​​​​The City of Joburg turned the spotlight on disability inclusion as it proudly hosted this year’s Casual Day celebration under the theme “Beyond the Labels“ at the Brixton Multipurpose Centre.  The City of Joburg, through Group Corporate and Shared Services (GCSS) and its Employment Equity and Transformation Office, in partnership with Group Communications and Marketing, successfully hosted Casual Day 2025.

Casual Day, an initiative of the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), has long been supported by the City. This year’s programme demonstrated the City’s determination to advance accessibility, equity, and transformation through meaningful engagement, advocacy, and collective action.

The event, hosted by Group Corporate and Shared Services (GCSS) in partnership with Group Communications and Marketing, brought together employees, partners, and advocates to share stories, music, and powerful messages that inspired a renewed commitment to disability rights.

The programme featured keynote contributions from Cllr Sithembiso Zungu, a Member of the Mayoral Committee for GCSS, who said the City has long recognised that persons with disabilities are not just beneficiaries of services, but active citizens and contributors to the social and economic fabric of Joburg.

“I urge all City departments and Municipal Entities employees to support this initiative wholeheartedly, not just today, but throughout the year. Let us commit to creating an environment where persons with disabilities can thrive, contribute, and live with dignity,” said Cllr Zungu.

Zameka Ngele, Group Head: GCSS, reminded attendees that true transformation means ensuring that disability inclusion is woven into the very fabric of the City.

“As the City of Joburg, our goal is to build a workplace that is accessible, that recognises diversity, and that removes barriers to full participation. Transformation in the workplace cannot be complete without advancing disability inclusion. We must always remember that disability inclusion is not a favour. It is a constitutional and human right. By advancing this transformation, we are shaping a City that truly works for all its people,” said Ngele.

Attendees were moved by the testimonies of Tebogo Popedi, Sipho and Allinah Mohale, who shared how assistive technology changed their lives, from isolation to empowerment. Generous sponsorship of the Metropolitan and the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), whose partnership ensured a meaningful, impactful celebration.

Written by Thembelihle Radebe