More than 110 senior citizens came together for a heartwarming winter celebration hosted by the Mount Edgecombe and Estates Community Association (MEECA) at Natest Primary School on July 8, where laughter, friendship and community pride took centre stage.

The day began with a rejuvenating yoga session led by Kristy Rathnum, helping attendees shake off the winter chill before enjoying a programme of games, music, dancing and a hearty meal.

Organisers said the event was designed to celebrate senior citizens while creating an atmosphere of dignity, belonging and joy.

The gathering also rekindled memories of the close-knit barracks community, with many seniors reminiscing about the camaraderie and shared experiences that shaped generations of Mount Edgecombe residents.

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MEECA said the event reflected its ongoing commitment to ensuring that older residents remain valued members of the community.

Community leaders and families, including Basil Kisten, Genny Manickum, Rogers Mariemuthoo, and Sam Naidoo, founding members of Young Springboks FC, also attended the celebration.

Their presence highlighted the historic merger between Young Springboks FC and Mount Edgecombe Sporting Club, which now operates as Mount Edgecombe Springboks FC with the support of the wider community.

MEECA also highlighted the continued growth of its various structures, which now include an Educators Forum with 76 members, a Senior Citizens Club with 120 members, a Youth League with 65 members, sports bodies with 200 members and an Executive Committee comprising 65 members.

The association announced that the Mount Edgecombe Ex-Students Society has established an interim committee, with an open day planned for early September.

Several new community initiatives are also in development, including a Dance Society, Yoga Club, Social Responsibility Club and a Drug, Alcohol and Gambling (DAG) Rehabilitation Society.

Organisers described the winter celebration as more than just a social gathering, saying it served as an invitation for descendants of the Mount Edgecombe barracks community to reconnect with their heritage and contribute to preserving its legacy.