Free will and estate planning workshop held for residents

A free will and estate planning workshop was held on Wednesday, September 10, at the Athlone police station hall, giving residents the chance to secure their family’s future and gain clarity on inheritance matters.

The event was hosted by a real estate company based in Vanguard,  in partnership with Athlone SAPS and the Athlone Community Police Forum (CPF).

It focused on the importance of drafting a last will, Shari’ah-compliant wills, reporting a deceased estate to the Master of the High Court, and avoiding complications or delays in estate administration, said the founder of the real estate agency, Nadia Moses.

She said the main aim was to raise awareness. “Many families are left vulnerable when a loved one passes away without a will, so we wanted to provide guidance and give people the opportunity to start the process — free of charge.”

The workshop offered practical help on the day. “We assisted community members by drafting their wills on the spot, answering personal questions about estates and inheritance, and guiding them through the legal and practical steps to protect their families,” she said.

For Juwayda Orrie from Delft, the workshop meant correcting her will. “I don’t want my children to fight with each other. I wanted them to explain and assist me so that my will follows Muslim rights,” she said.

Rugaya Samaai from Heideveld was helped to open a will, while David Bailey from Westridge in Mitchell's Plain attended because he “wanted to know more.”

Reginald Abrahams from Rocklands Mitchell's Plain brought all his documents to find out how a will works with property transfers.

The station commander, Colonel Junaid Alcock, warned that disputes over family homes are common without proper documentation. “To have a will is a must, married or not. The sooner you start, the better,” he said.

Those who missed the workshop can still contact Ms Moses on 021 205 0323 or 084 677 8459.