“We rise by lifting others.”
That was the theme of the night as The Herald, in partnership with Nelson Mandela University, once again hosted the citizens of the year awards to celebrate local heroes who go beyond their means to give back to the community.
The 31st edition of the annual awards ceremony sponsored by Nelson Mandela University and SPAR was held on Friday at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Gqeberha, where 11 winners were celebrated in their various categories.
For the first time this year, there was the Sister Ethel Award, which recognised an individual who has done exemplary community work for more than 10 years in Nelson Mandela Bay.
Kolisi Foundation co-founder Rachel Kolisi was the guest speaker, while comedian Donovan Goliath had the crowd in stitches as master of ceremonies.
Welcoming the guests and winners, The Herald and Weekend Post editor Rochelle de Kock said the city had a leadership crisis which included a lack of service delivery.
Despite this, she said, there were people doing their bit to make a difference.
“Today [Friday] we are here to celebrate you, we are here to say thank you for your contribution in making a difference in the lives of the residents of the metro,” De Kock said.
She said the work done by the celebrated heroes had been noticed, and she hoped the recognition would inspire others to do the same.
“People can’t only rely on leaders to change things around,” she said.
The awards have, for more than three decades, given recognition to ordinary individuals who selflessly serve those in need.
Prof Andre Keet, Nelson Mandela University deputy vice-chancellor for engagement and transformation, and research chair for critical studies in higher education, said the spirit of optimism and selflessness was found in the DNA of a human, though sometimes one tended to be selfish.
“I would like to thank The Herald team for inviting the university to such a space.
“We are super-proud to be associated with this, and to our sponsors, we salute you,” Keet said.
SPAR sponsorships and events manager Alan Stapleton said that during difficult times, while many struggled just to leave their homes, the winners managed to reach out to others.
He said it was amazing reading about the works of those nominated.
“To the winners tonight, know that you are special, thank you.
“In [Springbok rugby captain] Siya Kolisi’s book, he speaks of how when you lift others up you rise yourself.”
Sharing the message of support, Kolisi’s wife, Rachel, said she was honoured to be part of the celebratory event.
She said it was devastating to read of the troubles of the Eastern Cape and the lack of leadership in the metro.
“We should never get comfortable with people struggling, and never be OK to turn our heads from issues that we know are problematic.
“If you have the ability, do something,” she said.
Thrilled and overwhelmed, the various category winners agreed the night was inspiring and an encouragement for others to follow suit.
The Herald Nelson Mandela University Citizens of the Year 2022 civil society category winner, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, of Gift of the Givers, said it was wonderful to see ordinary people doing something so great in their city.
He said that kind of passion for the country would go a long way, and no Eskom price hikes or drought would be able to stop people from doing good things.
“It is [wonderful] to see people standing together, not worried about race, gender or culture, just wanting to do things for others.
“All I see is hope for the country,” he said.
Arts and culture category winner Sakumzi Nyendwana, who has been uplifting Motherwell youngsters through the arts, said the award meant a lot to him, and to others trying to make a difference.
“This day is for those who are trying their level best to bring change as there is so much happening in our communities,” he said.
Nyendwana said there were many challenges, including unemployment and a lack of information, and such initiatives embraced those who tried to make something out of nothing.
KwaNobuhle-born social activist and community leader Ntombozuko Jafta, winner in the gender-based violence category, said winning would change everything.
“I am so inspired, now that I am known I have already got people willing to help.
“We are thankful for the exposure as it will definitely contribute to our growth,” she said.
The Herald Nelson Mandela University Citizens of the Year Awards also honoured Walmer Angel Project founder Glenda Brunette as the Sister Ethel Award winner for 2022 for her contributions to society over the past 10 years.
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