternuwe Builders Warehouse Haasendal wat onlangs in River Quarter oopgemaak het, het nie gras onder hul voete laat groei nie en ingespring om betrokke te raak in die gemeenskap

Op Woensdag 19 November is hande vuilgemaak vir ’n goeie doel by Huis De Kuilen, 'n program van Badisa Inwoners en besoekers het ’n rustige oggend van tuinmaak geniet Danny Wade van Protek het praktiese wenke gedeel oor hoe om gesonde rose te kweek en die Shadowlands-kwekery het gewys hoe om buiteruimtes mooi te maak Almal het saam ingespring om rose in potte te plant Rian de Jager, bestuurder van Huis De Kuilen, het sy dank uitgespreek teenoor Frans Kamffer, bestuurder van Builders Warehouse Haasendal, en sy span wat verskeie projekte by die tehuis gaan aanpak

"Hierdie samewerking wys wat moontlik is wanneer mense uitreik en netwerke bou om ’n verskil in die gemeenskap te maak Massmart se betrokkenheid en omgee vir Huis De Kuilen beteken vir ons ongelooflik baie ”

Die tehuis het ook vir Taryn Prince van die Shadowlands-kwekery vir die pragtige plantjies bedank

"Dankie aan ons gasspreker, Danny Wade van Protek, vir ’n insiggewende en praktiese oggend ons weet nou presies wat om met die mierplaag te maak Ons inwoners het dit ongelooflik baie geniet, en almal het sommer geblom Dankie dat julle die saadjie van omgee hier by ons kom saai het," sê Elzané Feyt, fondswerwingsbeampte by Huis de Kuilen VERSKEIE PROJEKTE IS OP DIE

DAG VOLTOOI

Annualgalasupportsspecialneeds

DESIRÉERORKE

DESIREE RORKE@TYGERBURGER CO ZA

The Daniel and Friends Fund brought magic, music, and real impact together at their annual gala, a night that celebrated purpose and resilience

The event, recently hosted at the picturesque Eensgezind venue outside Durbanville, united a devoted network of supporters alongside the families whose lives the organisation has touched Operating nationwide, this remarkable non-profit has built its reputation on bridging critical gaps in emotional support for families navigating the complex journey of raising children with special needs, a path that can often feel isolating and overwhelming for parents

EMO

ADAMS AND PETER G STAR AT DANIEL AND FRIENDS ANNUAL GALA

Though raising funds was essential, the event evolved beyond its monetary aims to become a powerful tribute to courage and strength

The evening's entertainment began with magician Peter G, whose comedic magic show set a lighthearted tone

The highlight arrived when beloved South African entertainer Emo Adams commanded the stage, delivering a performance that had the entire audience tapping their feet Guiding the evening's proceedings was celebrity doctor

Darren Green, who served as master of ceremonies

WHYTHISMATTERS

For families with special needs children, events like Friday's gala is a reminder that their struggles are seen

Founding member and director Lianie le Roux addressed the audience saying that no parents ever expect that their child would be born with a rare disease or other special need while pregnant

"You think this would never happen to you, and are not at all prepared if it does," she said Le Roux stressed that every cent of the money raised go toward the children, be it special equipment or family outings Annual activities hosted by Daniel and Friends Fund throughout the year include a visit to Bugz playpark, a nappy walk and Christmas party with the highlight being the Different is Cool fashion show where the children get the opportunity to take to the catwalk

Co-founder and director Kate Laurie added that the most important thing to remember about Daniel and Friends is that the founding of the organisation was a very personal journey for her and Le Roux, as they both lost their children Daniel and Marielé to rare illnesses in one week, having met each other in the hospital ward

The fund was started in January 2014 in remembrance of Daniel and Marielé

"Something good had to come from all the sadness," Laurie reflected

"As we got talking we pondered on what we missed as parents to special needs children It was a supportive close knit community of parents going through the same thing Someone you can phone late at night when you are emotionally distraught "

