10/09/2026
Last night, Moira‑Ann Odendaal was honoured as the Active Volunteer of the Year in the Museums, Heritage and Geographical Names Sector at the Western Cape Cultural Affairs Awards 2026 — a province‑wide celebration of cultural, linguistic and heritage excellence.
This award is a reflection of years of dedication, quiet leadership and the unwavering commitment she brings to her work at the museum. It recognises the impact she has made not only within our community, but across the Western Cape’s cultural landscape.
We are profoundly proud of her. Delighted for her. And deeply grateful for everything she has poured into this work — the hours, the heart, the vision, the persistence.
Moira, this achievement is so deserved.
And in her own words, Moira captures the spirit of this achievement and the people who have walked beside her:
“I’m bringing this award home, but I know it was never achieved by me alone.
It is a reflection of all the wonderful people who have walked alongside me over the years, supported me, encouraged me, opened doors for me and believed in me.
So, while I may be the one bringing it home, this award belongs to all of you too.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
And then there is my husband — my greatest supporter of all.
He often thinks I’m taking on far too much, but by now he knows that I simply don’t take ‘no’ for an answer. So, when I come up with yet another ambitious idea, he fills his pipe, leans back, takes a long, deep puff and starts thinking about how he is going to help me make it happen.
And, to everyone’s great amusement — including his own — he tells people that he carries tranquilizers in his pocket to cope with me.
But behind all the laughter is a man who has supported me, believed in me and stood beside me through it all.”
Moira, congratulations on this remarkable honour. Your work has shaped stories, preserved heritage and opened doors for countless people. You have given your time, your energy and your passion with generosity and grace, and this award stands as a testament to all you have built.
Thank you for your hard work, your commitment and the spirit you bring to every project. We are proud beyond measure and privileged to celebrate this moment with you.
Moira-Ann Seal Odendaal 🩶
