Special gifts for a special lady!

Gifts come in all shapes and sizes; some large and flashy others smaller yet (frequently) more thoughtful? It was the latter sort that Ann Bradford received recently from the ladies support group at Siphile Sonke. The beautiful bead work gave testimony to the hours of patience, care and creativity that had these ladies had not only sewn, but also sown, into their gifts as a labour of love. These were special gifts for a special lady!

Ann Bradford has been an integral part of the Grabouw and Elgin community for more than 50 years! Arriving here in 1968 Ann and her husband moved onto Applethwaite Farm in 1975 as he was a bee farmer (you can still visit the Honey Shop near Elgin Railway Market) and she worked for Appletiser. However in 2004 Ann’s heart was knitted to the work at Siphila Sonke where the first beneficiaries were receiving monthly food parcels. As the ladies gained strength and health Ann compassionately championed the ladies support group; initially teaching basic life-skills progressing later to teaching crafts.

Ann tells of how she worked with Bev Morgan and Jenny Kilpin as together they sought to improve the life circumstances of many disadvantaged. The executive team at Siphila smile as they report on Ann’s sharp mind and her outstanding work ethic and of the impact she has had on so many! It was clear that each of the ladies in the support group have a love for this sparky lady as their gifts demonstrated; two huge beaded tablecloths, a large decorated food-net for the table, a pretty beaded necklace and beaded bottles plus a bathmat made from recycled plastic - all reminders of their changed lives.

Asked how she felt receiving these beautiful gifts Ann told us, “A huge part of my heart is still with the women of Siphila.”

PS If you would like to purchase bead-work made by the support group ladies please contact the office directly on 021 859 0001