A STALWART of the Isipingo community, Dayalan Govender, 62, fondly known as Ganny, was recently honoured as an Unsung Hero as one of the many underappreciated South Africans. He was awarded a certificate and medal at the event, held at Sastri College Hall for a legacy of contributions to his community, local sports and South Africa.

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He is most notably known for his role as an engineer in projects such as uShaka Marine World’s Shipwreck aquarium, and when he was appointed lead mechanical engineer for the construction of the Moses Mabhida Stadium in 2008 ahead of the 2010 Fifa World Cup. His engineering expertise was again integral at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic when he designed one of the first Covid air conditioning extraction systems at Clairwood Hospital.

His parents, the late John and Papathie Govender, were pioneers of the Isipingo community. Their devotion to community service in turn imbued in him a passion for giving back.

He said at an early age he was enamoured with soccer, often going to support local clubs. He played social football at Savan Road Park before joining Park Spurs Football Club. While senior football eluded him, he found success in cricket, playing for Savanites Cricket Club, and in darts for the Sportsman Darts Club.

His dedication to administration in community sports was a significant reason he was awarded the Unsung Heroes award.

“I was initially involved in Lincoln City Football Club as secretary, treasurer, clerk and eventually as chairman. Later on, I was chairman of Isipingo Sporting Club, I was treasurer of Isipingo District Football Association. Long after, alongside the late Ronnie Vengan, I was chairman of Isipingo Soccer Legends. Currently, I am heavily involved in cultivating young talent with the Isipingo Junior Soccer Academy,” said Ganny.

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He said that while interest in soccer in Isipingo is not what it once was, there is a need to invest in youth. He added that youngsters are coming through the ranks and it is only a matter of time before there are formidable teams in the area.

While Ganny now resides in Athlone Park, he is still deeply entrenched in the Isipingo community, often conducting feedings at Kavady festivals and other religious events, or by uplifting the community through the Isipingo Old Boys Charity Club.

“I try to help people, make a difference in their lives. Whatever I own, it does not belong to me when I am dead and gone, so I think it is important to share what I have now.

He is a passionate Liverpool Football Club supporter and enjoys travelling to watch games live and collecting memorabilia. In his free time, Ganny plays social golf and joyously partakes in fishing with Ferns and Tails Angling Club.

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