Mariam Bassa with Tafta resident, Ivan Ronald, during her visit to Kings Hall.

A seat at the Christmas table – Tafta launches annual campaign with special guest, Mariam Bassa

Our annual Christmas Lunch Appeal has just launched, with support from South African actress Mariam Bassa, best known for her role as Aya Kandasamy in the popular Kandasamys film series. Bassa recently visited Tafta to learn more about our work and spend time with our elders.

Reflecting on what a festive gathering can mean, Bassa spoke about the importance of giving older persons the opportunity to let their hair down, enjoy themselves and feel the warmth of being together.

“Christmas is an important time where you feel the love; you really feel it,” she said. “I think it is lovely to get time to be together with everyone, because normally you are separated, but when you are at a big function, you are all together.”

Bassa also praised the dedication of Tafta’s staff, highlighting the care, humour and friendships that help create a welcoming environment for older persons. It is a reminder that care is not only about meeting practical needs; it is also about helping people feel valued, connected and young at heart.

This spirit of togetherness is what our annual Christmas Lunch Appeal is all about. In 2026, we hope to host 1 522 older persons, continuing a much-loved tradition that brings people together over good food, good company and the simple pleasure of sharing a special occasion.

And what a feast awaits! This year’s three-course menu features lamb meatballs in tomato relish with toasted garlic bruschetta, followed by slow-roasted leg of lamb with mint sauce and spinach-and-feta stuffed rolled chicken.

A vegetarian coronation vol-au-vent, served in a creamy, mildly spiced mushroom curry sauce and topped with cheese, offers a delicious alternative. The same festive menu is also available through a certified Halaal caterer. Roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables, gravy and stuffing complete the main course, with mini traditional fruit cake served with hot custard and cinnamon to finish.

“Christmas is about so much more than what is served on the plate. It is about the laughter shared, the friendships celebrated and the feeling that there is a place for you at the table,” says Tafta CEO Femada Shamam.

“Our annual Christmas lunches have become a cherished tradition, and we are grateful to everyone who helps us keep it alive. Every contribution brings us closer to giving older persons a festive occasion filled with warmth, dignity and the joy of belonging.”

For R160, you can sponsor a three-course Christmas meal for one older person. It is a simple way to give something meaningful – an opportunity to celebrate, connect with others and enjoy the magic of Christmas in good company.