Colorful kites lift spirits in Heideveld
Heideveld Library librarian and mom, Nuhaa Portland with her son, Ayaan Portland flying a kite on Wednesday October 22.
Image: Marsha Bothma
The skies were filled with colorful kites as pupils from various educare centres in Heideveld and the surrounding community looked on.
This is the third year Cape Mental Health has hosted the kite display ahead of the festival taking place in Ottery this weekend. It also served as a build-up to the 31st Cape Town International Kite Festival, set for Saturday, October 25, and Sunday, October 26, at its new venue, Youngsfield Military Base in Wynberg.
On Wednesday, October 22, at Heideveld Sports Grounds, the excitement was palpable as children and caregivers gathered for the event.
From left are Thaakir Lawrence, Avianna Johnson, Sameegah Abrahams, Azra Stellenboom and Matteo Jardine from Fifth Avenue Daycare in Heidveld on Wednesday October 22.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Professor Ingrid Daniels, chief executive officer at Cape Mental Health, said: “We’re thrilled to bring the international kiters to Heideveld, where we operate a special care centre for children with severe intellectual disabilities."
"Allowing our kids to mix, connect, and be part of the wider community is important. Anxiety and depression are common mental health challenges, and globally, over 600 million people are affected. Early intervention makes a difference, and we provide free mental health services to support those in need,” she said.
Olga Matthews, principal of Olga’s Educare, said the children were overjoyed.
“The teachers and kids were excited. When they saw the kites, they ran to them. Events like this are important — you get information and connect with your community.”
The teachers, pupils and community from Olga’s Educare, Heideveld enjoyed the kite display at Heideveld Sports Grounds on Wednesday October 22.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Mpilo Khumalo, special education and care centres manager for Cape Mental Health, said: “Some of the children we support are affected by mental health issues, as are their families."
Heideveld faces high levels of crime and social challenges, which place stress on caregivers. Events like this help raise awareness, support families, and promote mental health, he said.
Samantha January, teacher at Fifth Avenue Daycare in Heideveld, said: “It’s been very good to come out here. For mental health, it’s great for children to socialise, mix with others, and see kites and experiences they might not otherwise have."
The festival promises more than just kites. Alongside spectacular displays, attendees can enjoy food trucks, entertainment, and activities aimed at fostering hope, resilience, and mental well-being across Cape Town’s communities.
Tickets cost R50 to R80 and are available via Quicket.
For more information or to donate, visit www.capementalhealth.co.za/CourageToFly or follow @CTKiteFest on social media.