Local Rotarian Jacqui Keel, along with the Rotary Club’s district governor-elect (DGE), Grace van Zyl, joined hands to launch the Rotary BizEast pilot project, aimed at revitalising local business while working to restore the community.

Operating under District 9400, this new chapter in the Rotary International history aims to modernise Rotary’s ethos for a new generation of entrepreneurs and young professionals.

“Rotary BizEast (Rotary for Business Johannesburg East) is a fresh, high-energy model designed to bridge the gap between professional networking and community restoration,” said founding lead, Keel.

“The brain-child of fellow Benonian and DGE Grace van Zyl, member of the Rotary Club of Johannesburg, the oldest Rotary club on the African continent, we are looking to modernise Rotary, however, remaining true to its ethos and five pillars of service.”

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As a businesswoman and local do-gooder, Keel explained that in an ever-changing world, Rotary BizEast was established to return to the organisation’s core, being a powerhouse of collaboration.

“By bringing together ‘fresh minds’ in the form of business owners whose perspectives have not been shaped by old structures, we are creating a culture that moves at the speed of business, but acts with the heart of a servant,” she said.

As a familiar face in local philanthropy, many of the founding members of the newly established chapter have been handpicked from individuals with a proven track record of ‘walking the talk’.

“The club’s footprint spans the entire eastern corridor, from Brakpan, Springs, Bedfordview, Edenvale and Benoni, to name a few areas in Johannesburg East,” she said.

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“It is a unique hybrid model, drawing inspiration from structured business referral networks to ensure that members’ businesses grow alongside their community impact.”

Despite being in its pilot phase, BizEast has already recorded significant action.

“Collaboration is our cornerstone. This is not about an individual, club or organisation taking credit. It is about the collective strength of local businesses, simultaneously uplifting each other and the Rotary brand,” said Keel.

Business owners and young professionals who resonate with the ethos of service above self and are looking to grow their professional network while making a tangible difference on the East Rand are encouraged to connect.

For more information, contact Keel on 083 625 1790.