A meaningful encounter during a medical emergency marked the beginning of Michelle Phillips' journey to becoming co-director of the organisation, when she first met Le Roux while Daniel was her patient during an ICU ambulance transport to the Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital

"To work with every single person in this organisation

fills my cup every single day," Phillips reflected In a deeply moving address, parents Tamara Yates-Butler and Molly Dube-Kachukiwa shared their transformative journey with the fund, speaking from the unique perspective of mothers navigating the challenges of raising children with special needs Yates-Butler, mother to one child with cerebral palsy and another with autism, alongside Dube-Kachukiwa, who has a child with Down syndrome and another with autism, offered heartfelt testimony about the organisation s impact on their families "I don't know where I would have been without them and what we would have done," Yates-Butler reflected Dube-Kachukiwa echoed this sentiment, adding: "This organisation has given us a voice, a space for our children to shine "

DieWoordwewerssluithuljaaraf

Die Kaapse Woordwewers het op Saterdag 15 November by die DNA Cafe vir hul laaste gedigtedag van die jaar bymekaargekom.

Samuel Theron, stigter, het die dag geopen en Patricia Scholtz genooi om die verwelkoming te doen

"Dit was 'n vreugde om bekende gesigte en nuwes te groet almal verenig deur 'n liefde vir die digkuns Ons het ook vir 'n oomblik stilgeraak om diegene wat weens siekte, afstand of die lewe se onverwagse draaie nie by ons kon aansluit nie elkeen se afwesigheid word gevoel in n vriendekring soos hierdie," sê Scholtz

Die afgelope jaar was vol uitdagings vir baie emosioneeel, fisiek, geldelik, en meer Tog het mense telkens opgedaag en hul uitdagings in woorde geskets

By die laaste bymekaarkoms was daar weer eens 'n tapisserie van stemme, elk met hul eie tekstuur en waarheid "Elkeen wat vorentoe tree bied meer as net hul woorde hulle bied 'n deel van hul hart in die hoop dat dit 'n ander se hart sal aanraak," sê Scholtz

INSIGTE

LAASTE GEDIGTEDAG

Kalin le Roux het in haar gedig “Môre is nog ‘n dag” verwys na hoe woorde soms moeilik kom

Ashlene Jeftha het 'n roerende huldeblyk verwoord in "Poem to my mother”, wat spreek van rou en aanvaarding

Graham Benn se "Self-loading" het gehandel oor geskiedenis, identiteit en die hoop op 'n beter toekoms

Evelina Fluks het in “Jy is genoeg” geskryf oor gevoelens van

minderwaardigheid en identiteit in geloof

Lehahn Swanepoel het in “Doing Oral” humoristies kritiek uitgespreek oor leierskap en leë retoriek

Mariechen Ockhuis se “Stout hart” het gehandel oor die seer en ontnugtering oor ’n verhouding wat verbrokkel het En die vraag: “Was ek nie genoeg nie?” Die gehoor is meegevoer deur die emosie wat die digter oorgedra het, sê Scholtz

John Pietersen se “Agteros” was n lighartige verwysing na swaarkry en mense wat op jou neerkyk, maar met die positiewe vooruitsig: “Agteros kom ook in

die kraal ” Scholtz se gedig “Vriendskap” gaan oor die verlies van ’n lewende vriendskap "Al was my vriendin ernstig siek, was dit nie die dood nie maar stilte wat ons band beëindig het ’n Onsienbare totsiens sonder verduideliking of afsluiting " Theron het in “Die dood” die onderwerp aangeraak wat almal vermy totdat dit hulle in die gesig staar Die Kaapse Woordwewers het almal bedank wat bygedra en hul gedigte gedeel het die afgelope jaar en sien uit na nog nuwe stemme en vars stories volgende jaar

Diemersdalwengesogtewynprys

Die Diemersdal-wynlandgoed in Durbanville, een van Suid-Afrika se mees historiese en bekroonde wynplase, is as Wynmakery van die Jaar in die Platter-gids vir Suid-Afrikaanse Wyne 2026 aangewys.

