As 2025 drew to an end, the Rotary Club of Johannesburg New Dawn reflected on a year marked by compassion, connection and a deep commitment to uplifting the communities they serve.

For the Rotarians who gather at the Parkview Golf Club each Wednesday morning, service above self is far more than a motto. It is a rhythm that shapes their work and their bond with the city around them.

Their annual Golf Day once again proved to be a highlight. More than a friendly day on the greens, it raised critical funds and offered supporters a closer look at the projects that New Dawn continues to nurture across Johannesburg.

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Among these is Donate a Loo, founded by Helene Bramwell of The Mask in Tyrone Avenue. With New Dawn’s ongoing support, the project has replaced unsafe pit latrines with proper ablution facilities at schools and crèches, restoring dignity and safety to children and caregivers who have long gone without basic sanitation.

Education remained a central focus this year. Through The Link Literacy and Numeracy Project, members offered one-on-one support to Grade 2 learners who needed help catching up. These quiet, patient sessions have helped children rebuild their confidence and strengthen the essential skills that guide their future learning.

Their involvement with the Alexandra Education Committee extends this mission, providing academic and emotional support to learners from disadvantaged communities and opening the door to opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach.

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New Dawn’s influence also stretches into community leadership through its sponsorship of the Rotary Community Corps in Soweto, where residents and organisations work together to create cleaner and safer neighbourhoods.

Another treasured relationship has grown at Woodside Sanctuary in Cottesloe, a home for residents with profound mental and physical disabilities. New Dawn members have shared outings, gifted blankets and festive treats, and offered simple companionship that brings warmth to people who are too often forgotten.

A special moment in 2025 was the recognition of Fran Haslam for her unwavering devotion to protecting Zoo Lake. She received the Paul Harris Fellow Award, one of Rotary’s highest honours, in tribute to her tireless efforts to safeguard one of Johannesburg’s most beloved public spaces.

New Dawn continues to attract engaging speakers and curious visitors to its weekly meetings, each one welcomed with genuine warmth and interest.

Club president Jankees Sligcher hope that one of people’s resolutions would be a visit to Rotary in 2026.

For Rotary New Dawn, their work stands as a reminder that communities thrive when ordinary people come together with extraordinary hearts.

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