Sam Sarugesar (Tafta Council Member), Femada Shamam (Tafta CEO), Professor Rayne Stroebel (Eden Alternative) and Jane Linley-Thomas celebrate International Day of Care and Support at Tafta’s Suncoast screening.

‘Human Forever’ inspires Durban audience

What better way to mark the International Day of Care and Support than with a screening of the inspiring global documentary, Human Forever, at Suncoast CineCentre in Durban. Invited guests included Care Professionals, Community Leaders, and Advocates for elder well-being.

The movie follows the journey of Dutch dementia advocate, Teun Toebes, and filmmaker, Jonathan de Jong, who travelled across 11 countries and four continents to explore innovative approaches to dementia care.

More than just a story, Human Forever serves as a powerful reminder to see, understand, and deliver care in ways that honour humanity at every stage of life.

Tafta’s Chief Executive Officer, Femada Shamam, said: “On a day dedicated to recognising caregivers and those they serve, this movie offers a timely reminder that care is not merely a duty, but an expression of our shared humanity.

“In South Africa’s townships, care is often provided as an act of love, deeply rooted in community bonds – with neighbours and friends pitching in when needed. In Belgium, care workers offer comfort through touch and companionship rather than relying solely on medication – a reminder that healing often begins with human connection.

“These stories encourage us to view dementia not as a medical problem to be solved, but as a shared social responsibility, and to see people living with it as individuals whose histories, emotions, and relationships continue to matter,” she explained.

The screening concluded with a discussion led by Professor Rayne Stroebel, a long-standing advocate for person-centred dementia care. Audience engagement was high, with many describing the film as both hopeful and transformative.

In her closing remarks, Shamam thanked Stroebel for securing the screening rights, the eThekwini Municipality for providing transportation, and The Avalon Group and Suncoast CineCentre for donating the venue and technical support.

She also acknowledged Tafta’s dedicated Care Partners and Care Workforce for their ongoing commitment to Durban’s elder community.