Dit was nadat die landgoed ’n ongekende ses vyfstertoekennings vir beide rooi- en witwyne ontvang het

Vir ’n landgoed wat in 1698 gestig is en waarop die Louwfamilie sedert 1885 boer, is hierdie eer ’n mylpaal wat gevorm is deur eeue van kontinuïteit, droëlandboerdery en Durbanville se kenmerkende koelklimaat-terroir

“Ons het die voorreg gehad om oor die afgelope paar dekades talle pryse, eerbewyse en topgraderings vir ons wyne te ontvang,” sê Thys Louw, die sesde-generasie eienaar en wynmaker, “maar ’n PlatterWynprodusent van die Jaar moet as een van die heel hoogste erkennings vir die gehalte van ons wyne en die Diemersdal-span se onwrikbare toewyding aan uitnemendheid beskou word ”

Die Platter-toekennings volg ná die beoordeling van meer as 8000 wyne, wat deur meer as 900 produsente ingeskryf is en waarvan 316 wyne vyfstergraderings (95 punte en hoër) ontvang het

Vanjaar se Platter-erkenning vier Diemersdal se bestendigheid en uitnemendheid oor style en variëteite heen

Die landgoed se ses vyfster-

Philip van Zyl (regs),die redakteur van die Platterwyngids,oorhandig die Redakteur se Wynmakery van die Jaar-toekenning aan Chris Alheit van Alheit Vineyards.

wyne is:

WYNMAKERY VAN DIE JAAR IN DIE ‘PLATTER’-GIDS

. Diemersdal Pinotage Reserve 2024

. Diemersdal The Journal Pinotage 2023

. Diemersdal Private Collection 2023

. Diemersdal The Journal Sauvignon Blanc 2024

. Diemersdal The Globe Sauvignon Blanc 2024

. Diemersdal Winter Ferment Sauvignon Blanc 2025

SELDSAMEPRESTASIE

Hierdie prestasie is ’n seldsaamheid in die SuidAfrikaanse wynbedryf en weerspieël tegniese uitnemendheid, ’n diep, instinktiewe verbintenis met die grond en generasies van wynboerdery “Diemersdal se sukses kan nie losgemaak word van sy ligging nie,” sê Louw “Voordat ons Diemersdal is, is ons Durbanville – ’n streek wat nog altyd bepaal het wie ons as wynplaas is ”

Die Durbanville-streek is ’n maritieme wynstreek buite

Kaapstad, bekend vir lang rypwordseisoene, briese van die Atlantiese Oseaan se kant af en grond afkomstig van oeroue graniet en skalie Hierdie kombinasie lewer wyne met natuurlike varsheid, suiwerheid en kompleksiteit – kenmerke wat Diemersdal se styl duidelik definieer

Een van die landgoed se kernonderskeidings is sy verbintenis tot droëlandwingerde In ’n tyd waarin die meeste Kaapse wingerde sterk op besproeiing steun, weier Diemersdal om te besproei en laat die wingerde gedurende hul seisoenale groeisiklus uitsluitlik op reënval staatmaak Hierdie benadering lei tot bessies van intensiteit en karakter –vrugte wat die landskap met kompromislose helderheid uitdruk

“Die wingerd moet sy plek op aarde aanvoel,” sê Louw “Droëlandboerdery beperk jou opsies, sekerlik, maar dit slyp jou begrip van balans Die wingerd wys vir jou presies wat

