For an opportunity to meet and greet with their newly elected Ward 90 councillor Renate van Onselen, the Craigpark Residents Association (CRA) hosted a tea and talk session on February 11.

The event, held at the Wesleyan Church Hall, offered residents the opportunity to engage with the new councillor in open discussion about community issues, drawing in more than 50 attendees and creating a welcoming space for conversation, connection, and civic engagement.

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The hall buzzed with lively exchanges as neighbours gathered over tea and cake, raising concerns about service delivery, infrastructure challenges, and the future of Johannesburg. Van Onselen addressed these issues candidly, outlining her role as councillor and emphasising the importance of accountability, communication, and active citizen involvement.

She explained that, while councillors can’t resolve every issue, especially complex ones such as power outages or water disruptions, they are vital for escalating concerns through official channels.

Residents are encouraged to report problems promptly, and use reference numbers for better tracking. Van Onselen emphasised community participation, sharing examples of how residents’ involvement can drive meaningful change and foster partnerships with local leadership.

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Looking ahead to the upcoming local government elections, she urged residents to check their voter registration details, understand the voting process, and recognise the power of their vote in shaping the city’s direction. Plans are underway to assist residents with registration queries, alongside continued engagement initiatives across Ward 90.

Professor Bruce Sparks, from the CRA, said the event was well attended and sparked thoughtful discussion. He noted the strong interest in understanding voting procedures and confirmed that the association would circulate the councillor’s contact details and relevant information to residents.

Beyond addressing challenges, the gathering fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose. As conversations flowed and neighbours connected, the morning underscored the value of community-driven dialogue in building a stronger, more engaged suburb.

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