For Craighall resident Nick Bell, service has never been about recognition. Instead, it has been about quietly responding to need wherever he encounters it. After more than three decades as a Rotarian, Bell recently found himself at the centre of a project that would safeguard the future of an early childhood development centre in Soweto and the children it serves.

Bell, who has been involved with Rotary for 35 years, maintains strong ties with Holt Rotary Club in the United Kingdom while also participating locally through The Rotary Club of Johannesburg New Dawn, of which Helene Bramwell is a member.

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His connection to Charity Day Care grew from this shared Rotary network and a friendship with Bramwell, whose passionate commitment to improving sanitation in schools left a lasting impression.

Bramwell launched the Donate A Loo initiative after learning of a tragic incident in which a child died after falling into a pit latrine. Determined to prevent similar tragedies, she mobilised support for safe sanitation solutions across vulnerable communities.

Bell explained that the partnership gained momentum when Rotary Holt in the United Kingdom, under the leadership of president Janice Broughton, sought a water-focused project for its annual programme.

He was invited to present the Soweto initiative to the club, which quickly embraced the cause and raised about R22 000 to fund toilet facilities at Charity Day Care.

Reflecting on the experience, Bell described the support as both meaningful and humbling. He shared that witnessing the realities faced by many communities highlights how easily necessities are taken for granted. Access to water and safe sanitation, he said, remains fundamental to health, dignity and education.

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The impact of the donation was made clear in a heartfelt letter from Charity Day Care management, which expressed gratitude for the facilities that have allowed the centre to continue operating. Without them, staff acknowledged they would have struggled to keep their doors open.

For Bell, whose wife dedicated her career to early years education, investing in young children carries deep personal significance. He believes that providing safe environments for learning can shape futures in ways that are often unseen but profoundly important.

During a recent site visit, Bell was particularly moved by the dedication of installer Richard Wlambo, who continues his work despite personal setbacks, including the theft of his vehicle.

The encounter reinforced Bell’s belief that lasting change is built through collective effort and the willingness of individuals to contribute their skills. Quoting words that have stayed with him since visiting Kolkata, Bell reflected that not everyone can do great things, but everyone can do small things with great love.

Through Rotary’s global network and partnerships on the ground, those small acts continue to ripple outward, bringing hope, dignity and opportunity to communities far beyond.

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