Die Nuwelingwynmakery van die Jaartoekenning word deur

Philip van Zyl (links), die redakteur van die Platter-gids,aan Selma Willemse (middel) en Adi Badenhorst van The Saldanha Wine & Spirit Co oorhandig

die seisoen gee, en ons probeer inmenging tot die minimum beperk, sodat die terroir optimaal na vore kan kom ” Hierdie filosofie weerspieël in die landgoed se pryswennerwynreeks, veral sy kenmerkende sauvignon blancs – van die presisiegedrewe The Globe Sauvignon Blanc, verouder in glashouers, tot die ryk, tekstuurryke The Journal en die vernuwende Winter Ferment, een van die oorspronklikste moderne uitdrukkings van hierdie variëteit in die Kaap

DIEPMENSLIKETERROIR

“Terroir word dikwels net in terme van grond en klimaat beskryf, maar Diemersdal se prestasie weerspieël ook ’n diep menslike terroir,” sê Louw “Sedert 1885 het ses geslagte van die Louw-familie hierdie grond bewerk – elkeen het kennis, instink en vakmanskap oorgedra Daardie kontinuïteit is skaars in die Suid-Afrikaanse wynwêreld en vorm ’n ononderbroke ketting van insig wat die landgoed se

ontwikkeling onderlê ”

Die landgoed se rooiwyne verpersoonlik die verfyning wat uit meer as vyf dekades se vertroudheid met dié variëteit spruit

By Diemersdal is Pinotage nooit as ’n nuuskierigheid behandel nie; dit word met respek, erns en ’n soeke na finesse benader

Die resultaat is wyne met diepte sonder swaarheid, struktuur sonder strengheid en ’n duidelike koelklimaat-profiel

“Ek het by my pa en oupa geleer dat jy nooit as wynboer ‘arriveer’ nie,” sê Louw “Elke seisoen leer jou iets en elke generasie moet sy klein stukkie begrip bydra Wat jy erf, is slegs die beginpunt ”

Wat Diemersdal se Platterprestasie vir 2026 onderskei, is die omvang van sy uitnemendheid – ’n gelyktydige meesterskap van gestruktureerde rooiwyne, klassieke sauvignon blancs en grensverskuiwende witwynmaak Die Private Collection Reserve 2023, ’n Bordeaux-geïnspireerde mengsel, toon die landgoed se vermoë om wyne van proporsie en elegansie te maak, gedryf deur vrugtesuiwerheid en gedissiplineerde tannienhantering

Om as Wynmakery van die Jaar aangewys te word, is meer as net ’n toekenning “Die eer erken die landgoed se eeue oue verbintenis tot sy grond, en die kontinuïteit van ’n familie wie se identiteit verweef is met die plaas se grond, seisoene en kelder,” sê Louw

I am trying to be gentler with myself...

We all want to belong From the moment we take our first steps into school, society teaches us that our worth is tied to achievement, to being someone, doing something, building something We grow in years, in experience, in titles Somewhere along the way that hunger for belonging becomes tangled with the need to feel enough through what we do or produce

I have come to realise that I'm married to work Not in the romantic sense, but in the way it occupies my thoughts, dictates my moods and defines my sense of worth For many of us this relationship starts innocently We pour ourselves into our studies, our first jobs and the careers that follow We tell ourselves it is ambition, that this is what success looks like Then life shifts From my observation the children one raises grow into their own people The career ladder one has climbed so relentlessly begins to feel less like an ascent and more like a treadmill One morning one wakes up and wonders who one is outside of one's job title, outside the roles one has played so diligently for years

..

