Four join the Rotary fold

Majuba Rotary increased its numbers by four last Wednesday evening.

Michelle Boyd, Thokozani Sokhela, Clara du Plessis and Sakkie du Plessis joined the charitable fold at a formal induction at the Newcastle Club, hosted over three courses of dinner.

The evening was opened with a welcome from master of ceremonies, Monty Maritz.

Daniel Couper recited the objectives of Rotary, leading into an opening prayer and toasts from three established Rotarians.

In his toast to Rotary, Vinod Karsan gave a brief overview of the organisation.

“You can meet people worldwide and be welcomed by a Rotarian.”

Drikkie Coetzee, in a toast to country, quoted former American president, Abraham Lincoln, speaking on a man who loved his country.

Finally, Umesh Jivan provided a toast to women.

“If you compare a woman to a tree, which part are they? The lady is the root, because without her, there is no nourishment or sustenance. Women serve the same function in society and in Rotary.”

After mains, Majuba Rotary chairman, Johan Wagner and founding member, Gordon Dowsett presented certificates and badges to the four new Rotarians.

Mr Wagner welcomed them as ‘friends in diversity’.

“From Rotary’s point of view, an invite is an honour, and I hope you feel the same,” Mr Dowsett added.

Before dessert was served, Mr Sokhela was asked to summarise his experiences with Majuba Rotary, a journey which began in 2015.

He highlighted the welcoming attitude of all local Rotarians.

“This is a good cause and I am happy to have joined,” he said.

Concluding proceedings, Mr Wagner explained Majuba Rotary aimed for 40 members by June this year, and current membership was at 29.

Three major projects have since been allocated for funding, he added.

These include an electricity conversion project at La Gratitude, local feedings schemes and a blanket drive.

“We must all go out and find the need.”