Twenty seniors from as far as Pelican Park, Phumlani and Lotus River were recently treated to an all-expenses-paid trip to Robben Island and received goodie bags filled with treats and toiletries.
For some of the senior citizens, this was their first time embarking on the seas towards the historic island.
The members also received a sun hat and a snack pack upon arrival at Robben Island.
The outing on Wednesday 25 March was spearheaded by Ward 67 councillor Geraldine Gordon in partnership with the City’s Parks and Recreation department.
Gordon said that many of the seniors in the community have not left their residential areas in a long time.
“Our seniors have been around during the times of Mandela, so we wanted to give them an experience that they’ve only read about. Now that they can experience all the history that they’ve been told about and I wanted to give them that opportunity,” she said.
The trip took a year’s worth of planning, Gordon added.
“I’m elated to take them on this momentous trip. It’s great to see the excitement on their faces because 95% of them have not been to Robben Island, so it’s a privilege.
Up to 10 volunteers also assisted with the planning of the goodie bags and meals that were handed to the seniors on the day.
To kickstart the initiative, Gordon sent out an invitation through Ward 67’s WhatsApp group, which sought the oldest senior citizens in the ward to join the outing.
The fact that the seniors would visit Robben Island was a surprise revealed later.
People’s Post spoke with two senior citizens, Mienie Elizabeth and Elizabeth Daniels, who were brimming with excitement for the trip.
Elizabeth hails from Lotus River and Daniels resides in Pelican Park.
“This is my second time to Robben Island, but I’m very nervous and excited!” she said.
Daniels said it was her first time going to the island, but said she was not anxious to brave the seas on the day.
“I can’t wait to feel the water and see all the history I’ve always heard about and now I’m going to experience first-hand where Mandela was and where his cell was,” Daniels said.
