THREE decades ago the tireless work of Professor Fatima Meer Mayet and the dream of a more inclusive society with better living standards for all, materialised when the Merewent Cheshire Home was established.

Also read: Hitting high notes at the Merewent Cheshire Home

On November 20 the organisation commemorated its 30th anniversary with a celebratory evening at Sibaya Casino, marking the journey of the organisation, its legacy and the invaluable contributions made by its donors and supporters.

Over 400 guests joined the event, including key stakeholders, supporters and well-wishers, in a rejoicing and emotional atmosphere. The programme displayed the talents of people living with disabilities from the Wentworth Arts and Culture Organisation.

Winnie Mkhize, the manager of the home, was beaming with pride as she addressed the milestone.

“We fall, we rise, and we move forward. This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our sponsors and donors,” she said.

One of the most notable moments of the evening was the recognition of the crucial role professor Meer played in founding the home.

“It is a dream come true for me to see Professor Meer acknowledged for her great role in society and the disability sector. Its foundation has deep roots in the struggle during the apartheid era when a dire need was felt for an institution to take care of disabled black people, many of whom were victims of gun violence, accidents and riots. Prof. Meer, with her late husband, worked very hard to establish this home which started in an old prison,” said Mkhize.

Deon Andipatin, chairperson of KZN Cheshire Home and vice-chairperson of Cheshire SA, commended the home’s enduring impact. “It is truly humbling and an honour celebrating 30 years with the Merewent Cheshire family. The growth and positive impact of this home, which now houses 35 residents, is remarkable,” he said.

Keynote speaker:

Keynote speaker and philanthropist Vivian Reddy, founder of the Sibaya Community Trust, praised the organisation’s sterling work. “We as businesses need to support organisations like this. When businesses receive investments, it allows them to create more jobs and allows organisations to get bigger support and we can then give more to the community. I believe that an organisation like this needs a lot of support. We need more people to put out their hand and volunteer, not necessarily with funding, but to give of their time and effort. Our service to humanity is a work of God,” he said.

Vote of thanks:

The event marked a moment to recognise all the many people and organisations that have been continuously supporting the home through the years. Mkhize also specifically thanked Vivian Reddy, Jane Pillay and the Sibaya Community Trust for their sponsorship, as well as KP Designs, Indian Delights, and media partners Southlands Sun.

She also specially acknowledged the home’s landlord APD-KZN for providing Merewent Cheshire Home with a 99 year lease agreement without charging any rental. “Without their generosity and support we would not have a facility to accommodate and care for people with disabilities,” she said.

As the home begins the next chapter in its life, Mkhize reflected on both its legacy and future. “This iss more than a celebration; it was a reminder of what we can achieve together. We look forward to continuing this journey of empowerment and care,” she said.

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