SOMEWHEREALONGTHEWAY THATHUNGERFORBELONGING BECOMESTANGLEDWITHTHE

BRIEWE|LETTERS

Subraadvoorsitter gee oorsig

Subraad 14 het 'n baie bedrywige 2025 beleef

Wanneer ek deur die dagboek blaai, staan die volgende hoogtepunte uit:

. 'n Ontmoeting met die uitvoerende burgemeester en sy volle burgemeesterkomitee om aangeleenthede rondom dienslewering in die subraad te bespreek;

. Verskeie vergaderings met en besoeke deur burgemeesterkomiteelede aan die subraad om sake rakende paaie en water en sanitasie te bespreek; . 'n Dag lange besoek deur Francine Higham burgemeesterkomiteelid, om die onderskeie sportfasiliteite binne die grense van Subraad 14 te besigtig;

. Interaksie met Carl Pophaim, burgemeesterkomit lid l th d t lik d t

I see it all around me Friends who feel lost when they are not working Parents who struggle to rest because they do not know who they are beyond their families

Colleagues who measure their worth by their productivity And I see it in myself too I often say I am married to my work, half as a joke, half as a confession Work gives me purpose and stability It keeps me focused But it also keeps me busy enough not to think too much about the deeper, messier parts of life

That is the danger, I think , when we start confusing doing with being When our sense of worth is tied to what we do rather than who we are

My generation was raised in a world that celebrates hustle and glorifies busyness We were told to dream big, work harder and never settle I do not want to wake up one day and realise that I built my life entirely around my work, that I poured so much into becoming someone that I forgot simply how to be Work, like parenthood, can be a beautiful calling It gives purpose, structure and sometimes even meaning But it can also become a hiding place , a convenient distraction from the quieter work of being human There is safety in emails, meetings and deadlines There is clarity in schedules and targets The messiness of inner life, loneliness, grief, uncertainty, can always wait for later

Except "later" always comes It comes when the office lights dim and the house is quiet It comes when promotions lose their thrill, when children leave home or when one's body reminds one it has limits even when one's will does not It comes when one finally has time and the silence asks "Who are you now?"

I do not have the balance figured out yet, far from it But I am beginning to understand I cannot keep defining myself by what I do So I am trying Trying to be gentler with myself Trying to measure my days not by how much I achieve, but by how present I am Because when the noise fades and the accolades mean less what will matter most is whether I still recognise myself Whether I can belong to me, not to my work, not to anyone else, but to the quiet truth of who I am becoming -NAMHLAMONAKALI

is verwelkom en ontplooi;

. Openbare vergaderings het in al sewe wyke plaasgevind waartydens die konsepbegroting en IOP vir die 2025-'26-boekjaar bespreek is;

. Subraad 14 het ook ses openbare vergaderings gehou, waar Tertuis Simmers, provinsiale minister van infrastruktuur, die beoogde Welmoed-behuisingsprojek met inwoners bespreek het;

. Verskeie wykskomiteevergaderings het ook in die onderskeie wyke plaasgevind;

. Die Bet-El-skool ontvang die Civic Pride-toekenning van die burgemeester;

. Nosivatho Mkhize, die nuwe subraadbestuurder van S b d 14 i lk

Coastal bird flu threat puts pets at risk

I walk my dog along the beach most nights and am increasingly worried about the ongoing bird flu affecting seabirds on our coastline

The virus has led to several bird deaths recently and I fear the risk of encountering an infected bird during my walks This is not only heartbreaking for our wildlife but also poses a potential danger to pets and their owners I urge fellow dog walkers and pet owners to stay vigilant, avoid contact with any sick or dead birds, and report sightings to local authorities Protecting our pets and preserving our coastal ecosystem must be a community priority WORRIED, Melkbosstrand

Vissersgemeenskappe sterf almal uit

Ek wou nou al ` n geruime tyd hierdie vraag voor die deur van die DA, die Wes-Kaapse regering en die nasionale regering lê

Die Kaap is baie bekend vir sy viswaters en ek het familie wat aan die Weskus bly

Elke keer as ek vir hulle gaan kuier, vra ek hulle of daar nie vars vis te koop is by n hawe daar naby nie of 'n varsviswinkel op een van die dorpe nie Hul antwoord is: “Nee Nie eens die plaaslike winkels het vars vis nie; alles is die boksies bevore vis van natuurlik die groot vismaatskappye ” Hoe is dit moontlik? Die Weskus was vissersdorpe en gemeenskappe het hul bestaan daaruit gemaak Het die Wes-Kaapse regering of die nasionale regering die vissersgemeenskappe se regte verkoop aan groot korporatiewe maatskappye? Het die regerings dalk n

‘Ulwaluko’: A journey

finansiële belang in die maatskappye?

