Every weekday morning, laughter echoes through a hall in Riverside as a group of gogos gathers to sew, knit, sing, and share stories.

While the activities may seem simple, for many members of the Tshwarafa Oldies Club they have become a source of purpose, friendship, and healing.

The registered non-profit organisation was established in 2017 by Susan Mboniswa, after she realised many elderly residents, who had relocated from Diepsloot, were struggling with loneliness and isolation.

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Before moving to Riverside, Mboniswa was chairperson of the Vuka Uzenzele Social Group in Diepsloot. “When we moved here, it became difficult to travel back because taxis did not come this side. There were many gogos who had also relocated, so I decided to start our own group here instead.”

Today the organisation has three branches in Riverside and welcomes senior citizens every weekday from 10:00 to 14:00. The club offers far more than a place to socialise.

Members sew shopping bags, duvet covers, and clothing, knit garments, and participate in a choir. Their handmade products are sold for between R20 and R30, with the proceeds helping members buy bread and electricity, and pay for transport to medical appointments.

“We don’t ask for money. All we need is material so we can continue making our bags and other items.”

Physical activity also forms part of the club’s routine. Members start their mornings with exercise, such as taking walks, sometimes as far as Chartwell.

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“We believe it is important for gogos to get out of their homes, get fresh air, and relieve stress. When you stay alone for too long, you start overthinking and become lonely.

Many of us also carry the stress of looking after children and grandchildren, especially teenagers. Here, we can encourage one another, instead of carrying those burdens alone.”

Mboniswa said spending time together also contributes to better health.

“Many older people live with illnesses, but when we sit together, we share advice and support each other. If someone has swollen feet or another problem, we talk about what has helped us. We also work with social workers, lawyers, and South African Depression and Anxiety Group counsellors who guide difficult and sensitive issues.”

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The club regularly participates in choir competitions, giving members another opportunity to remain socially active and engaged.

The name, Tshwarafa, reflects the diversity of the group’s members. “It is a combination of languages spoken by our members, including Sotho, Tswana, and Venda, and it means unity and coming together.”

For gogo Anna Maimela, the club has become a second home.

“Before I joined, I spent most of my days alone at home. Now, I look forward to coming here every morning. We exercise, laugh, sing, and encourage one another.

This club keeps me active, and I feel happier because I know I am not facing life alone.”

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