Members of the community honoured

Byline: Leigh Hodgson

The Germiston Rotary Club acknowledged six members of the community for their contributions and commitment to the improvement of their community, at a meeting, on Thursday.

Those who received awards are Chris Swanepoel, André Beukes, Mahlodi Enny Mahudu, Nicoletta Lunderstedt, Vivienne Giles and Helen White.

White was recognised for her work with animals in Bellavista, Turffontein, Forest Hill and surrounding areas, in the poorer suburbs south of Johannesburg.

Currently, she feeds 200 dogs and cats and also helps with sterilising, inoculations, de-worming and tick and flea prevention.

Giles supports destitute families living in old Alberton, by collecting toiletries and jumble and then distributing to the families. She also arranges treats for them at Christmas time, as well as collecting and distributing food to those who need it within local informal settlements.

Giles works closely with both the CPF and the local police.

Beukes, the principal of Germiston High School for the last 10 years, was honoured for his work at the school.

His many achievements include giving his pupils the desire to learn, hosting regular team-building activities for his staff members and encouraging them to study further.

Mahudu was recognised for her efforts on the community’s ward committee.

She takes minutes and generally liaises with council on behalf, and for the good of the community.

Mahudu always has a smile on her face and is always available to help and offer advice.

Lunderstedt was introduced to charity work through the company outreach programmes in which she was involved.

Lunderstedt was involved in projects at schools, community centres and play groups in the townships.

When she retired, in 1993, she took on charity work full time.

A lot of her work focuses on empowering women and she organises and runs classes in beading, sewing, knitting, quilting, flower arranging, cooking and many more.

Finally, Swanepoel, the ward 36 councillor, was given an Award for Meritorious Service to recognise his 38 years of work in the various council fields.

His service delivery to the public of Germiston was also commended, as was his work in the renovation of Germiston Lake, low-cost housing and in informal settlements in the Germiston area.