A recent Hopefield community event highlighted unity, inclusion and the recognition of people living with disabilities—emphasising the need for spaces where everyone is meaningfully included and supported.

Held at the Hopefield Civic Centre and funded by Umoya Energy, the event brought together a diverse range of community members, organisations and stakeholders from across the region. Through open dialogue and shared experiences, the day fostered a collective commitment to building a more inclusive community.

Importantly, the event created a platform not only to identify existing gaps in accessibility and inclusion, but also to celebrate the valuable contributions, talents, potential of persons living with disabilities within the Hopefield community.

“The event was truly well attended, and it reminds us how important it is to create spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and included, especially those who are differently abled. Inclusion is not an option; it is a responsibility. I am deeply grateful to Umoya Energy for intentionally creating these opportunities,” said Esmarelda McKay, Government Communication and Information System (GCIS)West Coast.

Among those in attendance were representatives from Harbour of Wellness in Saldanha, an inclusive centre for the disabled, alongside learners and staff from Weskus School of Skills, a highly regarded skills-based school offering over 10 workshops, ranging from hospitality and welding to agriculture and motor mechanics, for learners with academic challenges.

“This event was about creating a space where everyone feels seen, included, and valued,” said Willbur Cleophas, Social Performance Intern at Umoya Energy, who also took the lead in organising the event.

As part of the day’s activities, the Initiative for Community Advancement (ICA), one of Umoya Energy’s implementing partners, distributed reading glasses to attendees. Free sanitary products were also made available through Umoya Energy’s Sanitary Pad Vending Machine Programme.

Stakeholders and partners in attendance included representatives from Mfesane, SAPS, GCIS, Siyabonga Care, ICA, Hopefield Wind Farm Local Community Company, and Angels Resource Centre.