Hope, Faith and Grace Community Project founder Kerry-Leigh Wright says it was both an honour and a privilege to receive a Paul Harris Fellow Award at the Rotary E-Club of East Rand’s induction and recognition luncheon.

Nominated by Rotarian Siobheanne Landsberg, Wright was one of five recipients recognised for their outstanding contributions to the community at the event held at Grid and Grill in Rynfield on April 18.

“I’m really surprised. It’s a huge honour,” she said.

Wright, who is from Springs, described her relationship with Rotary as “extraordinary”, recalling how the organisation was the first she approached when her centre was still just an idea.

“Before I even had my centre, they were the first organisation I presented it to. Since then, we’ve built a strong relationship. From 2018, we’ve worked on several projects together, and when I established the centre, their focus shifted to supporting the youth we serve,” she said.

Based in Pollak Park, the centre grew out of Wright’s early involvement in outreach initiatives and feeding schemes. It has since developed into a vital support structure for vulnerable young people, currently caring for 45 youths.

“When I started, we focused on feeding schemes and school ministries. We identified a significant gap for young people aged 18 to 24. When they leave foster care, many have nowhere to go. A large number end up on the streets, where they are exposed to crime and substance abuse,” she explained.

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“Even through our youth club, we saw that after counselling, many returned to unsafe environments or abusive situations. That’s when we realised the need for a centre – a safe space where we can educate, train and help reintegrate them into society.”

Other award recipients included Startime Players chairperson Vivian McDonald, nominated by club president Heather Smithard; dietician Johannita Cox, Rotarians Landsberg and Smithard, nominated by Past District Governor Annie Steijn.

Smithard described McDonald as a phenomenal leader in the creative space.

“Over more than two decades, she has directed around 23 musicals and reviews. Her knowledge and leadership consistently ensure highly professional productions. She is well known for bringing out the best in her cast, regardless of their role,” said Smithard.

The organisation also welcomed back former Rotarian Derek Fox and introduced new members Ashleigh and Louise Schaap.

Steijn said the Paul Harris recognition function remains one of Rotary’s most meaningful traditions.
“It makes gratitude visible. Rotary is about ‘service above self’. The award links a $1 000 (approximately R16 000) contribution to the Rotary Foundation directly to a person’s name. It is Rotary’s way of saying, ‘your service mattered,” she said.

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