Doen n bietjie navorsing oor wat in Somalië se oseane gebeur het en hoe die waters leeg gevang is en dit op die ou einde gelei het tot moderne seerowers Dit is n skande dat Suid-Afrika se mense en veral kusdorpe se mense nou ten duurste moet betaal vir gevriesde vis wat op hul agterstoep uitgewis word deur groot maatskappye en hul staatsborge wat bakhand staan vir hul aandele Ek het gaan Google "Why are there no more West Coast fisherman's villages?" Julle sal geskok wees oor waarop julle afkom Weer eens: die regerings tree nie op in die gemeenskap se belang nie, net soos met baie ander belange en ons en die hengelgemeenskap ly daar onder MAAK WK SE VISSERSGEMEENSKAPPE SAAK? E-pos

Kuilsrivier word plakkersdorp

Dit is baie frustrerend om te sien hoe die Soneike-Kuilsrivier-kanaal langs die Netcare-hospitaal besig is om in 'n plakkersdorpie te ontaard

Wat kommerwekkend is van die Stad Kaapstad, is dat my talle klagtes van 2018 tot op hede om die plakkers te verwyder, nie aandag geniet nie Hierdie plakkerprobleem hou 'n brand-, gesondheids- en veiligheidsgevaar in vir die inwoners wat in die nabyheid bly Kuilsrivier, eens 'n mooi dorpie, word stadig maar seker 'n plakkersdorpie JJ CLOETE, Soneike

to manhood, a call for community understanding

When the summer season draws to a close, many communities across South Africa will welcome back young men who have undergone Ulwaluko the traditional Xhosa initiation rite This sacred custom, also practised in various forms by other African communities, marks a boy’s transition to manhood With initiates returning to schools and workplaces in the new year, fostering informed understanding and tolerance within our diverse neighbourhoods is paramount Ulwaluko is a profound cultural and spiritual journey where boys are secluded in the mountains or designated initiation schools Under the guidance of elders, they are taught the core responsibilities, values,

and secrets of manhood within their culture These lessons emphasise respect, discipline, and the weight of future roles as husbands fathers and community leaders The process is a deeply respected cornerstone of identity for millions The culmination of this journey is the homecoming, a vibrant and celebratory event

These celebrations are not private affairs; they are community-wide, often spilling into streets with singing, dancing, and the distinctive red clay on the faces of amakrwala (new men) This is where the wider community’s role becomes crucial Neighbours from all racial and cultural backgrounds may witness or be invited to these open celebrations Understanding the context transforms these events

from mere noise to a meaningful welcome The visible signs, the new clothes, the subdued demeanour of the initiates the jubilant families are not just spectacle but symbols of a significant personal and cultural achievement

By seeking to understand Ulwaluko, diverse communities do more than just tolerate; they actively participate in a supportive social fabric This awareness fosters empathy, dispels curiosity born of ignorance, and allows everyone to share in the joy of a family and a culture As these young men return, empowered and transformed, a welcoming and informed community is the final, essential step in honouring their journey FEZEKILE COTANI, Soneike, Kuils River

Supercrossactioncomingtocity

The world's top supercross riders will descend on Cape Town for the ultimate showdown as the FIM World Supercross Championship crowns its 2025 world champions at DHL Stadium on Saturday 13 December

After a gruelling global calendar that has taken the championship through Buenos Aires, Vancouver, the Gold Coast and Stockholm, the seasonlong quest for glory will reach its climax in the Mother City A night of high-stakes racing between the strongest field in the championship's history will determine the SX1, SX2 and Team World Champions

The SX1 class promises fierce competition as championship contenders Ken Roczen, Jason

Anderson, Joey Savatgy and Christian Craig have battled for crucial championship points all season heading into the finale

In the SX2 division, reigning champion Shane McElrath faces a tough fight to defend his crown against a relentless field that includes key challengers Max Anstie and Enzo Lopes

ATMOSPHERE

"Cape Town is the perfect location for our season finale," said Tom Burwell, CEO of World Supercross "The intensity of the title hunt, combined with the

phenomenal atmosphere of the DHL Stadium, guarantees an unforgettable night The riders, teams and fans are all ready to see who has what it takes to be crowned the 2025 World Champion " Tony Feldman, Director at Showtime Management, emphasised the significance of bringing world-class supercross to South African shores "The quality of racing for the World Supercross Championship finale in Cape Town will be nothing like South African fans have ever seen before To have the world's best riders descend upon DHL Stadium to decide the champions of the world will be a spectacular moment and a fitting climax to the global series," Feldman said The South African GP will

feature comprehensive ticket packages catering to all fans, including designated family zones, general admission, premium seating and hospitality options

Tickets and further information are available at www showtime

SpeakMathsto winbigprizes

Learners across the Western Cape have the opportunity to win library resources worth R35 000 for their school through a competition that explores the connection between mathematics and language.

Following International School Library Month in October, the Western Cape Education Department has launched its annual School Library Competition, challenging learners to demonstrate how "Maths is a language" under this year's theme: "Do you speak Maths?"

The competition aims to address a common stumbling block for learners word problems in mathematics assessments by highlighting how mathematical and linguistic skills work together to support learning across all subjects

WIN UP TO R35 000 WORTH OF LIBRARY RESOURCES

CATEGORIES

Learners in Grades 4 to 12 may submit poetry entries, whilst younger learners in Grades 1 to 3 can participate through poster or drawing competitions

Prizes will be awarded across three languages English, Afrikaans, and Xhosa with separate recognition for primary and high schools A special prize category has also been established for special schools submitting poster or drawing entries Schools will receive comprehensive entry guidelines and the competition will close on Friday 12 December The education department is encouraging all learners to speak with their schools about participation

cock mantis shrimps ub-shaped forelimbs nd even shatter glass.

s Aquarium today

Time to expand? Know your real costs

Does this sound familiar? Your home office has taken over the dining room,the children need more space to play,and you're constantly tripping over each other

You're not alone – many families are feeling the squeeze and wondering whether it's time to expand.

But here's the big question: should you go for a traditional brick extension or opt for one of those trendy modern sunrooms?

THEMONEYTALK: WHATWILLITACTUALLYCOSTYOU?

Let's be honest about budgets.

According to Claude McKirby from Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty, home extensions are smart

investments if you do them right

"It's all about balancing what you need now with what makes financial sense long-term," says McKirby

SUNROOMS: THEQUICKANDAFFORDABLEOPTION

Remember those old-school conservatories that were freezing in winter and boiling in summer? Today's sunrooms are nothing like that They're properly insulated, designed for our climate, and won't leave you sweating or shivering

The numbers? You're looking at anywhere from R80 000 for a basic small

sunroom up to R350 000 for a decent medium-sized one

Want all the bells and whistles automated louvers, solid roofs, the works? That could push you towards R800 000

The best part? Once you've sorted out municipal approvals (if you need them), your new room could be ready in just three to eight weeks.

"Most sunrooms come as kits that are put together on-site, so there's way less mess and disruption for your family," McKirby explains.

BRICKEXTENSIONS: THETRADITIONALROUTE

Want a room that looks like it's always been part of your house? Brick is still king for bedrooms, home theatres, or kitchen expansions

But it comes with a bigger price tag. Basic single-storey extensions start around R250 000, with most projects falling between R400 000 and R800 000

Go fancy with high-end finishes or complex structural work, and you could easily hit R1,2 million or more

Time-wise, you're looking at minimum three months from start to finish often longer And yes, there will be noise, dust, and general chaos.

