On Mandela Day, teams from Astore Keymak, Plasti-weld, Cadac and SBS, proud divisions of the Hudaco Group, had the incredible honour of visiting a place where humanity, dignity, and deep compassion live every day—Rotalia, where love grows.
Nestled in Carletonville, Rotalia has been a beacon of hope for over 38 years, providing care to 25 full-time adults with intellectual disabilities, aged 23 to 75. Some have lived there for more than three decades—with no family ties, but surrounded by love that runs deep and wide.
This is more than just a care facility. Rotalia is home. It is family. It is where love grows
Fully reliant on community support, Rotalia provides everything—from meals and clothing to medical care, stimulation, and emotional safety. During school holidays, some residents return home, while others remain to enjoy a structured holiday program. Their daycare centre welcomes both residents and home-based individuals with similar disabilities from the community, offering intellectual stimulation from 08:00 to 13:00—led by dedicated facilitators who believe in unlocking every mind’s potential. At 13:00, the visiting children head home, and the residents continue their day in the warm embrace of this sanctuary.
This year, Rotalia welcomed their first-ever social worker, Cornel Gonsalves, who says, "I believe this position was waiting for me. I’m truly happy to be here."
The soul of Rotalia lies in its people—a team driven by purpose, love, and extraordinary commitment:
Cindy Smith, Manager – 5 years ("We learn from them.")
Lizette Schoeman, Boarding House Mom – 4 years ("They all call me mom. I love working with them.")
Merlin Springbok, General Assistant – 4 years
Noni Balopi, General Assistant – 4 years ("I’m happy to be here.")
Sarah Sereo, Laundry – 8 years
Johnny Crispin, Relief Hostel Caretaker – 1 year ("I love the children.")
Oupa Petrus Johannes Blom, Facility Caretaker – 20 years ("I love working here.")
Lea Montsho, Cook – 18 years
Lettie Mathibela-Night Shift Assistant
And the warm-hearted facilitators:
Lina Viljoen, Daleen Toxopeus, and Maryke Erasmus
Rotalia also runs a charity shop, open to the public, as part of their goal to become more self-sufficient. If you’re nearby, please support them. Every donation and purchase helps nurture this beautiful space where love grows.
Their dream? To one day take their residents and the children on holiday—to offer joy, adventure, and memories that last forever.
As Chairman Basil Straus says, "If we see our children smile, we’ve achieved our objective. This is their home. This is their family."
From all of us at Astore Keymak, Plasti-weld, and SBS, we left Rotalia not only humbled but inspired. This special place reminded us to appreciate more, give more, and always—make a difference, even if it’s simply through a smile.
Rotalia, where love grows.
A place that changes lives, including ours.
