The Haven Place Foundation (HPF) successfully transformed Axim into a hub of joy, worship, and economic opportunity this past December. From December 8th to 15th, 2025, HPF hosted a multi-faceted festive program designed to blend the spirit of the season with tangible community empowerment.
Planning began in September, ensuring that every activity, from the bright lights of Victoria Park to the hands-on workshops at the HPF office was built on a foundation of local collaboration. Working alongside the Traditional Local Council, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), and the Council of Churches, HPF ensured that “Christmas in Axim” was a true community-led triumph.
A Vision of Joy and Growth
The initiative was guided by a mission to do more than just celebrate; it aimed to build a lasting impact. The core objectives included:
- Creating a safe, festive sanctuary for children to play and grow.
- Fostering unity and social interaction across the Axim community.
- Empowering local women through practical, income-generating vocational skills.
- Providing spiritual reflection through traditional worship and carols.
Highlights of the Week
- Women’s Skills Training: Tools for Independence
At the HPF office, 30 local women participated in a rigorous two-day hands-on workshop. This wasn’t just a demonstration; it was a comprehensive masterclass in production and business. Participants learned to manufacture:
- Liquid soap and bar soap
- Fabric softener (After Wash)
- Medicinal ointments
Beyond the chemistry of production, training on safety precautions, packaging, and startup orientation was provided to all participants. To ensure these skills turn into sustainable businesses, participants were also briefed on funding opportunities and scaling strategies.
- The Victoria Park Experience: Play & Commerce
Victoria Park served as the heart of the festivities. A dedicated Children’s Playground, adorned with festive lighting and Christmas trees, provided a supervised space for children to engage in teamwork and creative play.
Adjacent to the laughter of the playground, the Christmas Bazaar offered a vibrant marketplace. Families accessed affordable food and holiday essentials, while the women from the training program had their first opportunity to showcase and sell their newly created products to the community.
- A Night of Nine Lessons and Carols
The program reached its spiritual peak on Sunday, December 14th. The community gathered for a Nine Lessons and Carols service, featuring scripture readings and a mix of traditional and contemporary hymns. The evening offered a moment of collective reflection on the themes of love, hope, and generosity.
Partnerships and Support
As the primary funder, Haven Place Foundation covered all operational costs, logistics, and materials. However, the success of the week was amplified by the generous support of corporate sponsors:
- Chickenman Pizzaman
- Growmank / Luga
- Mank and Peeva
These partners ensured that participants and staff were well-nourished with food and beverages throughout the week’s activities.
Distribution and Welfare
To foster a sense of identity and provide practical tools for the trainees, HPF distributed:
- 30 Branded T-shirts & Aprons
- 30 Branded Books & Pens
- Full catering and welfare support for all 30 trainees and the HPF staff.
“This initiative represents the core of what Haven Place Foundation stands for: bringing people together to celebrate our shared values while equipping individuals with the tools they need to thrive long after the decorations come down.”