FROM CONVERSATIONS TO CONNECTION: CAPE TOWN FAMILIES LEAVE INTERGENERATIONAL RETREAT STRONGER THAN BEFORE

By Nonhlakanipho Masola

• The Department of Social Development hosted a two-day intergenerational retreat in Cape Town, providing a secure, organised environment for families to restore trust, enhance communication, and strengthen familial relationships.
• Participants noted an increased emphasis on purposeful parenting, with numerous attendees pledging to implement practical strategies for transparent dialogue, mutual respect, and active engagement in their children’s upbringing.
• The programme concluded with a symbolic pledge and certificate ceremony led by MEC Jaco Londt, reinforcing participants’ commitment to sustaining stronger, healthier family relationships beyond the retreat.

The Department of Social Development (DSD) has officially concluded its Mother and Daughter / Father and Son Intergenerational Dialogue Retreat in Cape Town, bringing to a close a meaningful two-day engagement focused on healing, connection, and growth for families.

Day 2 of the retreat featured impactful sessions designed to strengthen relationships between parents and children. A key highlight was an insightful presentation by the Western Cape DSD Children and Families Unit, led by Social Worker Policy Developer, Nozuko Nothwanya. Her session focused on parenting styles and the rights and responsibilities of both parents and children.

Drawing from the Children and Families Directorate framework, Nothwanya defined parenting as a complex process of nurturing a child’s physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development from infancy through to adulthood. She outlined four parenting styles, namely authoritarian, authoritative, permissive, and uninvolved, guiding families to reflect on their own approaches to parenting.

She placed strong emphasis on the authoritative parenting style, describing it as the most balanced approach, where children feel heard and supported while parents maintain clear boundaries and consistent rules. This approach, she noted, fosters a healthy environment built on mutual respect and open communication.

The session further explored the rights and responsibilities of both parents and children, highlighting the importance of care, protection, guidance, and active involvement in a child’s life. It also encouraged children to respect others, follow rules, and contribute positively within their families.

As the programme drew to a close, emotions ran high as parents reflected on their journey over the two days. Many shared that the retreat had deepened their understanding of intentional parenting and the value of honest communication. Participants committed to continuing this work beyond the engagement, pledging to become more present, understanding, and supportive in their parenting.

One of the participants, Renaldo Mabie from Cape Town, shared a heartfelt reflection, describing the retreat as life-changing. He said, “This retreat is something I never knew I needed. It made me realise how big the gap was between me and my son.” He added that he is deeply appreciative of the opportunity, as it has helped him better understand his son and strengthen their relationship. “Our bond is now unbreakable,” he said.

Mabie further noted that the experience will not only make him a better father, but also a better person. He expressed his intention to share the lessons learned within his community, encouraging other parents to build stronger connections with their children.

Day 2 concluded on a celebratory note, with parents and children receiving participation certificates in recognition of their commitment and active engagement throughout the retreat. The certificates were presented by the Western Cape MEC for Social Development, Jaco Londt, marking a proud moment for all families involved.

The ceremony recognised participants who embraced the process and took meaningful steps towards building stronger, healthier family relationships, providing a fitting close to a day characterised by purpose and connection.

As the retreat concluded, families gathered for one final, meaningful moment. Parents and children took a heartfelt pledge to carry forward the lessons shared over the two days. With a renewed sense of commitment, they vowed to continue practising open communication, respect, and understanding in their everyday lives.

The Cape Town leg of the Mother and Daughter / Father and Son Intergenerational Dialogue Retreat leaves behind not only lasting memories but also a meaningful legacy, equipping families with the tools, renewed bonds, and shared purpose needed to sustain stronger relationships well beyond the programme.