Ebenezer Child Development Programme, a day care in Braamfisherville presented a special day for dads on the 20th of June 2026. This to honour fathers and appreciate them for the role they play in rearing their children and responsibilities they carry in taking care of their families. A rare uplifting momentous gesture but crucial brainchild and initiative spearheaded by Principal Boemo Bogatsu. Men coming together in a place of their children’s development. No child, no moms, but only kings treated to a royal playground! An intimate roundtable set-up with delightful servings.
To loosen up, the elated fathers were made to enjoy playing games like their kids at creche, participating in quizzes and cognitive exercises where everyone became a winner! In this high-spirited celebration the well-dressed debonairs shared rapport during the heart-warming activities they partook in with lively contagious chuckles, oblivious of their regular, pressing responsibilities of their day-to-day.
Ma’am Boemo mentioned that a family that plays together stays together. “Men are a source irrespective of their respective backgrounds, each man is rooted as a strong tree, holding the family ties together. Everyone can see the results manifest in each family. Fathers are holding fast, holding on through all types of seasons. So, men need to know it’s okay! It is okay to say how they feel. It’s okay to go through life’s challenges, shortfalls, etc. Men and fathers please know that you are loved!”
Principal Boemo further mentioned that “this occasion is dedicated to men specially because every other day women are celebrated, so in this regard when the head of the family is alright, everyone in the family is good. In the home, in the neighbourhood and in the community, the role and presence of fathers is deeply felt. All what we want is for our kids to have good fathers as a result we want to spoil our grandchildren. There’s a saying that if you didn’t raise your children well, you’ll raise your grandchildren!’’
The highly decorated and influential speaker and mentor who’s track record speaks volumes locally and abroad, Youth Alive Organisation Director Ntate Abbey Matlou took to podium to address the men at large. As fathers we have been given a responsibility by our Creator to raise our children to be what He meant them to be, developing them to be future leaders and take position in society. To demonstrate love towards them (including verbally), offer emotional support, be sympathetic and take time to listen to them whenever they experience setbacks. Further to give wisdom and practical advises, mentor and be believable role models. Also, kids learn and emulate how their parents treat each other.
”Matlou further mentioned “that social media is seeking to erode social values and systems that they learnt from a tender age therefore we must be vigilant in preserving our tradition of instilling moral values towards them instead of them being parented by devices and gadgets. Engage in your child’s life, in who their friends are, their goals and how you could help them. Affirm, communicate relevant issues that hit home, and openly show affection towards them. Rebuke them in private, never sharing their secrets and praise them openly and publicly over their accomplishments. Ntate Abbey related that all of us are influenced by our upbringing so he solemnly encourages us as parents to pray for and pray together with our kids. Ultimately give your children good memories in their upbringing.”
Fathers’ comments; Sabelo Nyembe from Braamfischerville enthused that, “this session has been inspirational and what we seek to achieve as fathers and with more engagements depending on our backgrounds, we will keep learning and improving tackling issues that affect us especially as young dads.” Bakang Kgosiemang from Dobsonville related that, this has been insightful as I’m getting a resolve on some issues affecting my own fatherhood, exposing where I lack, I now realise that there’s a lot more to raising a child beyond financial means, one must interact more with them and that is much appreciable. Many thanks to the day care, it is quite a pleasure to be appreciated as fathers just to be given a pat on the back as a dad means a lot.”
Thabang Raditlhalo from Meadowlands opened up that “I came reluctantly asking myself what is to be done at creche but surprisingly I discovered that it was truly worthwhile to come here for a father’s day event that is full of fun and insight for us to grow and become the best fathers.” Neo Bogatsu from Lufhereng poured out his heart that, “I was unsure if I was perfectly parenting my kids trying to avoid how I grew up myself. When we celebrate an achievement together, I get happy but become sad afterwards. I honestly did not get the same interaction with my dad. This session made me reflect and relive my childhood agitating mixed feelings to my inner child. My advice to fathers is that be present to your kids not just be around.”
In wrapping the day, fathers didn’t only get inspiring take-aways from the event speeches and solid interactions but were also spoilt with Fathers ‘Day gifts to take home. So delighted on the day they resolved that more interactive regular forums be facilitated in the future.
Jerry Sokhupe
Soweto Sunrise News
