- Beautiful Gate South Africa celebrated its 30th anniversary in Lower Crossroads with a traditional event.
- Originally an orphanage, it has transitioned into a community center that supports families and children.
- The NPO continues to provide youth development and a safe environment for local children.
Hundreds of people gathered at Beautiful Gate South Africa in Lower Crossroads on Saturday 5 October to celebrate the non profit organisation’s (NPO) 30th anniversary.
The NPO serves as a non-denominational Christian organisation and provides assistance to families and children in need.
To mark the occasion, people dressed in traditional attire to reminisce about their roots.
Chief Executive Officer Minah Keola described the event as part of celebrating their achievement in the community. She stated that it was not easy but they managed to pull it off.
The centre was established in 1994 as an orphanage home but transitioned into a community centre in 2014.
“We realised that the number of children was growing and we decided to close it and we took some of the children to their families. Others were adopted, while others were fostered by the youth care workers. There were 40 of them,” said Keola.
Since then, they introduced various programmes for the community, including youth development. They also assist learners with their homework. “Our aim was to create a safe space and thriving community. We want people to know that Beautiful Gate is here to develop the community. It is open for everyone who needs help,” she said, adding that it is a place where children get love and a sense of belonging.
Keola said they also have extra-mural activities for the children.
Ward 35 councillor Mboniswa Chitha said he is happy to see the NPO celebrating such a milestone. He said while its establishment wasn’t easy, they had to fight for it to accommodate everyone.
“At the time it was established, I was the Sanco chair in Lower Crossroads. In the beginning, it was formed for certain people in the community, not for all of us. We fought for it to accommodate everyone. But to be here today celebrating its existence is exciting for me and I wish it to continue serving our people,” said Chitha.
Parent Xoliswa Sobantu reiterated Keola’s remarks that Beautiful Gate was a safe space for children. “My children always come here after school. It’s either to do their homework or to play. I don’t have to worry about looking for my children,” she said.
