Cape Town International Kite Festival returns this weekend to spotlight mental health

Now in its 31st year, the Cape Town International Kite Festival has long been a symbol of hope, resilience, and unity. This year’s event celebrates the bravery it takes to face life’s challenges, especially when it comes to mental health difficulties.

Organised annually by Cape Mental Health, the festival has been a beacon for mental health awareness since 1994.

The event invites people of all ages and backgrounds to lift their eyes to the sky and take part in a shared experience that is as beautiful as it is meaningful. Each soaring kite represents not only creativity and freedom but also the courage it takes to speak up, seek help, and support others on their mental health journeys.

Barbara Meyer of Cape Mental Health says, "There's something new to see every year. This year, we also have live entertainment and Mardi Gras.

"We are one of the few organisations that offer free community-based mental health services. We do face-to-face counselling, virtual counselling, we have social workers who'l come visit you in your own home, and we've got groups that people can come to. We have a huge department that helps people with intellectual disabilities and gets them into special needs schools.

"We walk that journey with you until you're old and grey. You come with us, stay with us, learn skills and get opportunities for jobs. That we do, free of charge; and we don't get much money."

The event is a fundraiser so they can continue to change lives.

Tickets are still available on Quicket and at the entrance too.

To listen to Meyer in conversation with Clarence Ford on CapeTalk's Views and News, click below: