Residents from Weltevreden Park and surrounding communities embraced the spirit of Mandela Day by attending a Wellness Day at NG Weltevreden church on Saturday, July 18, where about 300 people accessed free health screenings, wellness advice and blood donation services.

Hosted by Novo Futurum NPC, the event brought together healthcare professionals, non-profit organisations, local businesses and volunteers to make essential health services more accessible while encouraging residents to take a proactive approach to their wellbeing.

Visitors had access to free blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol screenings, hearing and vision tests, biokinetic assessments, dietetic advice and fitness demonstrations.

Many also donated blood through the South African National Blood Service, while others visited exhibitors including Spec-Savers, Arrie Nel Pharmacy, the Organ Donor Foundation of South Africa, Senior Moves, Medwell SA, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group, Discovery Vitality, Body Stress Release and Therapy Top Dogs. Local vendors showcased a variety of products, while the church’s coffee shop offered refreshments throughout the morning.

Novo Futurum public officer Saret Britz said the organisation was delighted by the community’s response.

“We are incredibly grateful for the wonderful support our Wellness Day received from the community. It was heartwarming to see families, senior citizens, young adults and children coming together to learn, connect and invest in their well-being,” she said.

Saret said the event, led by Alda Boer, the project manager at Novo Futurum and director of Care at NG Weltevreden, was made possible through months of planning and the commitment of volunteers, exhibitors and healthcare professionals.

“What stood out most was not only the excellent attendance, but also the spirit of kindness that filled the morning. People shared knowledge, offered encouragement and took the time to care for one another. That is at the heart of Novo Futurum’s mission: restoring dignity, one person at a time,” she said.

Speaking to the Roodepoort Northsider, resident Heidi Berrington-Smith said she attended because the event offered an opportunity to care for her own health while helping others.

“I felt this morning that it was important to pop into the church. It’s a community thing, and I live up the road, but they’ve offered such an all-round check-up and the opportunity to donate blood to help other people,” she said.

She added that she and her companion took full advantage of the services on offer.

“We’re having our eyes tested, we’re having a hearing test, we’re having a piece of cake from the coffee shop, and we’re hoping to go and donate blood just to help somebody else. They’ve helped us by giving us free screenings and free checks, so let’s give back.”

Saret said the success of the Wellness Day reaffirmed the importance of accessible, community-based wellness initiatives, and Novo Futurum hopes to host similar events in the future to continue promoting healthier, more connected communities.