In a memorable ceremony held at the picturesque Hennops Country Venue, the Rotary Club of Waterkloof celebrated a significant leadership transition.
Over 45 distinguished guests gathered to witness Dr Thabang Chiloane, President, from July 2023 to June 2024, handing over the reins to Jacqueline van Wyk.
The event also marked the induction of five new members and the recognition of Past Assistant Governor Memos Kavallineas and Audrey Mamabolo as honorary members, adding to the evening’s prestige and excitement.
Among the notable dignitaries was District Governor George Senosha, who inspired attendees with his rousing speech about service above self. He encouraged fellow Rotarians to serve without seeking self-gratification and urged them to invite others to join in serving their communities.
In his heartfelt farewell speech, Chiloane expressed deep gratitude and reflected on his tenure. “It has been an incredible honour to serve as the president of the Rotary Club of Waterkloof. This journey has been marked by moments of challenge and triumph, growth and transformation,” he began.
Chiloane emphasised the power of collective effort, citing an African proverb: "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.“
Under Chiloane’s leadership, the club achieved remarkable milestones. “Our increased visibility has not only attracted new members and funding but also brought recognition to our club'[s impactful work,” he proudly stated.
Chiloane also highlighted the club’s unwavering commitment to eradicating polio through initiatives like the Purple Pinky Drive and polio walks, which raised significant awareness and funds. Notably, the club secured a generous donation of R25 000 from Nedbank towards polio eradication.
Chiloane reflected on the club’s successful furniture projects, which benefited 20 organisations, including schools, orphanages, foundations, and places of safety.
“The Banking Association South Africa and Nedbank Foundation donated over 2,500 pieces of furniture, which were distributed to old age homes, orphanages, foundations, schools, and Rotary Community Corps organisations in Soweto, Tembisa, Gauteng, and Centurion, among others,” he acknowledged.
Incoming President Jacqueline van Wyk began her acceptance speech by warmly welcoming all attendees and expressing her gratitude. “I extend my heartfelt thanks to my fellow Rotarians for entrusting me with the role of president for the upcoming Rotarian year. It is an honour to serve in this capacity, and together we will embark on a journey of achievements and impactful service,” she said.
Van Wyk shared her journey to Rotary, inspired by District Governor George Senosha’s dedication to peacebuilding. “To be a Rotarian means to serve above oneself and to give selflessly without expecting accolades or rewards. True service comes from a humble heart,” she articulated passionately.
Looking ahead, Van Wyk outlined ambitious plans for the upcoming year, including the continuation of the Purple Pinkie campaign and the introduction of the Orange Your World campaign. She emphasised the importance of peace-building, water and sanitation education, and community development initiatives. “We want to continue with the collaboration of peace-building to make an enormous impact on the clubs and the communities at large,” Van Wyk declared.
In her closing remarks, Van Wyk echoed the themes of “Imagine Rotary,” “Create Hope in the World,” and “The Magic of Rotary.”
She urged her fellow Rotarians to plant seeds of service thoughtfully, nurture them, and watch them grow into impactful contributions. “As Winston Churchill once said, ‘We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.’ In a world of ordinary, be the magic, dare to dream, and let the magic happen,” she concluded.
Van Wyk also introduced the new board for the 2024/25 year, comprising executive secretary and treasurer Rotarian Shadi Puoane, secretary Rotarian Dr Dominic Richards, girl empowerment Dr Muda Temane, projects chair Rotarian Dr Isaac Boshomane, foundation and member chair Chiloane, director polio Van Wyk,a nd peace chair Rotarian Dieketseng Diale.
The Rotary Club of Waterkloof looks forward to another year of dedicated service and impactful projects under Van Wyk's inspiring leadership.
Pretoria News