Emotion overcame programme director Donna Andrews as she paid tribute to outgoing Rotary Club of Benoni Van Ryn president Derick Watson, whose leadership left a lasting impression on members during the past year.

“We thank you for leading the Rotary Club of Benoni Van Ryn with dedication,” an emotional Andrews said.

The heartfelt tribute set the tone for the club’s annual induction ceremony at Carisbrooke Lifestyle Centre on June 13, where Watson handed over the reins to incoming president Bob Andrews and Rotary Anns president Maria Pinho.

Natural born leader

Watson was hailed as a natural-born leader by Andrews, who said the club would continue building on the strong foundation laid during the outgoing president’s term.

“Derick, when we first suggested you do a stint as president, you gave an emphatic no. I am sure everybody in Rotary circles will agree that you did exceptionally well. You are a natural-born leader. Well done,” he said.

Andrews said the club would align its strategy with the goals of Rotary’s global and regional leadership, maintaining the focus on growth and community impact championed by Watson.

He added that, together with board members Watson, Charmaine Cole-Niven, Cheryl Gallagher, Yvonne Holmes and Christa Valentine, the aim would be to expand the club’s reach and strengthen its impact in the community.

“I remember when I was asked to become president, I said I would not do it without this team. Together, we will continue where Derick left off, grow our club and increase our impact in the community,” he said.

Among some of Watson’s achievements in the past year are the successful completion of several projects aimed at addressing local community needs, supporting youth development and vocational excellence and support for the Rotary Foundation.

“I would like to thank the board of directors, committee chairs, members, sponsors, partners and volunteers for their dedication and support throughout the year. The achievements highlighted in my report are the result of a collective effort and commitment.

“As we hand over leadership to the incoming president and board, I am confident the club is well-positioned to continue making a positive difference in our community and beyond,” Watson said.

The club also welcomed new members, Shaun Carter and Paddy Ansell.

Anns

Pinho revealed that the presidency will be shared quarterly between herself, Judy Bath, Sally Matthee and Elaine Stathacopoulos.

The Anns will continue their support for Dr Agnes and the Salvation Army, as well as their Winter Warmth project, and will be undertaking several new projects in the next 12 months.

The new committee includes outgoing president Gill Davey, Bath, Maureen Fox, Stella Viljoen and Priscilla Fuller.

“I look forward to working with you all and having a happy and successful year,” said Pinho.

In her report, the outgoing Davey highlighted their successful projects, including providing provisions for Angel Wings, lenses for Dr Agnes at OR Tambo and helping out at the Kruger National Park disaster.

“It gives me great pleasure to call on Maria and wish her well for her term of office,” Davey said.

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