In the corridors of Sunfield Home, where the gentle hum of creativity mingles with the laughter of newfound joy, Pam weaves a tapestry of love and dedication. She is not one to seek the spotlight; instead, her heart beats in rhythm with the residents she serves, each thread of her story intertwined with theirs.
In fact, Pam would much rather be behind the scenes, hands full of ribbon and paintbrushes, quietly helping someone discover that yes, they can create something beautiful. But if you ask anyone at Sunfield Home, they’ll tell you: Pam’s presence is a gift.
Her journey to Sunfield began years ago when she and Fiona worked together at Butterfly House, working with children and elderly ladies in need. Fiona saw something special in Pam and invited her to join Sunfield. At the time, finances made it tricky—but when the stars aligned in April 2024, Pam finally joined, and she’s been changing lives ever since.
Crafting From the Heart
Pam grew up in the small Northern Cape town of Postmasburg—a place where creativity had to come from within. With limited entertainment around, she turned to books, crafts, knitting, crocheting, and needlework. That childhood spark never left her. Over the years, she’s taught arts and crafts in various towns, at schools, retirement homes—you name it. Every time, she brings a spirit of curiosity and joy.
She’s the type of person who dives into a topic headfirst, researching and learning before sharing it with others.
A Glimpse Inside the Workshops
Every week, Pam leads 10 groups of residents through carefully thought-out sessions. Each group has about eight people, and they take turns creating projects over Mondays and Tuesdays. Everyone learns the same skills—everyone gets a chance.
One week, they’re turning toilet rolls into birds. Another, they’re threading beads in beautiful patterns that teach colour recognition, number sequencing, and patience. There are bookmarks and greeting cards, sun painting and tie-dye. Some residents are learning to knit or crochet with Pam’s one-on-one support.
What’s most important to Pam is making the projects accessible to every person. If someone struggles with cutting, she’ll test the craft at home first, breaking it into manageable steps. If someone doesn’t like to get their hands dirty, she’s got gloves ready. It’s never about who can’t do something—it’s about how they can.
The Difference a Craft Can Make
And the results? They’re powerful.
One particular moment stands etched in Pam’s memory—a resident from Huis Liebenberg, mastering the art of cutting with modified scissors. His sense of achievement mirrored by Pam’s own, a testament to the transformative power of patience and belief.
There’s also a resident who used to be quite restless—he’s calmed dramatically since starting the workshops. The classes don’t just build skills; they build confidence, self-worth, and friendships. The residents help each other, encourage each other, and celebrate every small victory.
More Than Just a Class
For Pam, this work is deeply personal.
“I’m so blessed to be able to work with the Lord’s special people,” she says. “I’ve got so much to be thankful for, and I’m able to share the knowledge I’ve been given.”
With a background in nursing and experience with special needs, she approaches each resident with respect and belief. “They live up to what I expect they can do—not what they can’t,” she says. It’s this mindset that creates an environment where everyone is seen, heard, and valued.
For Pam, Sunfield Home is not merely a place of work but a sanctuary of learning and gratitude. Through her experience, she has learned the true meaning of acceptance and resilience.
She sees beyond disabilities, embracing each individual for who they are. Her lessons extend beyond crafts; they embody a philosophy of inclusion and understanding.
She keeps coming back, week after week, because of the simple joy: “They’re always glad to see me. Sometimes they just need a hug—and I’ve got a whole cupboard full of hugs to hand out.”
How Others Can Help
Pam does have a helper—a mom of one of the day residents who’s now just as committed to the groups as she is. But there’s always room for more hands, more hearts. Anyone wanting to help can get in touch with Fiona, whether it’s to volunteer or donate craft materials.
Words to Live By
If you’re thinking of volunteering, Pam has a few gentle words of advice:
“Don’t judge. There’s a reason why these residents live here. Be patient. No two people are the same. Have a sense of humour—laugh with them, never at them. And leave your ‘I cant’s’ outside the door. I’ve got an invisible box for those.”
In a world that often misunderstands disability, Pam reminds us that the residents of Sunfield Home are human—beautifully emotional, deeply capable, and full of stories waiting to unfold. They didn’t ask to be here, but they deserve dignity, compassion, and a place to shine.
Thanks to Pam, they get exactly that.
As you ponder Pam’s journey, remember this—behind every craft, there lies a story of resilience, of hope, and of the unbreakable spirit that binds us all together.
