Founder of Dads in the Picture inspire people at Famsa meeting
Fathers in children's lives are important says Famsa
SECUNDA – Families South Africa (Famsa) held its annual general meeting on Friday, 30 August at the Kruik Church and discussed the role of a father in a child’s life.
Ms Santa Vermaak (chairman of Famsa) welcomed the guests and opened with a Scripture and quoted Psalm 127:3-5 that reads: ‘Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward.
‘Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate.’
Ms Vermaak commended Ms Marcelle Bester (director at Famsa) and Ms Karlien Bierman (administrator at Famsa) for their service of 10 years at Famsa, and Capt Lizzie Koekemoer of the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offence Unit of the police, for her 36 years of service.
The auditor, Mr Pieter Pretorius, gave Famsa a clean audit report.
Ms Bester said it was a rather good year for Famsa and she was happy to celebrate such long service awards.
The guest speaker, Mr Meshack Kekana, founder and director of a non-profit organisation, Dads in the Picture, said he has a vision to see every man take responsibility for the upbringing of children in a safe environment.
“Who influence a small child to decide on what to eat and what to wear?” asked Mr Kekana.
“The culture and people around them influences them, like the parents and if the parents do not to it, the people on the street or the television will.
“It is all about influence. We have a responsibility to influence our children and show them the way.”
Mr Kekana believes the vision to form Dads in the Picture, was given to him by God in 2013.
He said a man’s role can be defined as that of a nurturer, a provider and a protector.
“The father needs to go beyond his wallet and not only support his child financially, otherwise the neighbour or television will teach your children other things.”
Mr Kekana’s organisation focuses on doing outdoor activities with boys and men such as camping, picnics, braais and hiking trips.
During these events, the men and boys have the chance to share their knowledge and discuss their roles.
Mr Kekana ended his speech with the quote: ‘Dear Father, to your child you are as good as your last promise.’
