As South Africa celebrates National Women’s Day, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) is proudly honouring the remarkable women who have quietly devoted years—and in many cases decades—to protecting, restoring and revitalising Johannesburg’s parks, nature reserves and public green spaces.
While they may not seek recognition, these women have become the custodians of some of the City’s most treasured environmental assets. Their unwavering commitment has transformed neglected spaces into thriving community hubs where children can play, families can gather and nature can flourish.
Among these inspirational environmental champions is Bafikile Mkhize, whose tireless work at eKhaya Park in the heart of Hillbrow has become a shining example of community stewardship. Through her partnership with local children, soccer clubs and a local security company, she has helped retain the integrity of the park while fostering a culture of ownership, responsibility and pride in one of Johannesburg’s most densely populated communities.
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo also recognises Fran Haslam of Zoo Lake, whose dedication has helped preserve one of Johannesburg’s most iconic recreational spaces, and Shirley Tebbutt of Delta Park, whose years of passionate environmental advocacy have inspired countless residents to become active custodians of their local green spaces.
The organisation also acknowledges Karien Spottiswoode for her decades of outstanding stewardship at Kloofendal Nature Reserve, together with the many other unsung heroines across Johannesburg, including Mam Yumna, who quietly give their time, energy and hearts to protecting the City’s environmental heritage.
These women remind us that parks are not simply maintained through budgets and infrastructure alone—they flourish because of passionate people who care deeply about their communities. Their efforts demonstrate that environmental stewardship begins with ordinary citizens making extraordinary contributions.
Women have long been the gatekeepers of families, nurturing values, passing on knowledge and creating environments where communities can thrive. These same qualities make them exceptional guardians of public green spaces. They instinctively build relationships, inspire volunteerism, mentor young people and bring diverse communities together around a common purpose.
“A park frequented by women, particularly women who come alone, is considered a safe space,” said Bafikile Mkhize.
Their leadership is collaborative, compassionate and resilient, creating lasting change that extends far beyond the boundaries of a single park.
As part of the Women’s Day celebrations, JCPZ has invited families to take part in the Zoo Trot 5km Run and Walk on Sunday, 9 August 2026, at the Johannesburg Zoo. Registration opens at 07:00, with the event starting at 07:30. Entry costs R81 for adults and R50 for children under the age of 12.
The Zoo Trot provides the perfect opportunity for women to begin Women’s Day in the fresh air, surrounded by nature, while encouraging healthy lifestyles and family togetherness. It also gives dads and loved ones the opportunity to spoil these incredible women after the run or walk by spending quality time together exploring the Zoo and enjoying a memorable wildlife experience at a heavily discounted rate.
JCPZ also reminded parents and guardians that the safety of children in parks, playgrounds and at the Zoo remains of paramount importance. Children should be supervised at all times to ensure everyone enjoys these public spaces safely and responsibly.
On behalf of the MMC for Community Development, Councillor Thapelo Amad, and Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo Managing Director, Thanduxolo Mendrew, the organisation extended its heartfelt appreciation to every woman, including its valued employees, who enrich families, strengthen communities and help build a greener, cleaner and more caring Johannesburg.
“Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo wishes all women a safe, joyful and memorable Women’s Day. We thank every woman who continues to care for our parks, strengthen our communities and inspire future generations through their dedication and selfless service. Your contributions help build a greener, cleaner and more caring Johannesburg for generations to come,” said MMC for Community Development, Councillor Thapelo Amad.
As South Africa celebrates National Women’s Day, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) is proudly honouring the remarkable women who have quietly devoted years—and in many cases decades—to protecting, restoring and revitalising Johannesburg’s parks, nature reserves and public green spaces.
While they may not seek recognition, these women have become the custodians of some of the City’s most treasured environmental assets. Their unwavering commitment has transformed neglected spaces into thriving community hubs where children can play, families can gather and nature can flourish.
Among these inspirational environmental champions is Bafikile Mkhize, whose tireless work at eKhaya Park in the heart of Hillbrow has become a shining example of community stewardship. Through her partnership with local children, soccer clubs and a local security company, she has helped retain the integrity of the park while fostering a culture of ownership, responsibility and pride in one of Johannesburg’s most densely populated communities.
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo also recognises Fran Haslam of Zoo Lake, whose dedication has helped preserve one of Johannesburg’s most iconic recreational spaces, and Shirley Tebbutt of Delta Park, whose years of passionate environmental advocacy have inspired countless residents to become active custodians of their local green spaces.
The organisation also acknowledges Karien Spottiswoode for her decades of outstanding stewardship at Kloofendal Nature Reserve, together with the many other unsung heroines across Johannesburg, including Mam Yumna, who quietly give their time, energy and hearts to protecting the City’s environmental heritage.
These women remind us that parks are not simply maintained through budgets and infrastructure alone—they flourish because of passionate people who care deeply about their communities. Their efforts demonstrate that environmental stewardship begins with ordinary citizens making extraordinary contributions.
Women have long been the gatekeepers of families, nurturing values, passing on knowledge and creating environments where communities can thrive. These same qualities make them exceptional guardians of public green spaces. They instinctively build relationships, inspire volunteerism, mentor young people and bring diverse communities together around a common purpose.
“A park frequented by women, particularly women who come alone, is considered a safe space,” said Bafikile Mkhize.
Their leadership is collaborative, compassionate and resilient, creating lasting change that extends far beyond the boundaries of a single park.
As part of the Women’s Day celebrations, JCPZ has invited families to take part in the Zoo Trot 5km Run and Walk on Sunday, 9 August 2026, at the Johannesburg Zoo. Registration opens at 07:00, with the event starting at 07:30. Entry costs R81 for adults and R50 for children under the age of 12.
The Zoo Trot provides the perfect opportunity for women to begin Women’s Day in the fresh air, surrounded by nature, while encouraging healthy lifestyles and family togetherness. It also gives dads and loved ones the opportunity to spoil these incredible women after the run or walk by spending quality time together exploring the Zoo and enjoying a memorable wildlife experience at a heavily discounted rate.
JCPZ also reminded parents and guardians that the safety of children in parks, playgrounds and at the Zoo remains of paramount importance. Children should be supervised at all times to ensure everyone enjoys these public spaces safely and responsibly.
On behalf of the MMC for Community Development, Councillor Thapelo Amad, and Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo Managing Director, Thanduxolo Mendrew, the organisation extended its heartfelt appreciation to every woman, including its valued employees, who enrich families, strengthen communities and help build a greener, cleaner and more caring Johannesburg.
“Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo wishes all women a safe, joyful and memorable Women’s Day. We thank every woman who continues to care for our parks, strengthen our communities and inspire future generations through their dedication and selfless service. Your contributions help build a greener, cleaner and more caring Johannesburg for generations to come,” said MMC for Community Development, Councillor Thapelo Amad.
To the women who quietly care for Johannesburg’s parks, inspire children and protect the City’s natural heritage, thank you. Your legacy is growing in every tree planted, every child inspired and every community that chooses pride over neglect.
Picture: COJ
