Etta’s Healing Hearts Foundation named finalist in SA Heroes Awards 2025
Founded by mental health nurse Hendrietta Vorster-Mbontsi, the Ormonde-based foundation is recognised for its work in mental health advocacy, education, and support for women and children.
The Etta’s Healing Hearts Foundation in Ormonde has been nominated for a SA Heroes Award 2025 in the community health category.
The foundation was founded two years ago by Hendrietta (Etta) Vorster-Mbontsi, a passionate and dedicated mental health nurse with 18 years of experience in the field.
She holds a Master’s Degree in mental health nursing and was a PhD candidate in the same field.
With her commitment to mental health awareness and community upliftment, Etta established the foundation to create safe spaces, raise awareness and provide much-needed support for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. Besides mental health awareness, the foundation assists underprivileged women and children with supplies they need.
Since its inception, the foundation has been actively involved in schools, communities and outreach programmes, focusing on mental health education, suicide prevention and empowering young people with knowledge and resources to take care of their mental well-being.
“We are nominated and now a finalist in the prestigious SA Heroes Awards 2025 in the community health category, which is an honour. This recognition shines a light on the importance of mental health advocacy in SA and celebrates the work of ordinary people to make extraordinary differences in their communities.
“This nomination is not just about the foundation, it represents every learner, parent and community member whose life was touched by the work of Etta’s Healing Hearts Foundation. It is a testament to the power of compassion, education and hope,” she said.
They need your support by helping them bring this award home. Cast your vote: SMS SAHA 022 to 47439. SMSes cost R3 (no free SMSes) and voting closes on November 20.
If your school, community, family, parents, teachers or others need a mental health outreach, email ettashealinghearts@gmail.com
