New sensory room brings dignity care and possibility to children with cerebral palsy

Sibaya Community Trust and KZN Cerebral Palsy mark a milestone in inclusive community support

Speaking at the handover of a Sensory Room to KZN Cerebral Palsy, Vivian Reddy, Founder and Chairman of Sibaya Community Trust, said that the handover was a moment of purpose and hope.

“We now have a space carefully created to support, stimulate, and uplift individuals living with cerebral palsy,” he added.

A Commitment To Compassion And Dignity

At Sibaya Community Trust, we hold a simple but powerful belief: A society is ultimately judged by how it treats its most vulnerable. And today, we choose compassion. We choose dignity. We choose action.

Every day, individuals living with cerebral palsy demonstrate extraordinary courage — often in ways the world does not fully see or appreciate. Behind every child is a family that perseveres. Behind every small step forward is immense effort, patience, and love.

“It is therefore not an act of charity to support them — it is our responsibility,” he said.

Ongoing Investment In Social Development

Reddy spoke of the Trust’s recent announcement of R100 million towards social development over the next four years in partnership with the KZN Department of Social Development, and added that over 180 NPOs have been beneficiaries of Sibaya Community Trust.

He commended KZN Cerebral Palsy on their dedication to restore dignity, strengthen families, and offer intense care to the children in their care.

He concluded by saying that this was not the end. It was a beginning of greater inclusion, deeper partnerships,and sustained investment in the care community.

On behalf of the Sibaya Community Trust, Reddy officially handed over the sensory room, reaffirming the unwavering commitment to building a society that is not only successful, but compassionate, inclusive, and just.

Impact Of The Sensory Room

Musa Radebe, Chairperson of KZN Cerebral Palsy, shared details on the services offered and added how critical the Sensory Room was to children with cerebral palsy and other disabilities.

He thanked Sibaya Community Trust for the impact they have made, not only with the sensory room but also on the previous infrastructure project of building two additional classrooms for the organisation.

A Collaborative Effort For Social Impact

The MEC, KZN Department of Social Development, Mbali Shinga, said that it was an honour and a privilege to witness a moment that reflects the true spirit of compassion, dignity, and social responsibility.

“Today is not just about infrastructure. It is about restoring dignity, nurturing potential, and creating spaces where every individual, regardless of ability, is seen, valued, and empowered,” she added.

She acknowledged the remarkable work of Vivian Reddy and the Sibaya Community Trust, and added that their commitment to uplifting communities, investing in meaningful projects, and partnering with organisations that serve the most vulnerable is deeply commendable.

This sensory room is not just a donation — it is a legacy of care, a symbol of hope, and a powerful example of what can be achieved when the private sector aligns with social development goals.

“To the KZN Cerebral Palsy Association, we salute you,” she said. “Your tireless work in supporting individuals living with cerebral palsy, advocating for inclusion, and providing specialised care is truly inspiring.”

“You are not only caregivers — you are champions of human dignity and agents of change in our society.”

“This sensory room represents something profound.”

For individuals with cerebral palsy and other developmental challenges, such spaces are essential. They provide stimulation, comfort, therapy, and a sense of calm.They open doors to improved cognitive development, emotional regulation, and overall well-being. In essence, they create opportunities where limitations once existed, she added.

Strengthening Partnerships For The Future

As the Department of Social Development, we firmly believe that social upliftment is not a luxury — it is a necessity. When we invest in people, especially those with disabilities, we are building a more inclusive, compassionate, and equitable future.

Partnerships like the one we celebrate today are critical. Government cannot do it alone. It is through collaboration — between government, the private sector, and civil society — that we are able to extend our reach and deepen our impact.

Let it inspire more organisations to step forward, to give, to partner, and to invest in initiatives that change lives.

She concluded by extending her heartfelt gratitude to Sibaya Community Trust and the KZN Cerebral Palsy Association for their unwavering dedication.