With Father’s Day recently commemorated, Brakpan SAPS celebrated the men who carry the responsibility of fatherhood and make a difference in the lives of others at a black-and-blue themed event held in the hall of the NG Kerk Brakpan Moedergemeente on June 26.

The event, themed “Father, hold my hand,” was organised by Brakpan SAPS social crime prevention and communications officer Constable Audrey Buthelezi, with assistance from local Youth Crime Prevention Desk members.

In attendance were Brakpan SAPS Vispol commander Colonel Robert Makopo, Colonel Hilton Henstock of the support component, Captain Pieter Booysen of the Crime Information Management and Analysis Centre, Captain Godfrey Booysen (Employee Health and Wellness chaplain), EHW members, CPF chairperson Tinus Jordaan, Sector One CPF chairperson Simon Mabuse, Greater Brakpan Taxi Association representatives, Brakpan Ward 97 committee representatives, Brakpan SAPS Vispol and Vispol support members, stakeholders, and community members.

The programme was directed by Sergeant Maxwell Mabunda from the Ekurhuleni SAPS District office.
Captain Pieter Booysen opened the event with a prayer, followed by Buthelezi welcoming attendees and explaining the purpose of the gathering.

She highlighted that the event was aimed at honouring and appreciating fathers, father figures, and the important role paternal bonds play in society.

Buthelezi added that the occasion was dedicated to recognising the sacrifices, guidance, and contributions fathers make to their families and communities.

Fathers were advised, encouraged, and appreciated through motivational talks delivered by distinguished speakers including Cleo Bodibe-Lushaba, Mahlatse “Skudu” Makudubela, Zolile Bless, Mbali Motloung, and Lindo Sithole.

Bodibe-Lushaba is a director at the Gauteng Liquor Board, head of client relations management and liquor education directorate under the Department of Economic Development in the Gauteng Provincial Government, an author, advocate for men and boys, and motivational speaker.

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Makudubela is a professional footballer for Siwelele FC and a former player of Mamelodi Sundowns, Golden Arrows, Orlando Pirates, Young Africans (Tanzania), FC Gagra (Georgia), and other clubs.

Bless, from Wits RHI, coaches men openly living with HIV, supports men who are on HIV treatment, and assists those struggling to remain on treatment. Motloung is a principal practitioner, director, and founder of Mbali Wellness Concierge in Herlderwyk Estates.

She advocates for wellness by empowering communities through education and resilience. The final speaker was Sithole, who could not attend in person, but addressed fatherhood through a video presentation.

Known as Lin Dough, he is a South African musician, dancer, and songwriter popularly known for songs such as Ok’salayo and Halala.

A demonstration highlighting the generational cycle was also conducted. All men were asked to stand, and as different experiences involving fathers were mentioned, those who had experienced them were asked to sit down.

At the end of the emotional exercise, Sergeant Bongani Mahlangu raised his hand and told the audience that he had noticed one man who had remained standing throughout the activity.

He requested that all the men come closer and give him hugs.

Another exercise involved attendees signing a Father’s Day banner as a symbol of their commitment to being fathers who break negative generational cycles.

The banner carried the quote: “The heart of a father is the masterpiece of nature.”

Attendees enjoyed breakfast and lunch, received gifts, and most importantly, experienced appreciation and support.

Makopo thanked everyone who attended and praised the initiative. Sincere gratitude was expressed to all those who contributed towards making the event a success.

Special thanks were extended to Youth Crime Prevention Desk members, Mabunda, the NG Kerk, the motivational speakers, Empire Media, Strictly Smart Signs, and Old Mutual.