It is not every day that a community gets to celebrate a century of life. Midrand was doubly blessed on April 10, as two beloved elderly women were honoured in separate but equally touching celebrations.

At Highveld Gardens Retirement Lodge, residents and staff gathered to celebrate Chris O’Sullivan’s 100th birthday, while in Ivory Park, the community came together at Nolukhanyo Creche to honour the life of 106-year-old Mamohale Tabane Mokhabuki in a long-overdue celebration.

Both celebrations, though held in different corners of Midrand, shared a common message of honouring life, legacy, and the importance of community in celebrating those who have witnessed a century and beyond.

Read more: Highveld Gardens honours resident with heart-warming 100th birthday celebration

Mokhabuki’s celebration was a community-driven tribute to a life that has spanned generations. Although her birthday had passed quietly, residents, ward committee members, and family stepped in to ensure her milestone did not go unrecognised.

Born in Ga-Sekgopo, Limpopo, Mokhabuki relocated to Ivory Park in 2021 to live with her family, who provide care as she struggles with her old age. On the day of the celebration, she was surrounded by loved ones, with contributions from the community.

Freedom Khumalo, a member of the ward committee, stated that a sense of responsibility and compassion inspired the initiative.

“We felt it was a need to hold this birthday celebration for her because, as the community, we saw that it was her birthday last month and she didn’t get to celebrate that milestone. She didn’t even have a cake, and that was not right. We then thought of this joint idea.”

Her granddaughter, Samantha Mabulana, said: “When we looked at our grandma, we thought not a lot of people actually get to her age, and that needs to be celebrated.

We would really like to thank everyone who helped and made sure it happened. Without them things were not going to be easy.”

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Meanwhile, at Highveld Gardens, a festive atmosphere filled the venue as O’Sullivan marked her 100th birthday surrounded by fellow residents and staff.

The celebration featured singing, dancing, and a special birthday cake, with staff members paying tribute to her century-long journey with warmth and admiration.

Lodge manager Pulane Motlafi described the occasion as both rare and inspiring. “Celebrating a 100-year birthday is something truly special. It is not an age that people simply reach.”

Motlafi added that O’Sullivan’s milestone serves as a reminder of the beauty and possibility of a long life. “In today’s world, it is not common for our mothers and grandmothers to reach such an age. It is a blessing to celebrate her 100 years with us. It gives us hope.”

Reflecting on longevity, Motlafi said that a combination of upbringing, lifestyle, and personal well-being may play a role.

“The secret may lie in how one is raised, what they eat, and how they carry themselves throughout life.”

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