Amanzimtoti Lions induct new president
The culmination of André Beetge's Lions Club of Amanzimtoti presidency came with international recognition of his service from the global organisation.
THE LIONS Club of Amanzimtoti hosted its official presidential induction on July 5 in a glittering evening affair at the Illovo Africa Lodge.
Taking over the mantle from past president, André Beetge, Lions president elect, Chris Stange, said during his speech, “My vision for the coming year is centred around three areas: Strengthening our service to the community, increasing club membership, and enhancing our club’s visibility through social media and local newspapers.”
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He added that the club will continue to identify and address the community’s needs through new projects. Stange further added that as president, he will ensure that each club member feels valued and has equal opportunity to contribute and have a sense of purpose in the club.
Stange emphasised the need to raise awareness of the Lions’ activities and achievements to inspire new generations of members to take up the club’s mission.
A highlight of the event was the emotional moment when Beetge was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellowship award. It is a prestigious award the club applied for from Lions International Foundation and is named after the founder of Lions Club International.
Unable to hold back tears, Beetge was caught off-guard as his fellow club members kept the award a secret until the big moment. He commented that he has only ever seen the award handed out once before in all his years as a committed Lions club member.
Chairperson of Lions Clubs International Foundation, Dr Patti Hill, congratulated Beetge on becoming a Melvin Jones Fellow.
“Because of you, we are making a difference in the lives of so many in the world. Through LCIF funding, we are fighting diabetes, preventable blindness, childhood cancer and more. We are feeding the hungry, responding to natural disasters, empowering young people for success, and protecting our environment. Wear your Melvin Jones Fellowship lapel pin with pride. It represents your commitment to humanitarian service to the highest degree,” she said.
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