About Dayspring Gardens
A family-founded home dedicated to providing exceptional care with compassion, dignity, and respect.
Who We Are
Dayspring Gardens was established by individuals who have worked together for many years in community service initiatives within the Johannesburg Bahá’í community. The relationships, accountability, and shared values formed through that work are the foundation of this home.
While the home is independently operated and professionally managed, it is guided by principles of dignity, service, and responsibility to the wider community. Decisions are made with long-term care in mind — not short-term gain — and with the understanding that we are entrusted with the wellbeing of people’s parents and grandparents.
Dayspring Gardens welcomes residents of all backgrounds and beliefs. Care is provided without religious expectation, and with a clear commitment to safety, transparency, and respect.
Our Team
Our small, dedicated team treats each resident as family, ensuring personalised attention and genuine relationships that enrich daily life.
Djam Bakhshandegi
Manager
Djam Bakhshandegi is a multilingual strategist with over 20 years of experience in social impact, operations, and community empowerment across Africa and internationally. She brings a thoughtful, service-oriented approach to her role at Dayspring Gardens, where she helps shape an environment rooted in dignity, love, and respect for elders. She believes deeply in the wisdom and value of older people, and works to ensure that every detail—from care routines to hospitality—reflects that philosophy. Outside of work, Djam enjoys traveling, sharing meals and laughter with loved ones, and spending time in spiritual reflection.
Sabelo Sifiso Thela
Resident Dining Chef
Sifiso Thela is the resident chef at Dayspring Gardens, known for his soulful cooking and warm, gentle nature. With experience in schools, restaurants, and care centres, he prepares meals that nourish both body and spirit. He is also trained as a caregiver, reflecting his commitment to serving others with heart and skill. Outside the kitchen, Sifiso enjoys exploring new restaurants, listening to music, and spending time with friends—always bringing joy and warmth wherever he goes.
Dr. Roya Shams-Razaghi
Co-Founder & Medical Advisor
Roya Shams is a family doctor with over 40 years of experience in family medicine. Caring for her own parents at home shaped her understanding of how important a safe, stable, and dignified environment is in later life. She brings this perspective to her role at Dayspring Gardens, where her expertise in primary healthcare and chronic disease management supports residents with warmth and dedication. Beyond her medical work, she enjoys gardening—having planted many of the flowers on the property—and continues to serve communities through mentoring and training.
Dr. Sina Parastaran
Medical Advisor
Sina Parastaran is a medical doctor with a master’s degree in public health, focused on social and behaviour change. He works in both family and emergency medicine, and has led community programs around lifestyle modification and support groups. He serves as a visiting physician at Dayspring Gardens, where he provides gentle, attentive care to residents. With a warm and compassionate manner, he brings clinical expertise and heartfelt dedication to supporting their health and wellbeing. Outside of work, Sina enjoys hiking, playing soccer, listening to music, and spending time with family—often with a good book nearby.
Lecture Mutoko
Caregiver
Lecture Mutoko was first recruited to care for one of the Founders’ elderly parents, and quickly became a trusted and beloved member of the Dayspring Gardens team. Calm, caring, and curious, he is trained in homecare skills and supports residents with both gentle attention and practical know-how. Lecture is also a talented gardener and handyman, always ready to lend a hand. Outside of work, Lecture enjoys gospel music, movies, and quiet time in prayer—grounding his life in faith and joy.
Shei Goldberg
Technical Support
Shei Goldberg handles the technical support for Dayspring Gardens, including the website and IT systems. His focus is on keeping things simple, reliable, and out of the way so the work of care can happen without friction. He is glad to support an organisation dedicated to providing a safe, warm, and welcoming home for people in their later years, and values contributing in a practical, behind-the-scenes way.
Ready to Learn More?
Schedule a visit to experience the Dayspring Gardens difference firsthand. We'd love to show you around and answer all your questions.