WATCH: Alberton Lions usher in new era as Ana Ferreira takes over presidency
The Alberton Lions Club honoured outstanding volunteers, announced its new board and reflected on a year that saw thousands of people benefit from its community projects.
The Alberton Lions Club celebrated the induction of its new president for the 2026/2027 Lionistic year during a ceremony at Reading Country Club, where members reflected on another successful year of community service while recognising those who have made a significant contribution to the club.
Outgoing president Lion Mukesh Dayah officially handed over the chain of office to Lion Ana Ferreira, marking the start of a new chapter for the club.
The evening was attended by Alberton Lions members, special guests such as president Lara de Wet of the Edenvale Lions Club and her partner; as well as president Natalie Laas of the Jacaranda Lions Club.
Awards recognise outstanding service,
Several members and supporters were honoured for their dedication and service during the evening.
• Club awards
Lion of the year: Lion Helen Britz
Project of the year: Lion Sandy King
• Louis Volks Awards for outstanding humanitarian service (2025/2026)
Outgoing president Lion Mukesh Dayah
Lion Sandy King
• Certificates of appreciation
Graham King – Glenanda Primary School
Steve Dwarika – Focus
Gavin and Bongi – Reading Country Club
• Special award of appreciation
Lion Keith Holliman, in recognition of his exceptional contribution and dedication to the club.
• New board takes office
The Alberton Lions Club also introduced its board for the 2026/2027 Lionistic year:
President is Ana Ferreira, vice president and marketing chair Riekie Foster, secretary Jiri Uchytil, membership chair Tinus Voges, service chair Sandra Human, vision chair Sandy King, fundraising chair Melinda Strydom, LCIF chair Ian King, lion tamer Jim Wilson, immediate past presiden Mukesh Dayah and club directors are George Foster and Lucia Wilso.
Community thanks Lions for their impact
Speaking during the event, Graham King of Glenanda Primary School thanked the Alberton Lions Club for the difference it continues to make in the community.
“The interest that you generate for those less fortunate or those in need and just generally in the community is unbelievable. As a community member myself, thank you so much for all that you do and the great work that you do. Keep it up, it goes a very, very long way,” he said.
@albertonrecord Speaking during the event, Graham King of Glenanda Primary School thanked the Alberton Lions Club for the difference it continues to make in the community. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
Dayah reflects on his presidency
Reflecting on his term as president, Dayah thanked everyone who had supported him over the past two years and encouraged Ferreira to lead with compassion.
“Continue to serve with your heart. That’s what this organisation is all about. Serve with your heart and be true to yourself,” he said.
He said his motto, Strength in Oneness, reflected the unity that had enabled the club to achieve so much.
“We have 365 days in a year, and this club in the last year did 373 days of service collectively. When you start thinking about it, that is non-stop service for 24 hours a day for 373 days. That’s amazing,” he said.
@albertonrecord Outgoing president Lion Mukesh Dayah officially handed over the chain of office to Lion Ana Ferreira, marking the start of a new chapter for the club. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
Dayah also thanked Lion Melinda Strydom for her support as secretary and cabinet secretary.
“Thank you for keeping me on track,” he said with a laugh.
He also acknowledged the role his sponsor, Lion Ian King, had played in his personal growth.
“These two years I feel like, as a person and a leader, I have grown immensely. Thank you so much.”
Becoming emotional, Dayah reflected on the community’s response after the club announced he would be stepping down.
“The comments blew my mind because I don’t see myself in that way. I’m just me. If my dad was here, he would be proud of me,” he said.
A year of service to the community
During Dayah’s period, the Alberton Lions Club recorded one of its most impactful years of community service.
Through its hunger alleviation initiatives, the club provided meals and food assistance to 31 409 people, while its broader humanitarian projects benefited a further 10 196 people.
@albertonrecord The Alberton Lions Club honoured outstanding volunteers, announced its new board and reflected on a year that saw thousands of people benefit from its community projects. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
The club also prioritised eye health by conducting vision screenings for close to 7 500 people, ensuring that those in need received life-changing spectacles.
These achievements were made possible through the dedication of club members, who collectively volunteered 8 965 hours over the past 12 months, the equivalent of more than 373 continuous days of service.
Looking back on these milestones, Dayah said they have proven what could be achieved when members worked together with a shared purpose.
Looking ahead
Ferreira, who has been a member of the Alberton Lions Club for three years, now takes over the leadership of the organisation.
Dayah said he is confident the club will continue building on its successes under her guidance.
The Alberton Lions Club also thanked local businesses, volunteers and residents for their continued support over the past two years and encouraged anyone interested in supporting its work to follow the club’s Facebook page for information on upcoming projects and opportunities to get involved.
