News Desk Reporter
Dr Collen Mashawana spent his birthday giving back to children at New Jerusalem Children’s Home in Midrand.
The visit formed part of an annual tradition by the Collen Mashawana Foundation (CMF). The foundation uses his birthday as an opportunity to support communities and create opportunities for young people.
New Jerusalem Children’s Home was established in 2000. It currently provides care and support to about 120 vulnerable children.
The centre also offers education from Grade R to Grade 10. Teachers, nurses and caregivers help meet the children’s educational and daily needs.
During his visit, Mashawana toured the home and its learning facilities. He also met teachers and caregivers to learn more about the work being done at the centre.
The children marked the occasion with singing, dancing and musical performances. Mashawana and the CMF team later shared lunch with them.
The foundation also donated food to the home.
The visit resulted in several commitments to support children and young people at the centre.
After watching children perform with traditional instruments, Mashawana committed to donating a modern drum set. The equipment will support their musical development and help nurture their talents.
Three children will also receive support through the CMF Scholarship Bursary Programme. The programme will fund their future university studies.
Support will also extend to a young person from the centre who has completed their studies but is unemployed. Mashawana offered the young person employment.
The commitments extend the foundation’s support beyond schooling. They also focus on skills, talent development and access to employment.
Mashawana said the visit highlighted the importance of creating opportunities that can have a lasting impact.
“This is more than a centre; it is a home filled with care, structure and opportunity. Celebrating my birthday here reminds us that giving should not only address the needs of today, but create opportunities for tomorrow,” he said.
Mashawana also committed to returning to New Jerusalem and continuing to support the centre where the foundation can make a meaningful difference.