Delmas First celebrates year-end milestone and welcomes new leadership
By: Nokulunga Lebambo
Delmas First, a fast-growing community-driven initiative dedicated to rebuilding and beautifying Delmas, held its year-end celebration yesterday , closing off a year of impactful community work while also marking the beginning of a new leadership era.
In an emotional yet celebratory gathering attended by residents, Victor Khanye Local Municipality leadership, and members of the Delmas First movement, founding coordinator Thabo Motau officially handed over responsibilities to newly appointed coordinator, Nhlanhla Masango.
Masango has been described by members as an unparalleled leader, passionate about the people of Delmas and committed to seeing real transformation take root. His appointment was received well received, signalling hope for continuity, growth and strengthened community participation.
In his final address as coordinator, Thabo Motau delivered a powerful message that called not only for sustained unity, but for conscious, compassionate action within the community.Motau urged residents to remain firm in the fight against gender-based violence and to strive for a safer, more caring Delmas.
He further highlighted the importance of supporting young girls, especially through access to sanitary towels, noting that no child should be left behind or miss school due to lack of basic dignity.“We must stand together to protect one another, uplift one another, and build a Delmas where every person feels safe and valued,” Motau said, his words drawing warm applause and reflection from attendees.The year-end function was both festive and symbolic of the unity Delmas First stands for.Youth participating in the organisation’s cultural and traditional dance wing filled the venue with rhythm and colour, while elder women who form part of the women’s wing graced the gathering with their presence and wisdom.
Laughter, song and celebration marked the day as young and old came together to reflect on progress made and the journey ahead.Delmas First has, since 2023, positioned itself as a beacon of community-led development initiating clean-ups, re-gravelling damaged roads, planting thousands of trees through its environmental restoration programme, and advocating for local business collaboration to revive the local economy.
The movement continues to grow in influence, guided now by the leadership of Masango, who is expected to build on the foundations laid over the past two years.As the sun set on the gathering, residents left with renewed commitment to the organisation’s vision: a cleaner, greener, safer and economically active Delmas.
