A wave of nostalgia and hope filled Highlands Primary School on Thursday 12 February as Mitchells Plain residents and community leaders gathered to launch their 50th anniversary celebrations and introduce the Mitchells Plain Legacy Project.
The heartfelt interfaith service marked the beginning of a year-long journey celebrating five decades since the area’s establishment in 1976, with community leaders sharing fond memories while looking ahead to a brighter future.
From humble beginnings
Norman Jantjes, the Mitchells Plain United Residents’ Association (Mura) Chair and legacy project coordinator, reflected on how far the area has come since its early days.
“I remember the first police station there in the west,” Jantjes reminisced during the emotional launch. “We come from a place where many people who came to live here came from different areas, and this area was quite something.”
The seasoned activist spoke warmly of how the community flourished despite challenges, particularly in sports development. “We introduced excellent sports people when we came to school. Many of those people achieved great things,” he said.
Community spirit at the heart
Jantjes emphasised that the anniversary celebration would remain true to Mitchells Plain’s community-driven spirit, steering clear of political agendas.
“Whatever we do should be community-led,” he explained. “The community will remain in charge of all activities. We wanted to make sure this celebration isn’t contaminated by politics.”
ALSO READ: Oxford appoints Mitchells Plain academic to top management post
Dr Alicia English, project liaison and journalist, warmly welcomed community leaders, stakeholders, government officials and learners, acknowledging the seniors who built the foundations of their neighbourhood.
Building on strong foundations
The Mitchells Plain Legacy Project aims to weave together the area’s rich history with ambitious plans for the future. The initiative focuses on promoting social cohesion, restoring civic pride, celebrating local excellence, and inspiring renewed community activism.
Jantjes spoke passionately about the institutions that emerged during the apartheid years. “Those organisations were born during apartheid to help us achieve and get through the experience we were going through. Those things became institutions of our community,” he said.
He stressed the importance of learning from the past while building for the future, particularly for young people who need better facilities and opportunities.
Creating lasting change
“We want to leave behind something meaningful for the young people,” Jantjes said with conviction. “Let’s use this opportunity to become more coordinated, more cohesive in what we’re doing.”
His vision extends beyond the anniversary year, hoping to create sustainable change that will benefit future generations.
Slogan competition captures community spirit
Community members are invited to participate in the Mitchells Plain Slogan Competition, designed to capture and promote the spirit of the area. The competition offers a R500 prize, with the winning entry to be announced at the Love Local Market on Friday 28 February.
The slogan competition forms part of the project’s efforts to reshape the narrative around Mitchells Plain, moving from stories of struggle to celebrating success and resilience.
February festivities
A packed programme of community events will keep the celebration momentum going throughout February. The Alliance Française Love Jam Session today, Friday 13 February, offers a free creative showcase for local poets, musicians and visual artists.
Families can look forward to the 5 Angels Family Fun Day on Saturday 15 February at Woodlands Sports Field, promising a joyful red and white themed community celebration with activities for all ages. Community organisations and stakeholders have an opportunity to shape the project’s direction at the Stakeholder Engagement Meeting on Thursday 19 February at the Westridge Library. The month concludes with the Love Local Market on Friday 28 February at Dagbreek Hall, where local entrepreneurs and makers will showcase their products. Stallholders can book their spaces at this vibrant market that celebrates homegrown talent while revealing the slogan competition winner. An Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service with food parcel distribution is also planned for Saturday 21 February at the Town Centre, at 2pm.
United in purpose
The interfaith service brought together voices from across the community, including religious leaders, educators, and community organisations. Representatives from Islamic and Christian communities joined school principals and education officials in a powerful display of unity. The project team is extending an open invitation to local organisations, businesses, sports clubs, and faith groups to join the collective celebration calendar throughout 2026. “We want to encourage every partner, every business, every organisation to be part of this celebration,” Jantjes said, his enthusiasm infectious. The Mitchells Plain Legacy Project team includes Norman Jantjes, Dr Alicia English, Lucretia Jardini from the Mitchells Plain Entrepreneurs Hub, Jo-Anne Müller from the Mitchells Plain Advice Office, veteran activist Tyrone Parks, and journalist Simonéh de Bruin.
You must be logged in to post a comment.