Laudium Care Services for the Aged (LCSA) held its annul Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Ballroom Hall on Bengal Str, Laudium, this past Monday (Sept 29). The occasion was filled with emotion and gratitude as tributes were paid to outgoing founding Chair, Ahmed Arbee, who delivered his final report before stepping down from his position, after an incredible 26 years of selfless service to the community. Reflecting humbly on his tenure, Ahmed directed a message to both donors and volunteers, saying, “The true measure of a life well-lived is filled in the moments we give of ourselves; sharing wisdom, inspiring hope, wiping tears, touching hearts,” leaving many in the hall visibly touched, with some even shedding a tear. The heartfelt event was marked by a standing ovation for Ahmed, a rare moment that truly captured the respect and admiration he has earned over the years. A Trophy of Honour was also presented to Ahmed for his dedicated service to the LCSA. The Laudium Sun joins the LCSA and indeed the entire community in thanking Ahmed for his remarkable, dedicated years of service. “While you may be stepping down as Chair, your exemplary leadership, compassion and sacrifice will continue to inspire many in the years to come. After nearly 3 decades at the helm, this break is well-deserved. Enjoy every moment, dear Ahmed. May the Almighty always protect you and keep you in good health.”
Laudium Care Services for the Aged ages well after 26 years under founding Chair Ahmed Arbee… New chapter as chair ‘retires’…
Laudium Care Services for the Aged (LCSA) held its Annual General Meeting at the Ballroom Hall on Bengal Str, this past Monday (September 29).
The occasion marked both reflection and renewal, as outgoing Chairperson Ahmed Arbee – a founding member who has served faithfully for 26 years – delivered his final report before stepping down.
Key Highlights from the Chairperson’s Report
Financial Turnaround: LCSA recorded a surplus of R30,000 for 2024/25, reversing the previous year’s deficit. This was achieved despite the loss of the Department of Social Development feeding subsidy, thanks to community generosity including a R100,000 pledge from Mahier Tayob. At the AGM, Mahier was honoured with the presentation of an Appreciation Award Shield in recognition of Tayfin’s substantial funding support and their past contribution having audited the LCSA Financials at no charge, for more than a decade.
Empowerment Centre Expansion: The Centre scaled production of reusable sanitary pads for learners in disadvantaged communities, with outreach in Lotus Gardens, Laezonia, and Danville. This initiative was supported by Meshen Moodley representing the Amrut Foundation. Meshen was acknowledged with a presentation of an Appreciation Award Shield for the considerable funding support and guidance strengthening the sustainability and impact of the sanitary pad initiative.
Future Plans: LCSA announced two annual fundraising events to sustainoperations, calling on both community members and corporates to pledge annual support for the Golf fund-raiser on November 9 and a year-end function in December 2025.
Leadership Transition: Reflecting on his service, Ahmed directed a message to both Donors and Volunteers when he said, “The true measure of a life well-lived is found in the moments we give of ourselves—sharing wisdom, inspiring hope, wiping tears, touching hearts.”
Arbee received a standing ovation and was presented with a Trophy of Honour for his dedicated service.
Two speakers paid tribute to Ahmed: Justice Jody Kollapen (Senior Judge of the Constitutional Court of South Africa), said: “In a world often marked by narrow self interest, it is inspiring to find in LCSA a caring ethos that reflects the best of humanity. Today we also bid farewell to the passion that has driven LCSA for so long. Thank you, Mr. Arbee, for your leadership, sacrifices, and legacy.”
Mahier Tayob, Director of Tayfin Forensic and Investigative Auditors, highlighted the need for self-reliance, youth participation, and sustainable funding models:
“Your service, Ahmed, has been more than the rent for a room on earth – it is the rent for an entire hotel. Your name will always remain synonymous with LCSA.” The AGM was well attended by 150 guests, including donors, volunteers, and senior citizens.
As the LCSA general elections will only be held in 2026, the following Members were co-opted till the next AGM
Aneesa Cassim Noormohamed, Haseena Azmuth, Mohsina Aboo Moola and Jamila Ebrahim Shariff
Haroon Noor Mohammed was appointed as Public Relations Officer and Rudaiba Layloo as Head of HR for the same period. Joe Suleman Bhidia who was acknowledged for offering his conference facilities at no charge on numerous occasions, pledged his support to the LCSA going forward.
To the applause of all present, Nazeer Noormohamed of the Laudium Sun (Nis Media) was acknowledged for his coverage of numerous LCSA events over the years, including full page adverts of events and publication of the LCSA AGM notices free of charge. Arbee expressed the hope that the media partnership will continue to be fostered in the future.
