Abbey-Jade Reason of the Apricot Tree, Alison Etherington of Clean Projects, and the Homestead Helpers for Benoni’s Nina Visser were honoured with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow award by the Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora at on February 27.

The trio was recognised for their unwavering commitment to uplifting the community and for the meaningful, lasting impact of their work in environmental conservation and changing lives for the better.

“The Paul Harris recognition is one of Rotary’s highest accolades, a distinction that carries global respect and deep meaning. Named after Paul Harris, the founder of Rotary, it honours individuals whose lives and leadership embody our enduring motto: Service Above Self.

“Our three recipients have stood out not only as worthy awardees, but as exceptional human beings whose character, humility, and commitment to service reflect the very values Rotary strives to uphold,” said president Peter Herweg.

Reason was honoured to receive the award.

“It’s amazing to be awarded this, not because of the award but more for what it stands for – that community members can see each other, work together and recognise each other so that we can continue doing good work,” she said.

“I wouldn’t be able to be where I am or do what I do without the support of Apricot Tree founder Errol Treacher, as well as our amazing dedicated staff. What makes what I do so rewarding is the special children and young adults who have beautiful souls.”

Referring to how Clean Projects changed her life, Etherington said, “I never thought I would be doing this in my life. My husband started it. He’s the crazy person. I follow rules. I would never do something like this. I had to break many rules and now I do it.”

Visser said they didn’t anticipate that the organisation would make such a positive impact when they began their work cleaning around Homestead Dam.

“This was a surprise for all of us. It’s pushed us out of our comfort zones doing things we never thought we could do. It’s the challenges we were presented with that we decided to not let them ruin our environment, livelihood and beautiful neighbourhood,” Visser said.

Herweg said the club was honoured to bestow the recognition on the trio, adding that they are proud of the work they do in the community.

“I stand in awe of their dedication and the measurable difference they continue to make. On behalf of the Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora and the greater Benoni community, I proudly congratulate each recipient.

“We are deeply honoured to bestow this prestigious recognition. But even more so, we are proud to partner with such extraordinary individuals.”

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