Rotary embraces change at 47th Constantia Rotary and Steenberg Rotaract induction

Constantia Rotary Club and Steenberg Rotaract marked their 47th annual induction on Tuesday, July 10, with the swearing-in of their new presidents. 

Leaders, including outgoing Rotary District 9350 governor (DG) Stephen Young and incoming DG Pam Rawbone, emphasised the need for innovation, inclusivity, and greater impact as clubs aim to expand their reach and deepen their role in changing communities at the ceremony held at Stonehurst Mountain Estate Lifestyle Centre, Tokai.

Mr Young said that in a fast-paced, constantly changing world, Rotary must adapt to survive.

“We're at a bit of a crossroads because the world is changing. The way we communicate is changing. Rotary isn't changing fast enough," he said. 

This, he said, prompted the launch of the ACT4IMPACT initiative on February 4, which has already generated over 400 membership inquiries, a sharp rise from just 25 in the same period last year.

The initiative aims to build a network of individuals, through public and private collaboration, committed to creating meaningful change through mentorship, volunteering, and impactful community projects.

Ms Rawbone echoed this, noting that rotary is transforming for the better. The 2025/26 theme, ‘Unite for Good’, calls on Rotarians to collaborate and share expertise, she said.

The ‘Unite for Good’ action plan includes four priorities: impact, reach, engagement, and adaptation.

To achieve this, Ms Rawbone urged members to promote the impact of their community work, diversify membership, and foster healthy, engaging clubs.

“We need to unite people to take action with us to create lasting change,” she said.

“We need to create healthy clubs. We've got to provide engaging experiences for all. And we've got to unite people to take action with us to create lasting change.”

Outgoing Constantia Rotary president Peter Rogers highlighted that one of the club’s most significant contributions was a R11 million investment in school sports facilities since 2020, benefiting 4 000 children across four schools.

The project earned the club the Best Community Service Project award, for the third time, at the 9350 district conference in May.

“These facilities provide skills opportunities and entertainment for the learners, in vulnerable areas where there is very little opportunity, and this keeps them playing sports, which is a healthy activity, rather than getting into trouble,” he said.

Outgoing Steenberg Rotaract president Michael Holmes praised DG Young’s focus on Rotaractors, as “the next generation is the future.”

He said many club members started their journey in Interact at Steenberg High School and became board members straight after matric. He hopes to see bold progress under incoming president Jean Tshitenga.

Closing the evening, incoming DG Pam Rawbone inducted Sandy Whitehead as Constantia Rotary President, while incoming district Rotaract representative Chadwin Petersen inducted Jean as Steenberg Rotaract president.

Originally from the DRC, Jean matriculated from Steenberg High School last year and joined Interact in Grade 9. He said his early commitment to service stems from a desire to be the difference in service he never had growing up.

He promised to serve Steenberg Rotaract and the community from Steenberg, Retreat, Capricorn, Lavender Hill, and Hillview. 

“I will continue to serve, and hopefully, together with my board members and the entire club of Steenberg Rotaract, we could even fight to limit gangsterism within our community.”

Ms Whitehead has a long-standing Rotary background. She began as a Rotary Ann alongside her late husband and later became a Rotarian with Bulawayo South in Zimbabwe (District 9210). She joined Constantia Rotary 18 months ago after moving to Cape Town.

“I've travelled widely, hosted youth exchange students, and worked on projects with global partners,” she said.

“The power of Rotary lies in its internationality. As we wear our pins, we represent Rotary through our actions, our service, and our ethics.”

Several members were recognised for their service on the evening, with Paul Harris Fellow medallions awarded to Geoff Von Klemperer, Richard Rawson, and Peter Rogers.

A certificate of commendation was awarded to Peter Haylett, Gordon Slater, and Elizabeth Danckwerts. Additional certificates of commendation were awarded to Hugh Fichardt for 30 years of service and Lloyd Whitfield for 47 years of service.