Valentine's Day celebration in Lavender Hill: A vibrant community spirit

In the month of love, the Light in the Darkness Church, in Lavender Hill, transformed the grey flats courts into a vibrant red celebration of unity, faith, and community spirit on Saturday, February 14.

In an area often overshadowed by violence and hardship, more than 200 residents from Lavender Hill and surrounding neighbourhoods gathered for a gala-style afternoon filled with music, food, and fellowship.

The courts, often associated with conflict, were symbolically “repainted” in red to represent love and renewal. The programme featured a cabaret-style performance of The Greatest Love of All, while the Blessed Women in Christ delivered inspiring acts, and meals and pastries were served to young and old alike.

Community leader Clive Jacobs said the event showed the power of reclaiming public spaces for positivity and hope. “These courts are too often seen as war zones, but on Saturday they were covered in red - and that red stood for love,” he said.

“The message was simple but powerful: love your neighbour and choose kindness. When women, men and children can come together in one space like this, it proves that we can build the kind of change our community truly needs.”