Duduza – Olwethu Day Care Centre (ODC) hosted a Father’s Day gala dinner on Luthuli Street in Duduza on June 19 under the theme “All Black with a Touch of White.”

The event featured performances, speeches, and role-play presentations by learners, while guest speakers highlighted the importance of equality and the celebration of fathers.

Day care founder, Mpho Sebiloane, said men are often overlooked and unfairly stereotyped as absent or uninvolved.

“Not all fathers are absent from their children’s lives. Some fully support and provide for their children,” said Sebiloane.

“I felt that fathers are rarely recognised or celebrated for their hard work, which is why this gala dinner was organised in their honour.”

Sebiloane added that the celebration also served as an opportunity to strengthen relationships between fathers, families and the day care centre, while recognising the role fathers play in the upbringing and development of children.

Despite the joyous occasion, Sebiloane said the day care centre needs support.

The centre is appealing for donations of food, toys and other resources, as well as assistance from community members and potential sponsors to help sustain its programmes and continue providing quality care for children.

Guest speaker Mpho Tsoari from Save the Children South Africa addressed parents and fathers on the importance of positive parenting and upholding children’s rights.

Tsoari explained that Save the Children South Africa is a rights-based organisation that advocates for and promotes children’s well-being.

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She said the organisation conducts workshops to equip parents and caregivers with the skills to raise children in a positive, nurturing environment.

“We encourage parents to practise positive parenting and to lead while also allowing themselves to be led by their children,” said Tsoari.

She explained that children learn through play and that parents should listen attentively to them, allow them to express themselves and involve them in simple decisions such as choosing meals or activities. Tsoari added that discipline should be used to teach rather than harm children.

“We teach parents about positive discipline instead of negative discipline. Children need to understand why they are being corrected and communication should come first,” she added.

She emphasised that punishment should never involve abuse, but should help children understand the consequences of their actions in a loving and respectful manner. For inquiries and donations, contact Sebiloane on 073 216 2649.