Bethesda Childrens Home- Update and Thanks

Just a quick blog post about a wonderful Children's Home in Soweto called Bethesda that is run by the Salvation Army. I have written about them before but just thought I would write a quick update as Past Experiences has decided to adopt the home and help out when ever we can!

Choosing the right cupcake is very important!

Firstly I would like to use the opportunity to thank all those that have made donations in time, goods or financially. We put a note on Facebook just before Christmas asking for any donations and could not believe how generous all our Past Experiences customers (lets rather call them friends) were! We received R2000 in donations from individuals, families and corporates. We were also completely bowled over by those who attended our end of year Christmas party at the home! You were such a help and I cannot thank you enough.


We had a party, made party hats, had lunch, played and danced with the kids! We also just spent time with them which I think is the most important thing! They just love being hugged and talked to! The kids and staff at the home (particularly the most awesome matron Captain Nomsa) are just so fantastic and you cannot but feel absolutely swept up in the excitement and craziness of over 30 kids when you visit!

We did not spend all of the donations on the party but rather decided to buy a few items that they needed after the festive season. They decided on school shirts and underwear so 2 weeks ago we went out and bought 2 huge bags for them.

Play time at Bethesda

Last week Monday we went and dropped them off and also threw a small birthday party for the kids whose Birthday it has been in the last 3 months. Captain Nomsa supplied birthday gifts and we supplied cake, hot dogs and ice cream. It is definitely going to have to be a regular event as one little boy asked if we were coming back for his Birthday in July- I had to answer yes!

Our guide Tania has also come up with the best idea- we will be visiting the home on Easter weekend for an Easter Egg hunt so any chocolate donations are most welcome!

My dad Gerald and Past Experiences Big Boss chatting to the kids- they loved him!
He had a congo line going and some really mad dancing

We hope to make visiting the kids a regular event so any donations (clothes etc are welcome) as we are a small family business and can only do so much!

Thanks again to all those that donated!

Please contact us for any details on past.experiences@hotmail.com

A Much Belated Post on the Neighbourhoodgoods Market, Braamfontein

Neighbourhoodgoods Market

Yes I know, I am behind the times but I have been meaning to write a post on the market for months, so here it is!

The Inner City has been lucky enough in the last few months to have a couple of weekend markets open up. Although I think they are great, my favourite is definitely the Neighbourhoodgoods Market situated in Braamfontein.

The best cupcakes in town!

It is open every Saturday from 09h00 to 15h00 and it is the perfect way to spend a Saturday morning. It is also playing a huge part in the rejuvination of the Jozi Inner City as loads of people who would normally never come into the city are venturing in to experience the Market.

Past Experiences Guide Tania enjoying an Oyster at the Market

Braamfontein is fab on a Saturday and what is great is that the whole area is pumping, not just the market. From the Southpoint District and their coffee shops and restuarants to the 70 Juta precint and Kitcheners. I like how it is not surrounded by a wall but rather you really experience the city.

The Market itself is great and the food on offer is sooooo yummy! My advice when you arrive treat yourself to a Bloody Mary (the best one in Joburg) and then walk around all the stalls sampling all the delights on offer. Fabulous olives, cheese, lemonade, Ethiopian food and dont even get me started on the cupcakes!

Sue's Karoo Lemonade...so refreshing!

Why not enjoy a long lazy breakfast and a few drinks at the Market and then head over to Kitcheners (Joburg's second oldest pub) for a beer.

And of course I cant not mention, that my company Past Experiences does a fantastic 2 hour Braamfontein walk on a Saturday before the market opens, ending at the Market. Its an awesome way to start the day!

Tania with some Clients on the Braamies Walking Tour

Photo of the Week (9th to the 15th January 2012)

We have recently got to know the staff and kids at the Bethesda Children's Home in Soweto. They are AWESOME! What a special and beautiful place. We are making it our CSR programme (and personal goal) this year to visit them and help out in anyway we can. This weeks pic of the week is taken by and featuring one of my favourite people and colleague at Past Experiences Tania Olsson. I love this picture of them all having fun with their Xmas hats on and stars and glitter all over their faces. This picture was taken at Past Experiences Christmas Party. We decided that instead of having a party for the company that we would rather have one at the Children's home. It was definitely the best end of year party I have ever been to. We all made Christmas crowns together and had treats and danced. I must also thank all the amazing people out their who donated their time and goods/ money. We couldn't have done it without you!

Tania and the Kids at the Bethesda Childrens Home (picture by Tania Olsson)

Photo of the Week (28th November- 4th December)

A huge apology for not updating in a while. Working full time and doing my Masters doesn't leave me much time. That said I really should try and update more. So here is a quick photo!

Cafe Riche in the Pretora Inner City

OK so I know this isn't about Joburg but Past Experiences has recently extended into the Pretoria CBD. This is one of the oldest Cafe's in PTA and very unique as it has some Art Nouveau finishes. Rare for Gauteng.

Photo of the Week (26th September to 2 October 2011)



Graffiti in Newtown

 I have chosen this image as I love the Graffiti in Newtown, it is like walking through an art gallery. It is just so stunning and I chose this one as I love the skull. Our guide Tania did a Public Art Tour that included this over the weekend.

Training the Southpoint Cool Kids

Owning the Westcliff Hotel

In the last few weeks we have trained 8 Southpoint students to help us with our tours. Southpoint own over 20 buildings in the Braamfontein District of the inner city, majority of which are student housing.

They have thousands of students in the area, which has really changed (for the better) the vibe and feel of Braamfontein. They also own bars, restaurants, a hotel and venues in the area.

We decided to train some students as we needed help with bigger events and corporate groups. Their role is to look after guests and help the guides out on the day.

Southpoint recommended 8 students to us, who are absolutely top notch varsity students. Responsible and with a huge amount of energy, enthusiasm and personality...they are the perfect fit for Past Experiences!




Lunch after our corporate event



If anyone is looking for students to help with events etc, let us know...these guys are awesome!



Awesome Pre- Jozi Pride Event happening this week