Meet Joburg heritage foundation’s new head
JOBURG - A long-time history lover, Brett McDougall has been able to express his passion through his involvement with the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation.
The newly-elected chairperson of the foundation spoke to City Buzz about his involvement in the foundation, and his plans for the future.
How did you get involved with the foundation?
I have been a huge fan of the foundation and the work it does since I attended my first Heritage Weekend 15 years ago. A few years ago, I offered to start and maintain a Facebook page for the foundation, and then became a tour guide. I finally volunteered my services on the Board of Management.
What’s your favourite period in Joburg’s history?
The 1930s. Johannesburg was at its most confident and ‘international’ then. We had some superb architects practising in the city at that time. It’s a pity that this legacy is not more widely appreciated.
What is your vision for the foundation?
First and foremost to sustain and grow the foundation’s current initiatives in research, education, conservation and activism. For that to happen, we need to broaden our reach, and appeal across generations and demographics.
Do you have any special projects lined up?
We are restoring the James Mpanza house and lions in Soweto. In 1944 Mpanza led thousands of people from the slums of Orlando to set up a huge shantytown in the veld. By dramatising the plight of the city’s homeless workers, the shantytown movement created pressures that led to the construction of modern Soweto.
The foundation offers an impressive selection of tours. Are new tours being planned?
Our tour committee produces innovative and interesting tours every quarter. This quarter we will visit Dolobran and Page House on a tour dedicated to [architect] James Cope-Christie, explore Newtown by night, and commemorate the start of World War I. The first quarter of 2015 promises to be even more exciting.
Why should people get involved with the foundation?
We are the city’s most active heritage voice, and every cent we raise through our tours is channelled into our research, conservation and education activities. By joining the foundation, volunteering your services, or simply going on a tour, you will contribute to the preservation of Joburg’s remarkable heritage – and it’s great fun, too.
McDougall took over the foundation’s reins from Flo Bird in August.
Details: 011 482 3349; www.joburgheritage.co.za
