Well-loved founder of Emmaüs passes on
Nadia Harris, well-loved ex-Georgian and founder of Emmaüs, died peacefully at her home in Cape Town on Saturday 20 July.
Harris will be remembered for her achievements as director of the Southern Cape Mental Health Society. This included the fundraising and introduction of the first mental health mobile clinic in South Africa as well as the founding of Emmaüs, which was the first multi-diagnostic protective workshop in the world.
Today, the centre stands as a testimony to her hard work and boasts a hostel, workshop and administrative buildings. In addition to 48 permanent residents,
85 workers attend daily to receive therapeutic stimulation and learn new skills.
Harris was born in Leeds in the UK in 1931 and came to South Africa when she was 18. After she and her husband, Felix, moved to George in
1957 as newlyweds, Nadia rapidly became a stalwart in the community, and was involved in many aspects of the development of the town. "Mom Caledon", as she was known, was a founder member of the George Nursery School as well as a keen actress. She also volunteered for many years at the George Museum. In addition, she was involved in many charitable causes as member of Rotary Club.
A keen horserider, she spent much time volunteering at the George Riding Club and in later years was often seen out riding her beloved horse, Green Beret.
Nadia lived in George for 36 years and only moved to Cape Town after the death of her husband in 1992, to be closer to her son and three daughters. Her husband, Felix, was senior partner at Millers Attorneys, originally known as Miller and Harris.