In a heartwarming celebration on Tuesday, 21 May 2025, the City of Johannesburg’s Citizen Relationship and Urban Management (CRUM) Region F hosted a special event at the Crown Gardens Recreation Centre in honour of International Tea Day. This year’s celebration, which brought together senior citizens from Ward 54, was not only a nod to the global significance of tea but also an opportunity to show appreciation for Johannesburg’s elderly residents who continue to play a vital role in shaping our communities.
International Tea Day, recognized globally on 21 May, was first proposed in 2005 and officially adopted by the United Nations in 2019. The day celebrates the cultural, historical, and economic importance of tea across the world. With this year’s theme, “Tea for Better Lives,” the focus was placed on how tea can contribute to livelihoods, sustainability, and health.
The City’s celebration catered to 120 elderly residents from three local retirement homes: Anni Burger, Carrick Place, and Xavier Street Old Age Village, all based in Ward 54, Crown Gardens. These residents were treated to a day filled with relaxation, wellness activities, and entertainment. Joining them was Ward Councillor Stuart Marais, who played an instrumental role in making the event a success.
Celebrating the Elderly: A Day of Relaxation, Care, and Community
The goal of the event was simple but powerful—to remind Johannesburg’s senior citizens that they are valued members of the community. Their wisdom and contributions continue to shape society, and this celebration was a way to honour that. The seniors were treated to a variety of aromatic teas, but the wellness activities didn’t stop there. The event also featured free health screenings, podiatry and chiropractic care, massages, social services, games, and live entertainment, ensuring the day was both relaxing and enriching.
One of the standout moments of the day was the outpouring of generosity from local businesses and community stakeholders. These contributors donated goody bags, cakes, biscuits, muffins, and other delicious treats, making the seniors feel truly special.
Irene Mafune, Regional Director for Citizen Relationship and Urban Management Region F, expressed her gratitude, saying, “This is the fourth event of its kind that we have hosted. Our senior citizens play a vital role in our communities and deserve our utmost respect. It is not only our duty but a constitutional obligation to care for them.” Mafune also highlighted that the event was made possible without any budget from the City, with generous contributions from various sponsors. These included the UJ Chiropractic Unit, UJ Podiatric Unit, UJ Law Clinic, Spar Ormonde, Pick n Pay, The Glen Mall, Sasol, Lee’s Beauty Clinic, SAPS, and more, who collectively ensured that the senior citizens felt like the queens and kings they are.
A Day of Inspiration and Community Support
The event also featured inspiring speeches from members of the senior community, including Sibongile Mjangqeka, a 70-year-old advocate for older persons’ rights through the NPO Age-in-Action. Mjangqeka encouraged her peers to stay active and positive, saying, “We are not ready to die. We must live fully, stay active, and appreciate what we have. Many people our age suffer from stress and depression, but by staying involved in activities like sewing or knitting, we can improve our well-being.” Her words resonated with many, reminding them of the importance of staying engaged and connected.
One of the event’s attendees, Lily Mafata, a grandmother of six, expressed her gratitude to the organisers, sharing, “There were so many cakes, I took some home as padkos. Not only were we fed, but we also gained knowledge as UJ law students advised us on how to draft wills. Though it was cold, it was a day well spent.” Mafata’s reflections echoed the sentiment of many who left the event feeling not only physically cared for but intellectually empowered as well.
Building a Caring Society for All Generations
Meshack Maluleke, Regional Manager for Social Development in Region F, spoke to the larger vision of the City’s commitment to building a caring and supportive society for all generations. “You, our senior citizens, are the foundation of our households and our communities. You are reservoirs of wisdom and deserve respect and support. Today is all about you. We want you to forget your worries and enjoy this moment. Our elderly must enjoy their golden years with health, dignity, and a deep sense of belonging.”
This event was more than just a celebration of tea. It was a reminder of the importance of caring for our elderly, ensuring that their golden years are filled with dignity, respect, and the knowledge that they are valued members of society. Through this initiative, the City of Johannesburg demonstrated its ongoing commitment to supporting its senior citizens, proving once again that, in Johannesburg, the well-being of all its residents—regardless of age—is a priority.
