Where creativity and care come together
A group of women from Otjiwarongo meet weekly to crochet, socialise and spend time being creative. The group, known as Ta-Da, consists of a morning group and an evening group, giving women the opportunity to be part of this creative gathering at a time that works for them. According to Zelda, who started the group, the purpose was simple: “I started the group so that friends could come together, once a week, think about nothing else for a while and create something creative.”
The name Ta-Da has a special meaning for Zelda. After she was discharged from hospital, her grandchild often visited and asked: “What did Grandma make today?” She would then answer: “Go and look in the cot.” When he returned with a crocheted animal, he would excitedly call out: “Ta-Da!” Zelda believes creativity is important because it helps people switch off, process stress and reconnect with themselves and others.
“When you work with your hands, your thoughts become calmer. You focus on something beautiful that you are creating and it gives you a sense of joy and purpose,” she adds. One of the group’s recent projects was crocheting beanies for the cancer house. A total of 41 beanies were lovingly made for people undergoing cancer treatment.
The beanies were handed over on 10 June by Stefanie du Plessis from Otjiwarongo, a member of the Ta-Da group, to Rolf Hansen, Chief Executive Officer of the Cancer Association of Namibia. The women use their weekly gatherings not only to crochet, but also to share stories, encourage one another and strengthen friendships. For many of them, it is a welcome break from daily responsibilities. Through projects such as the cancer house beanies, Ta-Da shows that creativity is more than just a hobby. It can also be a way to make care tangible. The group hopes to continue with more projects in future and, through creativity, community
and compassion, make a positive contribution in Otjiwarongo. People who would like to get involved in similar projects or find out more can contact the Cancer Association’s projects department at [email protected] or 081 953 7740.
