Sri Sri Phoenix Community Project Spreads Diwali Joy Through 100 Hampers in KZN

In the spirit of giving and togetherness, the Sri Sri Phoenix Community Project in KwaZulu-Natal brought joy to local communities through the preparation and distribution of 100 Diwali hampers.

Led by Project Manager Veena Maharaj, the initiative was made possible through the generosity of donors and the dedication of volunteers who came together to pack the hampers and help spread the light and joy of Diwali.

The hampers were distributed to families and community members across Redfern, Stonebridge and Greenbury Primary Schools, as well as to the Clayfield Senior Citizens, the Shree Sanathan Sathsangh Sabha and several individual homes.

A heartfelt thank you to all the donors and volunteers who contributed their time, generosity and support to make this initiative possible.

Through acts of kindness and community service, the Sri Sri Phoenix Community Project continues to embody the spirit of Diwali – sharing light, spreading hope and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

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Breath Water Sound Workshop Brings Wellness to Barrydale Youth

From 26–29 October 2026, IAHV, in partnership with Bright Haven, hosted another successful Breath Water Sound (BWS) Workshop at Fordshaven Hall in Barrydale, bringing together 35 young people from the local community for four days of learning, connection and personal growth.

Facilitated by IAHV BWS facilitator Francois Beer, the programme introduced participants to the benefits of breathwork, mindfulness, relaxation and sound-based practices, offering practical tools to support emotional well-being, self-awareness and inner balance.

The workshop forms part of IAHV Barrydale and Bright Haven’s ongoing commitment to making accessible wellness programmes available within the rural community, creating opportunities for young people to develop skills that can positively impact their everyday lives.

The success of the workshop would not have been possible without the generosity and commitment of the sponsors, facilitators and volunteers who helped bring the programme to life.

Bright Haven extends its heartfelt appreciation to:

Ladles of Love – for generously sponsoring and supporting the food.

OK Foods – for contributing food donations towards the workshop.

Natalie Uren – for her valuable support and involvement.

Elzaan Jumbo – for generously volunteering her time and preparing the meals.

Judha – from the Art of Living Barrydale Centre, for his dedication and commitment to the programme.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in making these four days possible. Through initiatives like these, IAHV and its community partners continue to create opportunities for positive change, bringing practical wellness tools, connection and hope to communities across South Africa.

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Smile Senior Citizens Celebrate Community Service in Mitchells Plain

On 30 October 2026, Smile Senior Citizens (IAHV), led by project leaders Shirish and Ruweida Soni, participated in the Mitchells Plain Community Service Awards – a wonderful celebration recognising individuals making a meaningful difference in their communities.

The event also marked several important milestones: 40 Community Service Awards recognising people across different sectors, 45 years of the Art of Living Foundation, 50 years of Mitchells Plain and 10 years of the Mitchells Plain United Residents Association (MURA).

A special highlight of the evening was the recognition of three Smile Senior Citizens seva warriors, each receiving a R5,000 voucher and a gift bag from Smile Senior Citizens (IAHV).

The vouchers will enable these dedicated volunteers to initiate or support a community project of their choice, in partnership with Smile Senior Citizens (IAHV) and MURA, extending the spirit of service and creating even more opportunities to uplift local communities.

This initiative marks the fourth seva project undertaken by Smile Senior Citizens (IAHV) in celebration of the Art of Living Foundation’s 45th anniversary.

It was a fantastic evening celebrating service, community spirit and the power of working together. As the event so beautifully demonstrated, when we join hands and work together, we can do so much more for our communities.

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