LCSA fundraising event 'Maa Ka Pyar' … a pyaari event

Arbee calls for swift justice for perpetrators of Gender Based Violence…

The Laudium Care Services for the Aged held a successful fundraising event in honour of all women, which took place on Women’s Day, this past Tuesday (August 9) at the SCC hall in Erasmia.

Addressing a packed audience of seniors and other sponsors, Ahmed Arbee, chairperson of the LCSA said, “We have gathered here today to honour and acknowledge all women in our country as part of the LCSA’s National Women’s Day fund raising event entitled ‘Maa Ka Pyaar.’ This historic event highlights the role that women play in society and continue to play in our country. Despite the important role of women in society, we need to make our voices louder as we find increasing evidence of seniors, mothers, even young women suffering from the consequences of gender-based violence.

“Mother Teresa said, ‘We think sometimes poverty is only being hungry and homeless but the poverty of being unwanted, uncared for, unloved and abused even at times by family is the greatest form of poverty in our society.’ We call upon all South Africans, to join the clarion call that we demand swift justice for perpetrators of gender-based violence.”

The seniors and other members of the audience were treated to hilarious interventions by comedian and Program Director, Muthoo Murugan. Various song items were serenaded by Vandana and a group of musicians from Durban called the Bombay Band. A blasting entertainment was also presented by the Oriental Fire Dancers. After a 30-month lockdown, the audience responded with very positive comments regarding the high standard of entertainment offered.

In capturing an emotional experience, the LCSA paid a glowing posthumous tribute to 2 Superstars who made their respective contributions to the LCSA. From the Kollapen family, Mrs Rajambal Kollapen also known as Aunty Thanga and Yusuf Essa’s (Choppie) late wife Shazia Essa. It was an emotionally charged moment when the portraits of the super moms were unveiled by close family.

Ahmed added, “Today we honour and pay a special tribute to 2 of the LCSA’s Super Stars. Though they are no longer with us on earth, I refer to our Super Moms as our angels in Heaven. Their contribution to the LCSA remains embedded in our hearts, leaving a lasting impression of their spirit of service and sacrifices made in serving our seniors. They made a difference in the lives of others.”

Justice Jody Kollapen, Honorary Member of the LCSA and sisters, Sharon and Nimmie, unveiled the portrait of Aunty Thanga. Choppie (Yusuf Essa) also an Honorary Member of the LCSA, accompanied by late Shazia’s parents, Uncle Sikander and Rashida Latib unveiled the portrait of the late Shazia Essa. Both Justice Jody Kollapen and Choppie paid a moving tribute in their respective messages.”

In his Vote of Thanks, Choppie thanked all present, the group of entertainers, Joe Bhidia for the use of the SCC Hall, Shiraan for the décor, all sponsors including the LCSA Media Partner Nazeer Noormohamed of the Laudium Sun. The fund-raising event turned out to be a huge success for the LCSA and garnered a big round of applause for Choppie and Zainab from the Choppie Team, who played a pivotal role in facilitating the successful fund-raising event.