Community unites to honour a selfless hero
Multiple charities around West Rand gathered to celebrate Averille Botha who was nominated for a prestigious community service award.
West Rand Multi Charities came together in a remarkable display of solidarity and gratitude to celebrate their longstanding hero, Averille Botha.
Averille is the founder and owner of Multi Charities West Rand and received a prestigious certificate at the South African Heroes Awards 2024 for her nomination for excellence in community service.
The event, held on October 15 at Lockies Lane, saw many representatives from various charities, including those focused on hospice care, cancer advocacy, feeding schemes, victim support, early childhood development, and champions for change, gather to honour Averille’s achievement.
Even though she did not win the actual award, Averille is still happy that her work is being recognised.
“Today we are presenting the certificate to showcase the amazing work we have done together, and I wanted every person to feel proud,” says Averille.
For three decades, Averille has been a shining beacon of hope for the less fortunate in the greater West Rand community. Her visionary initiative has brought together numerous charitable organisations, fostering collaboration and support to maximise their collective impact.
“When my name was called in the room full of people, I felt grateful and happy. I thought of all the hard work and prayers that I have poured in for all the people I work with. We have faith and trust in one another.”
Averille’s journey began 30 years ago, driven by a passion to nurture and help others.
“I saw charities competing instead of working together,” she recalls. “I wanted to change that.”
Today, Multi Charities is a thriving network of charities spanning Krugersdorp, Roodepoort, Delarey, Randburg and Dobsonville.
This nomination is not Averille’s first acknowledgement. She received the Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Rotary Club of Roodepoort Central 25 years ago.
“At 82, to have my work recognised again is truly humbling,” she says, beaming with pride.
“It reminds me that kindness and compassion can have a lasting impact.”
Looking forward, Averille says she would like to have another 10 years of serving the community and she would like to win the actual award.
