Sabeliwe Thela and Khanyisile Maseko.
A newly established community organisation, The Wellness Canvas, is aiming to create a lasting impact by supporting and empowering women, children, older people and people living with disabilities across the Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality (CALM).
The organisation was established in June 2026 following a conversation between founders Khanyisile Maseko and Sabeliwe Thela, who shared a vision of creating an initiative that could positively impact people in their community.
“What started as an idea quickly grew into a vision of creating a platform centred around wellness, healing, empowerment and community development,” the founders said.
They said their passion for supporting women, children and older people motivated them to create a safe space where people could heal, grow, connect and collaborate.
“We recognised that women, in particular, often go through many challenges while carrying responsibilities for their families and communities. We wanted to create a safe and supportive space where women could heal, grow, connect and collaborate,” they said.
The Wellness Canvas aims to provide access to opportunities, information, resources and support that can improve people’s wellbeing and quality of life.
Its work focuses on wellness, empowerment, education, personal and community development, social support and creating opportunities for people to grow.
The organisation is still in its early stages and is currently led by its two founders, with support from their families and friends.
“Our families have been particularly supportive, including coming together to assist us during our recent event. We also have friends who contribute their time and skills when needed,” they said.
The founders said one of their biggest challenges was funding, as the organisation was initially established using their own money.
“Greater support from businesses, organisations, government, municipalities and individuals through sponsorships, donations, resources and partnerships would make a significant difference. We are willing to do the work; we simply need more partners who are willing to walk the journey with us,” they said.
Their first major community event focused on women’s wellness, empowerment and healing.
The programme included educational sessions by representatives from the Department of Health on abuse and mental health. Faith and Healing Surgery also contributed to the mental health discussion, while Fitness Masters provided a stretching and wellness session.
Women also received massages, while women-owned businesses shared their entrepreneurial experiences.
One of the highlights was a painting and healing session, where women were encouraged to express themselves creatively and paint where they saw themselves going in life.
The organisation is now preparing for its next initiative in November, targeting approximately 500 young people aged between 16 and 20 in CALM.
The initiative will focus on personal development, wellness, empowerment and exposing young people to opportunities.
The Wellness Canvas is seeking sponsors and partners to assist with venue hire, funding, equipment, branding, printing, refreshments, transport and other logistical requirements.
The founders are also calling for mentorship, skills-development opportunities, internships, learnerships and workplace exposure for young people.
They are also seeking assistance with developing a website and social media platforms to improve their visibility and communication with the community.
Maseko is an event organiser, DJ and co-owner of Fitness Masters Gymnasium, while Thela is the founder of Hairline Rebirth, City Girl Lashes and Busy Mooiplaas Guest House.
The Wellness Canvas can be contacted on 072 922 8167 or 072 672 8103.
“We are looking to build long-term partnerships rather than once-off support. When government, businesses, professionals, educational institutions and community organisations work together, we can create sustainable opportunities that empower young people and contribute positively to the future of our community,” the founders said.
