Long-standing community activist Queenie Thompson has been recognised for her decades of dedication to the residents of Forestdale.

At a recent Women’s Day event hosted by the Dundee Malibongwe Senior Citizens Cohesion NPC, Queenie was presented with a certificate of recognition for her service to the community. The event, attended by Mayor Mcebo Mkhize, also paid tribute to women stalwarts of the past.

Malibongwe, a registered NPO founded by Queenie last year, has become a vital platform addressing housing, service delivery and social issues in the area.

Born and raised in Dundee, Queenie attended the then Dundee Junior Secondary School, known at the time as the Coloured School. Her dream of becoming a nurse could not be realised due to the lack of bursaries and grants. “I have always had a passion for people, especially the downtrodden,” she reflected.

After working in retail and furniture stores, Queenie turned to activism, determined to ensure that Forestdale residents were not left behind after democracy. She played a key role in ensuring that 217 RDP homes were allocated to the right beneficiaries, although some were still misallocated. “I did not even get a home myself and I still rent. But I carry on regardless,” she said.

Through Malibongwe, she continues to assist with water, street lighting and indigent applications, while raising sponsorships for school uniforms, food and awareness campaigns. “We try to do something every month – Autism Awareness, Mother’s Day, Youth Day and most recently, Women’s Day,” she explained.

Looking ahead, Queenie hopes to improve Forestdale’s neglected sports facilities and drive skills development initiatives. She also serves on the Community Policing Forum, where she raises concerns about the prevalence of drugs.

One of her greatest frustrations is the multipurpose centre built in Forestdale more than four years ago, which remains locked and unused. “Mayor Mkhize said at our Women’s Day event that he will probe this further. Our residents need this facility,” she stressed.

Queenie also thanked local businesses and supporters – including Pick n Pay, Dr Masondo, Boxer, Khan’s Décor, Orange Grove, OK, Councillor Shelembe and Mr Ngema – for backing Malibongwe’s Women’s Day celebration.

“For now, I will continue doing what I can for the people of Forestdale,” she said. “This community is my home, and my heart is with it.”

HAVE YOUR SAY: Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram or email us at dundee.courier@caxton.co.za. Add us on WhatsApp 071 277 1394.