31/05/2026
My name is Ntsiki Dwangu and I’m the Happiness Manager at NOAH.
I first joined NOAH in 2019 as a volunteer at the Khayelitsha Centre. What drew me in was my deep respect for elders and the wisdom they carry. I believe they deserve dignity, care, and opportunities to stay connected and active in the community. Supporting them and learning from their life experiences is truly meaningful to me.
A typical day for me is about connection — listening to elders’ stories, sharing laughter, and making sure they feel valued. One moment I’ll never forget was during a music session. As the elders sang and reminisced about their youth, I realised how powerful joy and memory can be, and how much my presence matters in their lives.
Of course, there are challenges. Meeting diverse needs and offering emotional support has taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of listening. Small acts of care really do make a big difference.
Working with elders has changed me. I’ve become more compassionate, more patient, and more grateful for life’s simple moments. Their resilience and gratitude remind me daily to face challenges with dignity and to cherish community. One elder in her eighties, who shared stories of overcoming hardship with kindness, left a lasting impression on me. Her optimism inspires me to approach my work with empathy and appreciation.
To me, NOAH is more than a workplace — it’s a family. It’s a space where elders are celebrated, where stories are shared, and where dignity is lived every day. I see NOAH as a pillar of care and connection in the broader community, strengthening bonds across generations and reminding us all to value older members of society.
My hope is that my contribution helps build a culture of respect and care that lasts beyond today. I want future generations to honour elders, foster empathy, and strengthen community bonds.
The belief that guides me is simple: Treat every elder with the respect, care, and attention you would wish for yourself. ✨
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