WHO WE ARE
INDLELA MENTAL HEALTH
Indlela Mental Health was established in 1939 in response to the needs highlighted by learning partners with intellectual disabilities and psychosocial disabilities and their families. From the onset, the organisation rendered holistic services, not discriminating on basis of race or religion.
The organisation was instrumental in advocating for and establishing schools for children with intellectual disability – many now under Department of Education. We recognise that all persons with mental disabilities have potential and assets that are still not fully recognized.
The organisation is governed by a board consisting of representatives from the community as well as service users.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
OUR VISION & MISSION
Our vision is that all people are valued, accepted and enjoy mental wellbeing.
Our mission is to create a dynamic movement that promotes mental wellbeing and resilience in the Eastern Cape. We facilitate training, skills development and community-driven support networks that unlock local resources and inspire innovation amongst learning partners. We further advocate for inclusion and rights protection of people with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities.
WHAT WE DO
OUR PROGRAMMES & SERVICES
Indlela Mental Health is pleased to facilitate comprehensive community-based mental health services for those with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities as well as their families.
UNITE
Together for Social Inclusion
Uprooting negativity, inspiring tolerance, and empowerment against stigma & bullying.
ILIZWI
The Voice
Community-Based Social Work Support Services & Development.
SIYAPHAMBILI
Moving Forward
Psychosocial Rehabilitation Centres located in Gqeberha.
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MASAKHANE
Let’s Build Together
Adolescent / Youth Skills Development & Supportive Employment.
A TRIBUTE TO OUR FORMER DIRECTOR
SHELDINE SEPTOE
Indlela Mental Health deeply mourns the loss of Sheldine Septoe, an exceptional individual whose indelible mark on our lives and workplace is profound. Esteemed colleague, mentor, friend, and an enduring inspiration – Sheldine dedicated 35 years to Indlela Mental Health (formerly PE Mental Health). Starting as a social worker, her dedication propelled her through management roles, culminating in her impactful leadership as Director from 2002 to 2017.
Sheldine’s tireless work ethic and deep understanding of the Mental Health sector were unmatched. A true pioneer, she expertly guided our organization’s evolution from a welfare-based model to a developmental approach post-1994, a natural progression from her social work roots.
Her professionalism and unwavering commitment to the growth of others were truly inspiring. She possessed a remarkable ability to see potential, fostering confidence and guiding countless individuals through personal and professional challenges with patience, wisdom, and profound kindness.
I vividly recall my first encounter with Sheldine in 2008, a nervous newcomer instantly put at ease by her warm smile and encouraging words. Over the years, she was a constant source of support and insightful advice. Today, the memory of a card I wrote in 2009 fills me with emotion, thanking her for the incredible opportunity to accompany her to the SA Federation for Mental Health in Johannesburg – my very first flight, made possible by her belief in me. Thank you, Sheldine, for being such a significant presence on my journey these past 19 years.
Sheldine’s impact on my life and countless others within and beyond the Mental Health field is immeasurable. She instilled in us the values of hard work, integrity, and unwavering compassion. Her legacy will resonate through the many lives she touched and the enduring ripple effect of her kindness.
With heavy hearts, we bid farewell, yet our gratitude for Sheldine’s extraordinary contributions to our lives and Indlela Mental Health is immense. Her legacy will continue to flourish through the lives she enriched, the impactful projects she championed, and the culture of excellence she so diligently cultivated.
On behalf of the entire Indlela Mental Health team, including our board members, staff and learning partners, we extend our deepest gratitude for her exceptional leadership, profound compassion, and steadfast commitment to creating a better world. Sheldine was more than a leader; she was a role model, a true change maker, and an enduring inspiration. Her lessons in service, empathy, and the power of community will remain with us, shaping our lives and our community for years to come.
Sheldine, we pledge to honour your remarkable legacy through our continued dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of the most vulnerable in our society.
Yours in continued service excellence,
Limeez Botha
Director: Indlela Mental Health
ASSOCIATE FEEDBACK
TESTIMONIALS
We could not do it without you! Our stakeholders, donors, learning partners remain central to Indlela Mental Health being at the forefront of service provision in community based mental health and skills development in Gqeberha. The impact of our dedication is evident in the stories we hear from our partners every day. Here we share just a few testimonials:
Khatala Project has done sterling work within our communities in general and with youth in schools in particular. You were able to do early identification of barriers to learning and provided an early intervention through the Psycho-Social support. As the Department of Education, we are saying your meaningful and valuable contribution to our schools and for learners with intellectual disabilities will not go unnoticed. We are looking forward to a long and lasting relationship with Indlela Mental Health. MR AS NOGAGA |
I was overwhelmed by the welcome I received from Siyaphambili-Capricorn and Herberg on my arrival at the Rehab Centre. I was able to share my life journey through singing and hoping to inspire the residents. But I was left inspired and filled with joy. It remains a highlight for me. REGGIE HUFKIE |
Just a big, big, THANK YOU. It is so much easier, more friendly, affable, and approachable when one meets together and sees the faces, hears the story, and experiences the valued input. I know that the Indlela reach-out is tremendous and far-reaching, and although times are hard, you work and pull together as a team, and touch many hearts. There are just so many out there, so in need, not always for a stomach to be filled, but for guidance, assurance, some love, support, and direction...and just knowing that someone cares. That’s who you are, and that’s what you give. Thanks. Enkosi. Baie Dankie. MAUREEN |
IFM South Africa has been proud to support Indlela Mental Health and has assisted with funding since 2017. Indlela Mental Health as an organisation meets the requirements needed for IFM South Africa to meet our SED obligations. Also, we have always been confident that Indlela Mental Health works in the community trying to make a difference in the lives of people with mental disabilities. Indlela has been operating since 1939 thus confirming the need for organisations like this. Over all the years that we have been donating to Indlela, I would also like it to be noted that dealing with Sharon Stewart, the organisation's Financial Manager, has always given us peace of mind. ALWYN SKELTON
MANAGING DIRECTOR, IFB
A valued partner with expert knowledge in the field of mental health is synonymous with Indlela Mental Health. Their constant & steadfast quest to enhance mental well-being across communities, with special reference to a group so often frowned upon, is admirable and applauded. Wishing IMH all the best with their future endeavors. RENEE SYMONS
SOCIAL WORK MANAGER, RESTORATIVE SERVICES & NPO MANAGEMENT