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Living legends honoured in Eldorado Park community arts programme

Eldorado Park celebrated the outstanding achievements of local heroes with the first Living Legends Awards, honouring those who have made a lasting impact in education, community activism, female empowerment and more.

As part of the Living Legends initiative, the Eldorado Park community recently celebrated the remarkable achievements of 10 people who significantly contributed to various sectors.

A collaboration between Community Development Projects (CDP) and the City of Johannesburg’s (CoJ) Job Culture Arts Alive 2024-2025 movement, the programme highlighted the transformative work done in the community and honoured the unsung heroes who positively impacted the lives of others.

MMC for finance Margaret Arnolds (middle) captured Cheryl Pelay (right) and

The Living Legends Awards, held on December 16 at the Don Mateman Hall, recognised 10 exceptional individuals in five categories: education, community activism, youth development, female empowerment and entrepreneurship.

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Among the honourees were Cheryl Pillay, Liesl Valu, Tessa Amin and Bernice la Grange, all acknowledged for their contributions to the community.

Netesha Armien.

Jonathan Green, the chairperson and CEO of CDP, spoke about the initiative’s purpose, noting that the Living Legends programme aims to change the narrative around Eldorado Park.

“It showcases the positive work being done and recognises individuals making a lasting impact,” Green explained.

The celebrations began on December 13 with community art classes, which fostered creativity and allowed the local children to express themselves artistically.

The next day, a dance competition showcased the participants’ talent and energy, enriching the celebration and bringing the community together.

These activities were organised with the support of the CoJ and Experts of Africa, who played a key role in putting the programme together.

Judges (left) Jonathan Retief, Phiwokuhle Sibande and Robyn Brophy.

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One living legend recognised in the education category was Sonia ‘Die Boek Feetjie’ Elie, a literacy activist known for her dedication to fostering a love of reading in children.

“Being nominated as a Living Legend is an honour. It shows that every small deed we do adds up, and it has a greater impact on the life of others,” Elie shared.

Elie runs various educational initiatives in Eldorado Park, including reading aloud to preschool and Foundation Phase children, book clubs for children and a reading and tutoring centre at her home.

Last year, she opened a preschool under the Smartstart programme, which she credits with providing her with valuable training and learning materials.

Elie has also encouraged first-time authors, like eight-year-old Dainon van Wyk, Eldorado Park’s first child author.

“I received a gift from our Lord to teach children to read and write,” Elie said, reflecting on the impact of her work.

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Another honoured individual, Alicia McPherson, the founder of the Sisterhood Foundation SA, was also recognised in the education sector.

Young aspiring artisits showed off their talents and skills during the art alive event at Don Mateman.

“Being recognised as a Living Legend is humbling and fulfilling. It feels like a profound acknowledgement of years of dedication, perseverance and passion for empowering others through knowledge and growth,” McPherson said.

She stressed the power of education as a transformative tool, especially in communities where access to quality education is crucial.

She added, “The recognition is an affirmation that our efforts to inspire and guide individuals are making a meaningful difference.”

Pillay, honoured in the female empowerment category, shared her thoughts on the awards’ significance, saying it was an honour to receive an award as a Living Legend.

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She said she was honoured for over 35 years of community involvement and activism.

Alicia McPherson was recorgnised in the eduction category.

Other legends included Rashid Juma, Desiree Nicholls, Lee-Ann Tracey Malete and Siboniso Nomgenge.

While the event celebrated the honorees, it was also a reminder of the power of community-driven change.

For more information on the programme and its honourees, visit the initiative’s social media platforms: Facebook: Community Developmental Projects, Instagram@comdevprojects or www.comdev.org.za

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