When you learn, teach. When you get, give.” – Maya Angelou
Johannesburg, December 2024 – Hamba Bamba Funda (HBF) successfully hosted its inaugural Christmas Care event, a celebration that captured the true spirit of giving, learning, and community. Held at the Meadowlands Welfare Centre in Soweto in partnership with the City of Johannesburg, the Department of Health, and Social Development and Environmental Health, the event brought together 200 mothers and 200 babies for a day focused on health, development, and meaningful connections.
HBF’s commitment to empowering families took centre stage, offering practical tools and valuable knowledge to ensure every child has the best start in life. This festive gathering was made even more special by Bundle Media, whose contributions ensured that every mother and baby received beautifully curated Christmas gift boxes.
A Day of Learning and Connection
The program featured a diverse lineup of presentations and activities:
- Health Education by the Department of Health
- Preventing Food Poisoning: Practical advice to keep children safe and healthy during the festive season.
- Awareness of Communicable Diseases: An engaging talk on the importance of immunization, with on-site immunization services provided.
- Gift Box Demonstration
- Representatives from the Department of Health demonstrated the contents of the gift boxes, offering parents essential safety tips and practical advice.
- Inspirational Talk by Flower Foundation
- Speaker: Pieter Van der Westhuizen
- Topic: The Jars of Hope Initiative, in collaboration with the University of Johannesburg’s Food Evolution and Research Laboratory, inspiring caregivers to create nutritious meals.
- Interactive Workshop
- Facilitator: Monja Boonzaier, Founder of Hamba Bamba Funda
- Focus:
- Practical techniques to foster meaningful parent-child interactions.
- Age-appropriate activities to promote emotional bonds and holistic development.
The workshop also included a heartfelt performance by a group of six children, showcasing the transformative impact of Hamba Bamba Funda’s work in empowering families.
A Special Guest Appearance
The event was honoured by the presence of Faith Mazibuko, MEC for Social Development, who delivered an inspiring and practical address to the audience. Opening with the cheerful song “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” her speech emphasized vigilance in caregiving and safeguarding children. She reminded parents to remain cautious about food safety and to always prioritize their children’s well-being.
A Festive Finale
The day concluded on a joyful note with the incredible energy of MC Fikele Poka from Heartlines, who led the attendees in singing “We Wish You a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
A Celebration of Giving and Learning
The Christmas Care event was more than just a festive gathering—it was a meaningful initiative to empower parents with knowledge, tools, and community support. HBF extends heartfelt gratitude to all collaborators and sponsors for making this day a resounding success.
From all of us at Hamba Bamba Funda, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
For more information about HBF and its initiatives, please contact:
Name: Monja Boonzaier
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0731929145
Website: www.hambabambafunda.org