Rotary Club of Joburg hosts their 100th presidential induction
NORTHCLIFF – Awards handed out during the rotary clubs 100th induction on the African continent.
The Rotary Club of Johannesburg celebrated its 100th induction on the African continent on 4 July during a virtual meeting.
In an event filled with many faces and smiles, kind words and cherished memories between club members, live entertainment and goals for the future, the club elected Carol Alexander as Rotary Ann’s President, James Lowan as St Stithians Boys College Interact Club President and Nadine Mitchley as The Rotaract Club of the University of Johannesburg. Current club president Grace van Zyl will continue in her position for the second year in a row.
The club’s members and outgoing executive team were present to ensure a fitting induction. Guests were also lucky enough to be serenaded by the lovely sounds of Jacques Lagesse while Kyle Parker did an excellent job hosting the event. Van Zyl said, “We have had some amazing collaborations with different organisations and rotary clubs to provide food, clothing, human resources and other necessities needed.” This along with increased membership, social media followers and many other successfully hosted projects, gives the club the confidence that they are heading in the right direction, she added.
The ceremony was held online due to the Covid-19 pandemic but this was proof that the club had learnt to adapt during this time. Member Mutendi Sambaza said, “With the help of our powerful social media platforms, we were able to collect about R21 000 electronically for our cause as the Interact Club.”The club had also partnered with the Johannesburg Organisation of Services to the Homeless to host two clothing collection drives to provide warm winter clothing and blankets for disadvantaged children and adults. Sambaza complimented the club for being able to continue their efforts towards change regardless of the challenges they faced.
The event was also used to bestow special Rotary awards. The prestigious Paul Harris Fellow was awarded to Robert Stone, and Ivan and Avril Allan who have, over the decades, given the club guidance and showed commitment to the club’s motto, Service above self. Chrisna Broadway was bestowed the Service Above Self Award for all the administrative and financial support she gave to the club.