"It's definitely more invasive, so you need patience," warns McKirby

WHICHOPTIONGIVESYOUTHEBEST BANGFORYOURBUCK?

Right now, McKirby reckons sunrooms are winning the investment game

"South Africans love that indoor-outdoor lifestyle, and a well-done sunroom really captures that For a family room that brings in lots of light and connects you to your garden, it's often the smart choice."

But if you absolutely need a room that seamlessly blends with your existing house think matching bricks, integrated design then traditional brick building is your only option.

MAKINGYOURNEWSPACEWORK

. Keep it comfortable: For sunrooms especially, invest in proper blinds and make sure you've got enough ventilation.

THEBOTTOMLINE

"A good extension improves your family's daily life while adding real value to your property," says McKirby Need help with municipal approvals or finding reputable contractors? Contact your local councillor's office or check with neighbours who've recently done extensions.

Whatever you choose, how you design the interior will make or break the space Nobody wants another room that just collects clutter Smart design tips: . Zone it right: Use rugs and furniture to create different areas lounging here, dining there, maybe a work corner . Storage is everything: Built-ins, storage ottomans, banquette seating with hidden storage anything to keep the mess under control.

MOTHER CITY TO HOST KNOX LEGACY SERIES

MMAstars clashsoon

Fans of the extreme fighter Dricus du Plessis will be pleased to hear that the Mother City will be playing host to the Knox Legacy Series a world-class mixed martial arts (MMA) event early next year

This announcement was made during a special press conference in Sea Point on Monday 17 November Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis was also in attendance when the City of Cape Town, Knox Hydrate and the Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC) on Monday formally announced the launch of the series

The Knox Legacy Series is set to take place at the GrandWest Arena in Goodwood on Thursday 26 February 2026

The event will see Cape Town’s best MMA athletes take on elite challengers from across the globe, bringing a true international showdown to one of the world’s most iconic cities, the organisers say Du Plessis, co-founder of Knox Hydrate and South Africa’s first UFC champion, also shared a few words at the launch "This is not me doing this, this is me doing this alongside the EFC that has invested in this sport since I was 14 years, or 15 years old " Cairo Howarth, EFC president, confirmed that the Knox Legacy Series will open the

du Plessis and Cairo Howarth,EFC president

TOP MMA FIGHTERS TO COMPETE AGAINST INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGERS

EFC’s 2026 calendar The five Cape Town athletes who will also compete are Luke Michael, Faeez Jacobs, Terence Balelo, Tumelo Manyamala and Adrian Sanchez, with their international opponents to be revealed soon

Jerome Steyn,Eduardo Cleophas,wenners van derdes vir 2024 en 2025,Hailie Lakay,vroue-ligawenners 2025,Stanley Kearns en Alphadine Fortuin van Elsiesrivier-rugbyklub het dit bygewoon

WP-rugby vereer klubs en administrateurs

Die WP-rugybunie het op Woensdag 19 November sy bekeruitdeling by Kelvin Grove in Nuweland gehou en spanne uit TygerBurger se verspreidingsgebied het met van die bekers weggestap

Nie net klubs is vereer nie, maar wyle Grant Albertyn van die Kuilsrivierrugbyklub en Neels du Toit van Helderberg in Somerset-Wes, en skeidsregters is ook vereer

Kraaifontein se tweedespan en derdespan is vanjaar Superliga B-kampioene Van links staan Johan Bullock,Lance Snyders, Ricardo van Balla en PJ West met die bekers

Warrick Gelant,Stormers-heelagter, oorhandig hier die beker aan Victor Thomas van Kraaifontein,afrigter van Van der Stel-Evergreens se vroue,wat die seisoen onoorwonne afgesluit het.VDE se vroue het in die eindstryd op

Brackenfell verloor