Ward 57 councillor Faeeza Chame celebrated Heritage Day with the Johannesburg Association of the Blind, using the occasion to highlight the importance of building an inclusive community where no one is left behind.

Addressing beneficiaries and community members, Chame said Heritage Day was about more than celebrating South Africa’s diverse cultures, traditions and history.

“It is also about the heritage of caring, compassion, inclusion and community,” she said.

Chame said it was particularly meaningful to celebrate the day alongside the Johannesburg Association of the Blind, emphasising that a community’s heritage is also reflected in how it treats its people.

“Our heritage is not only found in our history and traditions. It is also found in the way we treat one another and in the way we make sure that nobody is forgotten or left behind,” she said.

The power of partnerships

The councillor also thanked Busch for its generous sponsorship and support of the Johannesburg Association of the Blind.

“Your contribution is much more than a sponsorship. It is a message that says: ‘We see you, we value you, and you matter,’” Chame said.

She thanked Busch, on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Johannesburg Association of the Blind, the Ward 57 community, and herself, for contributing to the initiative.

Chame said meaningful partnerships between businesses, community organisations and local government were essential to turning commitments to stronger communities into tangible action.

“We often speak about building stronger communities, but partnerships such as this are how we make those words a reality,” she said.

Beyond basic services

“As a councillor, I believe that service is not only about roads, water, electricity and infrastructure. It is also about people. It is about dignity. It is about reaching out to our vulnerable residents and ensuring that they know they are part of our community,” she said.

Chame encouraged residents to embrace South Africa’s diversity and use Heritage Day to strengthen social bonds.

“Our differences should never divide us. Instead, they should make our community richer, stronger and more united,” she said.

She also reaffirmed her support for the Johannesburg Association of the Blind, telling beneficiaries that they remain an important part of the Ward 57 community.

“Let us continue to care, to give, to support one another and to build a South Africa where every person can live with dignity and pride,” she said.