THE fifth annual Project Lion/Lioness Unchained Memories (PLLUM) Awards impressed attendees at the Durban Playhouse Theatre recently, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of those who have made a difference in their communities.

Also read: PLLUM awards shine light on community heroes

Organised by Wendy Conner, the awards ceremony hosted more than 100 guests who came to honour exceptional individuals of Wentworth and surrounding communities who have chosen to uplift others through their lives, workplace and values.

“The PLLUM awards is all about honouring such people of inspiration. These heroes or heroines continue to pursue greatness not just for themselves but for the betterment of others at large, as well as the community where they were born and raised,” said Conner.

Among those honored was Greta Apelgren Narkedien, who received a Lifetime Legend Award. Posthumous awards were also made in honour of Morris Fynn and Father Cyril Carey, both for their enduring legacy. Wellington Meth and the late Fynn received the Unsung Hero Award, and chieftess Olivia Jones was honoured in the Unsung Heroine category for her continued dedication to elevating the community.

“The women empowerment award went to Renette Roskruge. Humanitarian awards were handed to Dr. Bronwynne Anderson and Darian Smith. The man of valour honour went to Matthew Le Cordier, Andre de Bruin and Dr. Gregory Houston,” said Conner.

The awards further shed light on the strength of storytelling. Lorraine Richards was honoured for her efforts at Horus Media, while Dillon Pillay from The SUN was honoured for his contribution in the community. Richards was also praised for documenting nominees’ stories in Ward 68.

Also read: Merebank community works together to restore sports ground

Under literature, Monica Brown and Cyril James were both honoured, with a Lifetime Legend Award also being received by James. Dr. Troy Meyers received an award for his efforts in keeping indigenous history alive.

Neville and Lenore Goss-Matjie were awarded as a couple of influence. The business moguls and reality tv stars were recognised for the work they do in various communities and uplifting the coloured community.

“For me this is extremely special because as I’ve said, as coloured people, you don’t see us in many spaces, so I think it’s so important for us to recognise, support and show up for each other. We need to show up boldly and authentically. We need to be proud of background, our heritage; we have such a rich and diverse heritage and culture and I think if we all celebrate each other and speak out more, the sky is the limit as to what we can achieve,” said Lenore.

The entertaining duo of Clint Leverton and Jenni Pretorius kept the audience laughing as the MCs for the evening.

As the curtain fell on this year’s event, Conner extended her gratitude to all involved.  “To all of the guests in attendance we would like to thank you for your patience and understanding, to our award recipients we would like to thank you for graciously accepting the nomination and appearing on the day,” said Conner.

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