Riverlea’s senior citizens were treated to a delightful trip down memory lane as they belted out iconic songs, including hits by Tina Turner, Elvis Presley, Jim Reeves, Judy Boucher, Elton John, Cliff Richard, Brenda Fassie, and more. The event, organised by the Region B Sports and Recreation Department in partnership with Pedro and Olga Da Silva’s Karaoke, aimed to commemorate Youth Day with style.
Negrita Faulmann, the Operational Manager for Riverlea Recreation Centre said the senior citizens wanted a stylish celebration, and Pedro and Olga Da Silva’s Karaoke generously provided their services.
“Our department promotes mobility through exercise, and music inspired the senior citizens to break into dance while singing along to their all-time favourite songs. It truly ignited their spirits,” Faulmann said.
Participating in the joyful affair were members of the South African Senior Citizens Fitness Association of Riverlea (SASFA), the Riverlea Yellow Roses Senior Citizens Club, and the Bosmont Age in Action group.
Edwina Fillies, the fitness trainer for SASFA and a Recreational Officer at the Blairgowrie Recreation Centre said it was heart-warming to see how easily they could bring joy to these seasoned souls.
“We organise these gatherings occasionally to let loose, laugh, scream, sing our hearts out, and dance. It’s our safe space, where we reminisce and thoroughly enjoy ourselves,” said Fillies.
A total of 39 senior citizens and staff members enthusiastically participated in the programme, cherishing the opportunity to engage with others and break the monotony of daily routines.
Merle Ferland, Chairlady of the Yellow Roses Senior Citizens Club, expressed her gratitude. “As senior citizens, we can sometimes become couch potatoes. This initiative allowed us to interact with others and have a fantastic time. Many thanks to Negrita and Edwina for organising this event. We had a blast.”
In addition to serving the senior citizens, the Riverlea Recreation Centre offers various programmes for the community of Ward 68. For inquiries about the facility’s services, please email Negrita Faulmann at NegritaF@joburg.org.za.
Written by Moipone Malaka
19/06/2023