Fourways resident Bernadette Oeschger had always noticed a little yellowish building in Clay Oven as she drove past on her way through Fourways.

She’d wonder quietly to herself what went on inside, what the colourful fences were for, and who spent their days there. It wasn’t until she read a story ithe Fourways Review about New Beginnings Day Care, run by Zola Kupa, that she finally understood.

The centre was a safe haven for children living in an informal settlement, a place where they could play, learn, and just be kids, away from the challenges they faced every day.

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Reading the article gave Oeschger an idea, one she had been meaning to act on for a long time. She reached out to friends and colleagues, rallying support to bring a little joy and celebration to the children. On December 3, that idea became a magical reality: New Beginnings Day Care had its very first Christmas party and graduation ceremony.

“We were so blessed to have a generous sponsor, GAPROC Media,” said Kupa, “who joined hands with the centre to make the day special.”

The team arrived like superheroes. The men refurbished the jungle gym, making it safe, and adding swings and a slide, while the women worked with the children on festive Christmas crafts.

Then came a truly special moment: The centre’s first-ever graduation. Seven little graduates marched proudly, sang their hearts out, and celebrated an important milestone in their young lives.

Kupa expressed his heartfelt gratitude.

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“We are so thankful to everyone who made this day possible. The children are still so excited about the refurbished jungle gym, and we can see their happiness every day. Many of them will be starting school soon, some at Witkoppen Primary and others at Sefikeng Primary School, and this graduation marks the perfect start to their next chapter.”

Of course, no Christmas party is complete without Santa. Each child received a gift and a special lunch, and the air was filled with excitement, laughter, and countless renditions of: “Thank you, Santa!”

Oeschger shared that the centre’s food garden is coming along beautifully, and a rain-harvesting system will soon be installed, another step toward sustainability and self-sufficiency.

She said the day ended with hearts full of joy and gratitude, a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a huge difference.

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