Amanzimtoti Rotary supports Khanya Hospice
Like most people who have time on their hands during lockdown, Aneska has decided to use hers productively.
A true humanitarian at heart, even during the lockdown Amanzimtoti Rotary Club member, Aneska Dupont, 70, is working to help others. “We need to keep our community informed and safe, and we are trying to raise funds for Khanya Hospice, as it is really battling.”
Aneska, who was born in Mossel Bay, will celebrate being a Rotary member for an amazing 29 years in June, since she joined in 1991. She was the first woman Rotarian in the Toti district and three years later became president of the club. Since 1995 she has been president five times and even stepped in to complete Chris Skinner’s term when he died.
“I joined because I wanted to help the community, and use my skills and knowledge to help others. I believe people should work for dignity. I love being a Rotarian. I am concerned about governance issues at some NPOs, but the best part is making a difference in the lives of others and helping them to help themselves.”
She did her schooling at Park Primary in her home town and matriculated at Langenhoven High School in Oudtshoorn. After school she studied banking at the Certified Associate of the Institute of Bankers in South Africa and financial planning. “My 40-plus years in banking and financial planning enables me to mentor and educate my clients. Your ability to earn an income is your biggest asset.”
READ ALSO: Khanya Hospice continues the good fight
Her financial whizz was recognised when she was awarded the Soroptomist – Women in Finance award in 1996. There were 40 finalists and categories included tourism, commerce, law, health, arts, finance and community service. “A soroptimist pledges herself to quicken the spirit of service, maintain high ethical standards, goodwill and understanding. Nedbank nominated me and was very surprised to receive the award.”
She is also a member of the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa, was Nedbank’s representative at the Business Women Association and she chaired the Women’s Forum at Nedbank.
Aneska is married to Norbert, but they do not have any children. “I am a ‘back-up’ mom for my sister Renata’s four children, Brigitte, Rick, Benn and Thom. I am a member of Amanzimtoti Country Club, where I play golf, and I have many hobbies, such as gardening, reading, beading and patchwork. For fun I enjoy a good movie, playing with my dog Kiya or visiting my sister.”
Asked what she would say to someone thinking of joining the organisation, she replied: “Rotary is a volunteer organisation of about 1.2-million business and professional leaders, who are united worldwide to provide humanitarian service and help build goodwill and peace. Rotary encourages high ethical standards in all vocations.
It is the largest provider of international scholarships that also partners with seven prestigious universities around the world, to provide the opportunity to earn a master’s degree in peace and conflict resolution.”
READ ALSO: Toti Rotary Club welcomes new president
Like most people who have time on their hands during lockdown, Aneska has decided to use hers productively. “I am keeping busy my redefining my goals. It’ s nice to have time to look, hear and smell things. I love watching the birds and butterflies, pottering around in my garden and clearing the clutter inside our house.
Fortunately Rotary’ s project have not been put on hold during the coronavirus pandemic, as it is important for us to keep our community informed and safe. Our club is supporting Khanya Hospice as their main sources of income, after its three shops had to close due to the lockdown. They are still providing essential services by looking after and caring for terminally ill patients for free, however, petrol, medical supplies and nurses still need to be paid, so any kind donation will be greatly appreciated.”
To donate, use the following bank details: Khanya Hospice, Standard Bank Scottburgh, cheque account, account number – 052874060, branch code: 057627, reference your name and contact details.
“Our Interact club at Kingsway High School has been serving our community for 25 years. Our Rotary club was chartered in June 1965 and we chartered the interact club on 30 March 1995. We were hoping to have a big celebration, but that had to be put on hold. We are now planning to celebrate Rotary’s motto ‘service above self’ via social media.”
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