Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Sipepisiwe Moyo, [email protected]
Bakers who donated cakes to Ingutsheni Central Hospital’s annual Cake Day in Bulawayo have vowed to continue supporting the initiative, stressing the importance of caring for mental health patients as anyone could find themselves in need of such care at any time.
Patients at the psychiatric hospital were treated to a heart-warming celebration last Friday during the annual event, which saw local bakers donating cakes of various shapes and flavours to spread joy, among the patients.
The initiative, driven by the generosity of community members, was aimed at bringing comfort and happiness to patients while raising awareness about mental health. Following the event’s success, many bakers have pledged to continue supporting the Cake Day tradition, ensuring continued support for Ingutsheni’s patients.
Among the donors was Gugu Dube, owner of Something Sweet Café, who revealed that her personal connection to Ingutsheni inspired her to participate.
“My younger sister once worked at Ingutsheni’s accounts department and shared the challenges patients face. That’s when I started donating whatever I could afford,” said Dube.
She recalled her humble beginnings as a saleswoman at a local café before venturing into the baking business. This year, she donated 12 butter-icing cakes, a gesture that deeply moved the patients.
“The most memorable moment for me was seeing them (patients) dance and enjoy themselves, completely carefree. After donating the cakes, I felt confident that the patients now know that there are people who care about them despite their mental health struggles,” she added.
Dube shared the importance of showing kindness, urging society to be more compassionate.
“Many people believe those at Ingutsheni deserve to be there and that the world is better off without them. But that’s not the case. They are just like us, and no one knows what the future holds. A small act of kindness can go a long way,” she said.
Melody Jones, another donor, expressed how the event aligned with her personal values. She not only donated cakes but also provided a PA System to liven up the celebration.
“I believe in uplifting others, especially those going through tough times. The event was a reminder that mental health issues can affect anyone, and we must support those already facing challenges,” said Jones.
As a professional marketer with a deep passion for baking, Jones finds joy in seeing people enjoy her creations.
“Baking is therapeutic for me, and seeing others delighted by what I make brings immense satisfaction,” she said.
She pledged to contribute even more next year, with a bigger and better sound system courtesy of Immutable Sound Systems.
For Majelita Filder, owner of Cake Guru Zimbabwe, baking has been a lifelong passion. She has been donating to Ingutsheni whenever possible and was introduced to the hospital’s needs by fellow philanthropist, Sipho Mazibuko.
“I’ve been baking since Grade Three, a skill I learnt from my home economics teachers. Even though I couldn’t attend the event in person, I knew from past experiences that the patients would be grateful,” she said.
Filder baked a blueberry and vanilla cake, recognising that a simple treat can uplift spirits during tough times.
“Mental health is real, and many people take too long to seek help due to stigma. We must support each other and show kindness without expecting anything in return,” she said.
She encouraged those willing to help to reach out to Sipho Mazibuko, founder of Mental Voices Trust, who organised the event.
The Cake Day was not just about sweets but more of a reminder of the power of compassion, the importance of mental health awareness, and the impact of small gestures in changing lives.
Some of the hospital staff who spoke to this publication thanked Mazibuko for hosting the event as patients danced, celebrated and enjoyed their cakes, ending the day with a sense of peace and happiness.
Online Reporter