New MOP manager returns to community work

MOTHER of Peace (MOP) in Lower Illovo has a new general manager, Iris Canham at the helm.

“My appointment came about after a needs analysis. As MOP is growing, someone is needed to co-ordinate projects and programmes in line with the organisation’s vision,” said Iris.

Having relocated from Johannesburg and now settled in Scottburgh, she took up her new post at the beginning of May.
Several projects are currently on the go, a hen-rearing project, tomato tunnels and a vegetable garden. The aim is to partner with the surrounding community to buy products such as eggs and vegetables from MOP. “We are also focused on skills development among our children. We have an in-house bakery, through which we are empowering our children to acquire the necessary experience, so one day they can become employable.”

Presently some 80 children call MOP home. An early childhood development class has a number of pupils, some from the community. A primary school from grade 1 to 4 also caters for children who live on the premises. Iris’s work with corporate social investment projects reconnected her with community work. “I realised I wasn’t living in line with my purpose, I was chasing a career, instead of following my heart.”

Her social consciousness and awareness has also resulted in her having published two books and she is working on a third book.

“I feel I am in the right place and I am enthusiastic about the future. So much has been done at MOP and there is so much more potential.” Iris intends to bring the community closer with MOP by holding open days for the public to interact with residents through planned activities. “I want our children to be seen as an inspiration, I want them to give motivational talks.”

In her spare time, Iris enjoys spending time with her eight-year-old daughter and the outdoors. “I enjoy nature and love animals.” Reading and writing are also among her hobbies.