18 couples along with family boarded a boat headed towards the Robben Island to get married, some have been waiting 15 years to tie the knot
The Robben Island Museum in partnership with the Department of Home Affairs hosted 18 lucky and in love couples to have their beautiful wedding day on the Island. The celebrations took place on the day of love, Valentine’s Day.
The couples were all selected because they could not afford a wedding of their own. The Museum offered each couple a wedding ceremony and then at the end of all the ceremonies, a large wedding reception was thrown for all the newly married couples and their families.
“Today marked a beautiful milestone for both us and the couples as they embarked on a new journey together, whilst we celebrate 20 successful years as a museum. We are proud to be sharing this moment with ordinary South Africans and to further strengthen our ties with the Department of Home Affairs” says the Infrastructure and Facilities Executive Manager of Robben Island Museum, Gershon Manana.
“Having played a significant role in the lives of 36 individuals, we are more confident in our efficient service offering. Strong, healthy marriages are the foundation of healthy families and a healthy society. Our marriage officers were there to ensure that couples had all the necessary requirements/documents in place; now we wish them all the best for life ahead.” said the Minister of Home Affairs, Malusi Gigaba.
Some of the couples that tied the knot have waited over 10 years to become legal ‘man and wife’. Charleen Lene Hill and Ricardo Henry met 10 years ago when they worked together. Charleen worked in the company canteen and knew the way to a man’s heart was through his stomach and always put in extra food for Ricardo. When asked why they wanted to get married Ricardo said,
“They love each other very much. They have been through tough times and Charleen has always stood by him, she is his pillar of strength. She is amazing, has a caring heart and put others first. Charleen’s birthday is also on the 14th February.”
Watch the amazing video below:
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