A simple movie morning turned into a powerful lesson on family, mentorship and hope that inspired the families at the Community Fathers movie morning at the Austerville Community Hall recently.

The organisation, which screened “The Ultimate Gift,” said the aim was to foster hope, strengthen family ties and promote positive values within the community.                                                                                                                                                                          Also read: Father figures step up in Wentworth

About 89 people came together, including a mix of parents, children and teenagers. The morning focused on connection and reflection, creating a space for families to spend time together.

Darian Smith, the founder of Community Fathers, said the initiative was spearheaded by several members of Community Fathers and they worked to create an environment that felt safe and welcoming for everyone.

He added the day was more than about just watching a movie. 

“The feature film, The Ultimate Gift, was more than entertainment. Its story of discovering life’s true treasures, love, joy, learning, service and legacy, became a moral framework for the work Community Fathers and youth are building together. The film reminded families that the greatest inheritance is not money, but the values we pass on,” said Smith.

Impact on the Community Fathers 

Allan Holmes, another Community Father, said that fathers and other positive male figures play a crucial role in a child’s development. “Presence is the ultimate gift. When fathers show up, they give children the script of love and guidance that lasts a lifetime,” said Holmes. 

Also read: Community Fathers empowers future career seekers

Restoring hope

The movie morning also had a positive impact on the parents who attended. Rainer Basadew, who was there with his son, found renewed hope in seeing positive male role models interacting with the children. “My boy saw men laughing, listening and caring. That’s the example we need. It gives me hope that our community can heal,” said Basadew.

A team effort 

The event was made possible through the collaboration of several organisations, including Durban South Basin Area Based Management, The Employment Channel, Wentworth Victim Friendly Centre, The Abbaquar Dream Centre, GS Live, Wentworth SAPS, and the Merewent Community Policing Forum. 

Students from DUT who are part of the organisation’s EmpowerU programme also attended, and the event reinforced the idea that they should use their education to mentor and support others in the community.

Looking ahead, Smith said that Community Fathers plans to build on the success of this initiative with future programmes designed to promote unity and enhance community safety. 

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox.