Join the South African journey on their trip to Austria for the Austrian AGM
RTSA IRO Cois travels abroad to sign twinning agreements
Feedback from the RTSA IRO Touring Europe & Representing RTSA
Namibia goes to Mauritius for the RTM AGM ‘24
The story of Tommy Snyders & his experience in the tropical island
RT GERMANY Mental Health Awareness
Christoph Diets shares his story on Mental Health and their drive throughout
41ers International World Meeting in Marrakech, Morocco
Suren tells us the story of an unforgettable time at the 41ers INT World meeting
RTGA Interviews the Executive Council of RTGA
Breakdown of the Gauteng Area’s Executive Council
News & Stories from the Ladies Circle
Exploring the world of Ladies Circle
Meet the 24/25 Board
Heartwarming feedback from the members of Namibia Area
Winter Knights Handout Mental Health Awareness
Supporting the community & #impactfulchange
Rebuilding, helping and assisting the members of the community
Fellowship & Fun Embracing Table
Reflecting on what was accomplished and the change that was made
Learning, growing and improving yourself in Round Table
Guidelines and Rules for continuous growth and success
Feedback from the Inkundla Editor
Behind the scenes of the Inkundla and the message behind it all
Fromthedeskofthe InkundlaEditor
It is the month of August, Woman’s Month, and it is time for another edition of the RTSA Magazine, The Inkundla’s 3rd Edition
Now since it is Woman’s Month, I saw it as a very fitting theme for this edition. Not just to use is as a general layout or structure, but so much more than that.
To Table with ones family or spouse is truly a remarkable blessing It gives you the ability to share everything with the ones you love You have the opportunity to grow together and watch it play out in front of your eyes
Let us all remember this and celebrate those special ladies who are involved in our lives and who make an impact every single day
Less is More!!!
For this edition, we will keep it short and sweet We are trying to place more emphasis on the Inkundla and the value it brings the readers
To make an omelette you have to break a couple of eggs, and that is exactly what we are doing. Experimenting different ways to ensure that this magazine will continue to grow and improve with the rest of Round Table
I hope you, as the readers, enjoy what we have put together and that you will continue to read and gain from the Inkundla
Lekker Lees Wouter “CPT47” Dreyer
The RTSA Executive Council attending the KZN Tri Area, hosted by NSCA at TO Strand in Port Alfred, KZN.
HoldingtheRTSAname highabroad
As after Artsa, I was just trying to juggle all the travel and tweening agreements, it came to light that the one Area couldn’t travel from the area We decided to put the word all day for anyone with a valid passport/visa to put their name in the hat to travel to France
After a week no one put up there hand, so I put up my hand as I had a valid visa in place
Before I could blink the day arrive for me to travel, excitement levels were hard as I’ve never traveled to France and I was ready keen to learn and experience their culture
After 48 hour of travel, I arrived in Dunkirk
The afternoon was spent in true table culture exploring the beautiful town of Dunkirk and meeting tablelers for the first time that became brothers .
As the evening approached we had to get back to the hotel to get ready for the opening of the weekend, I must say the French know how to entertain and make sure everyone had a good time
Next morning it was AGM time, wow what an amazing experience, seeing how our brothers do it was a real learning experience
I was were pleased that I could sign the twinning between France and RTSA for another year.
We had a beautiful Black tie event the evening and it was spent in great spirit.
The next morning I had a 8 hour train ride to Hanover Germany, with some beautiful scenery along way
Next morning I could sleep in a bit and just recharged the batteries a bit
As the battery should be recharged, I decided to go and explore the town of Hanover a bit, ha ha 23 000 steps later.
On Tuesday morning, I got picked up at hotel from my local tabler “Benny” to start the pre-tour
We headed of to a town called Celle, where I got greeted by some tablers
The evening we headed of to a local restaurant where I attended there table meeting “ social “ and some great fellowship was done.
On Wednesday I met up with Hanno “Wp Area IRo” as he came to join us on the tour
We headed of to the town of Jagermister where were received with open arms
We attended the meeting and afterwords we got put in to teams to pull some busses.
Great fun and lots of fellowship was had by us all.
Thursday morning we were on the road again of to a town called Baringhausen to visit an underground coal mine
What an incredible experience we had Later the afternoon we met up with Barry from the NNSA that won the travel bingo.
Couldn’t believe the week went past so quickly as it was Friday morning and it was time for the German AGM weekend to start
Friday evening was on as and we attended the opening ceremony, it was a great evening as we have made so many new friends in the last week, it felt like we were back at home.
On Saterday morning we attended the 70th German AGM, as we couldn’t understand what they were saying it was great to see how organized and professional the meeting was handled
Before the gale dinner my self and Hanno attended the Banner exchange, it was amazing to see that Wp send a Springbok skin to sign to build a bit of gees.
Sunday morning we all send our goodbyes and started our journey back home
What an unbelievable experience I had and I would encourage every single tabler that gets the opportunity to travel abroad to take it with both hands and go and enjoy every second of it.
Till my next travels
Yours in Table
Francois van der Merwe
RTSA IRO
EDELWEISSTOUR‘24
On Friday the 17th of May Kim and set off from Durban Airport to Austria for the famous Edelweiss tour We flew with Guy & Cara Hankinson (DBN 2) and arrived in Vienna the following morning and were met by our friend Bertl, from Beach, Bush & Berg RTIWM pretour. He loaded us, and our luggage, and dropped us with another BBB friend, Nikias, who took us and the other internationals around the Austrian parliament for a guided tour, in the meantime our bags were dropped at our respective hosts for our time in Vienna – Home hosting is a key part of the tour
After the parliament tour is was time for a few beers at the bar on the parliament rooftop, before rushing off to see the famous Lippazeners. Later that afternoon we met at the home of Lukas Pritz (Austrian past president and convenor of the Edelweiss Tour) for the official start of the tour, we enjoyed some beers and wine while getting to know some of the local Tablers and fellow internationals on tour
That evening we went for dinner at a beer garden in the city, delicious food, excellent company and enough schnapps to lose your sense of balance; this was followed by a few more festive hours in one of the oldest amusement parks in the world.
The following morning we went on a walking tour of Vienna with virtual headsets, an amazing experience St Stephens cathedral was next and we were treated to a special tour of this iconic church that is generally not open to the public; from the catacombs under the church that hold the remains of 11000 people to the rooftop where we enjoyed some wine made by a local Tabler; it was a memorable experience. That evening we went up to a vineyard overlooking the city and the platters of food and bottles of wine just kept coming…
In the morning our bus for the week arrived and we made our way to our next town – Leoben The bus driver, Siegi (pronounced Ziggy), has been doing this tour for a few decades – what a legend!! Leoben is a smallish town in the country and we stopped at the farm of a local Tabler and we climbed onto a few bakkies and headed up into the mountain to an Austrian café for more delicious platters and drinks, from there we walked off to the mountain cabin that we would be our home for the night
8kms later and with a few drinks breaks we arrived at a beautiful cabin owned by the Hafellner family We were welcomed by Tablers, 41ers and their families and the party started again!! The effort they went through was incredible – a big tent for socialising and a wood fired hot tub had been specially set up for us! The fellowship that night was exceptional and at about “quarter to the hour” I called it a night
At “quarter past” it was time to wake up and some weary bodies made their way back down the hill to continue on to Leibnitz where we tasted the world famous pumpkin seed oils and then lunch and wine tasting at the vineyard of a Tabler, it wasn’t long and the Edelweiss group was back on top form. The music and wine on the bus kept us very entertained as we moved on to our next stop, the city of Graz. We arrived and got straight off the bus and were met by the Tablers from Graz 8 and 21 for a walking tour of the city, some fresh air and a leg stretch was much needed – hydration included We then made our way to our home host for the night to freshen up for dinner that was held at the “home” restaurant of Graz 8; for more good food, wine, beer, schnapps and fellowship. In the morning we made our way to one of the oldest cities in Austria – Steyr and that afternoon on to Gmunden for a boat cruise on the lake and a barbeque at the home of a prominent family in the city Enjoying more good food and wine in the company of some great people was a most memorable evening
Thursday morning it was off to Salzburg for a walking tour of the “Old Town”, the birthplace of Mozart Some more unbelievable history and stunning architecture and a traditional wiener schnitzel for lunch before we made our way to Zell am See, a beautiful town on a lake and a popular skiing destination We were treated to a stay in the hotel of a 41er That evening we went to meet with the Zell am See 28 Tablers at their clubhouse - in a massive old farmhouse that had been converted into a wedding venue and restaurant, complete with a tiny chapel inside Friday was the final morning of the Edelweiss Tour and the bus took us high into the Austrian Alps up Grossglockner Pass where we got see some unbelievable scenery and even walked in small snow storm As we made our way to Spittal for the AGM we felt a little sad that the tour was coming to an end but then we realised we still had a couple days of epic Tabling left
They tried a new concept with the gala dinner on the Friday night and the internationals were very well looked after. A good party with old and new friends followed that evening. The following morning was a slow start and being a part of the Austrian AGM was an awesome experience
The closing party on Saturday night was one of the highlights of the week, more good food, wine and goodbye’s to some people that truly are now friends for life. I cannot speak highly enough about the Austrian Tablers, their families, and the effort they put in for this tour, every little detail was taken care of and they were proud to show us the very best their country has to offer I am not surprised that it is considered the BEST pre tour out there – maybe one day I’ll do it again!!
WEL 213@ RTM AGM
On May 15th, Tommy Snyders, Welwitchia213’s secretary and treasurer embarked on his journey to join the roundtable Mauritius AGM which took place on the 17th to 19th of May 2024 at the prestigious Oceans creek beach hotel in Le Goulet, Balaclava district Mauritius.
2 connect flights later, on the 16th of May, he got a warm welcome at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport from the MRT3 tablers From the airport they had quite the drive to the house of MRT 7 chairman Cédric Béguier Here they were welcomed with a crazy house party hosted by MRT president, and man can they throw a party. At the party they extended the invitation to Tommy, asking him to help with the initiation of their prospects better known as pipeliners to the RTSA tablers He gave them a few challenges to give them an idea of how RTSA table
The challenges included boat races or singing the roundtable song etc They chose the boat races as they were not familiar with the RT song After a somewhat successful race, due to the fact that it was single races, one of the prospects did not make it through the rest of the induction, and might I add I heard it was the second attempt of inducting them, and they did not make it both times, had quite the laugh though Tommy challenged them further with tasks like remembering some of the Namibian area projects and table names with their numbers, and to his surprise they could remember most of it After the induction they had an amazing rest of the social and he could make new brothers and sisters in table. Few pin exchanges took place and the rest is history as the party only ended the next day Below is a picture Friday morning on the 17th of May most woke up with their heads banging and dragging but they had to get ready for the AGM that would start the Friday night at the hotel so check in was due
But before the check in the MRT tablers took out the international guests for an early lunch, to get rid of the previous night’s toxins, ‘laugh’’, the Mauritians literally did a detox smoothie while Tommy enjoyed a cold beer The lunch turned out to be amazing and they sealed it off with another cold beer
After check in all tablers got ready for the nations night festivities which entails, locally sourced products from each RT area/country. Tommy took a bottle of locally produced brandy call ‘’Bevok’’ and some biltong, chilli bites and dröewors. This was a definite winner as the other international tablers could simply not have enough The only other international nations table was the Reunion Island tablers, which served their traditional bottles of locally produced rum
This was a total experience as there was quite a variety of flavors, and might I add if the Namibians were to get their hands on that liquor they would have been extinct by now, as their livers would be in end stage failure due to the volume of alcohol present in the rum.
And obviously the hosting country or Island in this case also outdid themselves, we had quite a feast later the night as we ended of the nation’s night These dishes included mostly curry and halal dishes as they have a very broad Indian background There were also pins exchanged and some banners from international tables. After all festivities we ended up in a hotel room as the venue had to close down, and did we have another fun social. This was the ideal time to get to know the international tablers even better as none of them backed out, so remember to always say yes to table events even in a hotel room! Laugh Saturday morning, the 18th of May they had an amazing breakfast as they recuperated from the previous night, and also had to be fresh for the AGM that would take place at 14h00 Mauritian time. They had quite the welcoming, and only started 5minutes late, which was sorted out as they had asked Tommy and Finarita Andrian from Madagascar to be cosergeants ‘’ And might I add, a job well done’ in Tommy’s own words Tommy tried his best to minute the meeting in his role of secretary, but was unsuccessful as 50% of the meeting ended up being in French, and again the sergeants handled it. The AGM ended up to be quite successful, all reports were submitted on time and they could propose them for adoption However, at the end of the meeting, Tommy asked to extend a few words as he picked up a few errors with the reports
One of the errors was the fact that all the tables used one template and format from MRT1, they could not believe it and projected all the reports once again for all to see and confirm, this to them was very amusing as not one have picked this up through the meeting and previous reports. The sergeant being Tommy himself had the honour of giving the area council and all tablers a little motivation to critically analyse the reports One of the drinks used by the sergeants was a locally produced kombutcha/mampoer like drink, stored in a 21 year old bottle which surprisingly is the age of Tommy.
The 41ers International World Meeting took place in Marrakesh, Morocco from the 30th August to the 01st June and was attended by Current President Suren Packery, Vice President Dellorin Bornman and Past Presidents Nico McNamara and Peter Harding, and the Tangent South Africa delegate, Annemie Coetzee
Barry Durham from England was the outgoing International President, and the Incoming International President was Aziz Cherkaoui from Morocco
41ers Club Morrocco put together an exhilarating event and programme and it was a well-attended event with almost over 500 internationals there. The functions over the weekend brought together this multiculturalism and the vibrance of all the countries, Particularly the Nations Night that brought together the true kaleidoscope of colours and flavours and all the diverse cultural influences
Morrocco itself is an amazing country, blending Berber, Arab, African, and European elements This unique mix is evident in everything from its bustling markets and stunning architecture to its diverse cuisine and lively festivals, creating a dynamic and colourful tapestry that captivates visitors and locals alike
It’s worth noting that the 41er International AGM and the Tangent International AGM takes place as a combined event In attendance also is the International Presidents of Round Table, Ladies Circle and AGORA. There is a strong focus on the Round Table Family by International Presidents and Side by Side projects are encouraged
It was an ordinary afternoon in May 2018, when a good friend asked to talk We were sitting together, a wine in hand, when he suddenly revealed that he was suffering from depression and contemplating suicide His words hit me like a ton of bricks I was shocked and felt utterly helpless. My first thought was, "How could I not notice?" We've known each other for years and spent countless hours together. But at that moment, I realized how little I actually knew about his inner struggles
This experience profoundly moved me and changed my life I decided to delve deeply into the topic of mental health to better help not only my friend but others in similar situations. Luckily, I brought this up at a Meeting of my home club Round Table 18 Wiesbaden, Germany. As it turned out, I was not alone on this and we decided as a table to make it a project to create awareness This journey led to a deeper understanding and a newfound appreciation for the importance of mental health I want to share my insights with you to educate and encourage especially young men between 18 and 45 – but let’s be honest, anyone - to seek help and to end the stigma surrounding mental health.
1.Worried About Someone? Ask Open Questions. If you're worried about someone, it's crucial to start the conversation. Ask open-ended questions like "How are you feeling?" or "Is there something you'd like to talk about?" These questions show that you genuinely care about the other person's feelings Talking about emotions isn't easy for everyone, so it's important to listen attentively, honestly, and without judgment My friend later told me that it helped him immensely that I just listened without interrupting or judging.
2.Listening Helps – Let the Other Person Finish. Listening is one of the most important skills you can have in this situation Let the other person finish without jumping in with a solution right away Sometimes, they just need to be heard Show your conversation partner that you are there for them and thank them for their trust. It’s a big step to confide in someone, and your understanding can make a significant difference. From my experience with my friend, I learned that simply listening often helps more than well-meaning advice
3
AskTwice – Show Genuine Interest
To help your counterpart open up, ask again: "Are you really okay?" or "Would you like to talk more about it?" These simple questions show that you mean it and are ready to listen Often, people hide behind an "I'm fine" when they are actually not. By asking again, you signal that you are willing to go deeper and really listen. At first, my friend hesitated, but when he realized I was genuinely interested and ready to listen, he began to share more about his feelings
4 MentalHealthMatters – Take Care of Your Mental Health
Mental health is just as important as physical health and should be nurtured. Take time to invest in your own health. Whether through sports, meditation, hobbies, or talking with friends, find ways that are good for you. If you can’t do it alone, gather a team to support you Taking care of mental health is an ongoing process and should not be neglected In my own life, I have learned how important it is to regularly take breaks and maintain my inner balance
5.EndTheStigma – Help End the Stigma. Despite increasing awareness, mental health remains a taboo topic in our society. We can all contribute to ending this stigma by talking about the issue openly and reflectively Do not judge anyone who talks about their feelings or is affected by a mental illness Each of us can be an ally and actively help to recognize mental health for what it is – a fundamental part of our well-being My friend told me that one of the reasons he remained silent for so long was the fear of being judged. Through our conversations, however, he realized that he is not alone and that it is okay to seek help
According to the World Health Organization, approximately 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression. Men, in particular, tend to stay silent about their feelings, which often exacerbates the situation. It’s time to break these barriers and speak openly about mental health. If you or someone you know needs help, don’t hesitate to seek professional support There are numerous organizations and therapists ready to help
Friends for life for mental health has been the surface project for Round Table Germany in 2022/2023 We know that we moved people, we know that things turned for the better for some and that this was one of the projects, our society has been waiting for
Mental health concerns us all. Let’s work together to start the conversation, listen, and end the stigma. Every step we take toward openness and support is a step toward a healthier and more compassionate society My experience with my friend has shown me how important it is to be there for each other and to support one another Together, we can make a difference and create a world where mental health is just as recognized and important as physical health. Round Table can play a key factor in ending the stigma. We have already been starting to prove it. Let’s continue!
As this journey for us now is over 6 years, many stories can be told This is just one You can always ask about more stories, I am happy to tell them all! Especially the one, where we created a Tartan for Men’s Mental Health Awareness ;-) it looks amazing and is a conversation starter. Or, when I was awarded with the RTI Honor Medal for exactly that project.
So please, get in contact!
Love from Germany
YiT
Christoph Dietz
CSO Round Table Germany 2024/2025
Round Table 18 Wiesbaden
service@round-table.de
STNOFSWINTERCON
The STNOFS area winter conference held at the Carletonville 50 clubhouse was a remarkable success, showcasing the unity and progress of the Tables in our area. The event brought together the chairmen and members from various Tables, each eager to share their achievements and plans for the year This gathering not only celebrated the accomplishments of the past year but also set a promising tone for the future, highlighting the dedication and hard work of everyone involved The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and pride as each chairman took the stage to present their Table's accomplishments. It was inspiring to hear about the diverse range of projects and initiatives that have been undertaken, all aimed at making a positive impact in our communities. The consistent theme across all reports was growth and improvement, building on the solid foundations laid last year From community service projects to fundraising events, the breadth and depth of activities demonstrated the collective commitment to service and fellowship
One of the most notable aspects of the conference was the emphasis on collaboration and mutual support. Each Table shared not only their successes but also the challenges they faced and the strategies they employed to overcome them This open exchange of ideas and experiences fostered a sense of solidarity and learning, reinforcing the strength of our network It was evident that the collective wisdom and support of the STNOFS area were invaluable resources for each Table The conference also provided an opportunity to recognize and celebrate individual contributions. Awards and acknowledgments were given to those who have shown exceptional dedication and leadership These recognitions serve as a reminder of the importance of individual effort and the impact it can have on the broader community It was heartening to see so many members being celebrated for their hard work and commitment
A highlight of the conference was the induction of a new member, Desmond, into the Carletonville 50 Table. Desmond's induction symbolizes the ongoing expansion and rejuvenation of our organization, welcoming fresh perspectives and energy. His enthusiasm and commitment were evident as he took his oath, promising to uphold the values and principles of the Table This moment was met with applause and cheers, reflecting the warm and inclusive spirit of our community The venue, the Carletonville 50 clubhouse, was the perfect setting for this gathering. The well-appointed facilities and welcoming atmosphere contributed to the overall success of the event. The hospitality shown by the Carletonville 50 Table was exemplary, ensuring that all attendees felt comfortable and valued The effort put into organizing and hosting the conference did not go unnoticed and was greatly appreciated by all This year's winter conference not only celebrated the successes of the past but also set a promising tone for the future. The dedication and hard work of all the Tables in our area were evident, and it is clear that we are on a path to achieving even greater things together. The shared sense of purpose and commitment to making a positive difference in our communities were palpable throughout the event As we move forward, it is essential to maintain the momentum and continue building on the foundations laid during this conference The ideas and plans discussed must be turned into actions, and the collaborative spirit fostered must be sustained. Together, we can achieve our goals and continue to make a meaningful impact. Congratulations to all the chairmen and members who participated, and a warm welcome to Desmond Let's continue to build on our achievements and strive for excellence in all our endeavors The future looks bright for the STNOFS area, and with continued dedication and hard work, there is no limit to what we can achieve
Welcome to the Gauteng Area back story articles gentlemen!
I will be doing an interview with each of the Gauteng Area Exec members to find out more about each of them on your behalf, who they really are, when they joined table, how they heard of table and what got them into table and much more…. Basically, all the lekka juicy stuff as some might say In each article or mail I will be interviewing a different exec member for you guys Once all Gauteng Area exec members have been interviewed, I will move onto other members in the area The first person I had the pleasure to interview was our Gauteng Area
Constitutional advisor Chervaques Van Der Zee or as most of you might know “Chev”
Chev joined Table many many moons ago way back in 2013 and believe it or not, it was not in South Africa
He joined table in Bulawayo in Bulawayo 49 which is found in Zimbabwe! Who knew right? You think you know a guy
So, there he started his table career and then moved back to South Africa where he joined Roodepoort 162. There he remained until last year (2023) until the club was eventually closed after which he transferred to another nearby club (Florida 21). Soon our brother Chev will be leaving South Africa again as he is currently immigrating to Scotland where he will join another table locally there
Chev has currently been in table a whopping 11 years this year of which this year is his 2nd year on the RTGA Exec and he actually earned himself a fancy fancy 10year medal last year at the Gauteng Area AGM for being a tabler for 10 years (yes you get a fancy medal after 10 years in table) He was also member of RTCA at one point (Round Table Central Africa) This guy has been all over hey
The gent only turned 30 years old THIS year so he still has a whole decade left in front of him in table so he might very well earn himself some more fancy medals along the way if he pushes until 40 or further In a lot of parts in the UK you can actually table until your 45 years old and not 40 like in South Africa
Now how did such a young person end up joining table at such a young age you ask? Well, he is actually a 2nd Gen tabler thanks to his dad. He’s dad was in table and pulled him along to table meetings when he was. (hmm, think I need to pull my boys with me to meetings too)
Table has been very good for Chev, it has been good for his personal growth, same for most of us as I’m sure most of you would agree It is where he has learned many skills like conducting a meeting, how to present things and even as an 18 year old to just sit in a meeting and to behave yourself.
“EkreelBMGmaar ekgaannieeersdaar weesnie...”
As he would say in his own words and I quote “Ek het baie baie respect vir tafel en ek geniet dit verskriklik baie Dis vir my n fantastiese plek om mense te leer ken en om jouself te groei”
Now let’s talk about Chev’s goose. Like most good men, there is usually a very supportive partner in crime and that is this man’s wife Kirsty Table can be very enjoyable if you have your partner’s support and fortunately for Chev, his wife has been his rock and has supported him a lot with his table career.
She has been involved with table for the last 6 years and joined him when he joined Roodepoort 162 There was quite a while where she was the only woman who helped give them structure at their table She was always the leg of the table and always helped them in the right direction.
It has been a very nice experience for Chev to have his wife involved in table and it’s something he will always cherish
Well folks, that is a bit of background for you guys on our brother Chev Maybe you learned something about him that you didn’t know?
I hope you enjoyed the read
Interviewed by Wynand Warren
#RoundTableGauteng
#Participate
RT213VISITS
LOCALSCHOOLS: MENTALHEALTH AWARENESS
Welwitschia and Uni-Health visited Emma Hoogenhout Primary School on the 18th of March 2024 during the event Uni-Health, the health professionals were able to get the attention of 500 school children and 30 teachers addressing mental wellbeing and bullying catered for the level of maturity of the children visited on the day Mental health or well-being is a growing concern and this including bullying was addressed with interactive talks with learners and teachers. Allowing for a safe environment for the children to interact and opportunity was given for one-on-one sessions for any child who wished to talk to the psychologist of Uni-Health with the added value of the teachers being allowed to voice concerns and issues they might have with UniHealth. Uni-health had reported on 7 of the teachers of Emma Hoogenhoudt who used this opportunity and 14 children Wel213 had lined up Acasia High School and visited them on 26 March 2024 Uni-Health was able to engage with 500 learners and about 25 teachers also presenting the topic of Mental well-being and bullying. The interactive discussion bared fruit as Uni-health was bombarded with calls and requests after the session with the school from both teachers and parents of scholars, requesting for more information and more sessions at school
The last school visited was Hill Side Primary School and the reception was great Word of mouth spread quickly and the kids were prepared to engage the Uni-Health Psychologists who presented the talk.
The Bullying Topic was stretched out by the scholars with the questions asked and scenario creations coming from the teachers. The scholars were also very receptive to the mental health topic and the engagement of the scholars was a good sign of openness on the topic
After the three schools were completed it was evident that the need for more of these types of talks is needed at the schools visited and makes one wonder how much it is needed in other schools Wel213 would like to thank Old Mutual Namibia for the sponsorship that made it possible We as Wel213 are used to make the most of the little we have and this case was no different. Old Mutual had donated N$8000.00 towards the project, and Uni-Health had committed to double the value of the funds by donating another N$ 8000.00 in professional professional services
The project although completed with the school presentations is still make in rows today with Uni-Health still getting calls and donating their time to the scholars and teachers who had from these three schools for free
The total hours spent with scholars and teachers after these presentations to date have surpassed 100 hours and these are all professional help hours at no cost to the scholars or teachers through the Unicorn Foundation managed by Uni-Health. A total of 1500 scholars and 80 teachers were reached with the 3 presentations.
Project value to date far surpassed the donation we started with and all this from a common goal and eagerness to potentially change our youth’s mindset on Mental health and wellbeing To a mindset of positivity that Mental Health should be a topic open to talk about, this is Wel213 and Uni-Health’s drive for this project
RT213WEL: SBV DONATION
Welwitschia 213 was approached by SBV Namibia a Security Service Provider and long-standing supporter of Round Table Welwitschia 213 SBV had requested assistance to assist an old-age home in Windhoek as part of their corporate social responsibility Wel213 obliged and identified Eastern Court Old Age home in Klein Windhoek. Romeo and Amize both 41érs of Wel213 had read the brief from SBV and complied by sourcing and purchasing food items to support a family of 3-4 for at least 2 weeks SBV had donated N$6000 00 towards the cause and with this Wel213 was able to purchase nonperishable food items for the 15 households consisting of 2-3 elderly people staying in the Old age home housing. With hours as a timeline given to Wel213, we managed to purchase items and distribute said items to the Old age home all in the 3-hour timeline provided Eastern Court Caretaker and comity members were presented with the parcels and ensured that this was distributed to each of the 15 households in the Court. A huge thanks goes to SBV Namibia for the donation and ensuring that we where able to provide food items to the elderly that would subsidise their pantries for the next 2-3 weeks It makes a difference when companies like SBV Namibia take the time to approve and donate towards a worthy cause
RT213WELWITSCHIA
GrootOabPreWKdistribution
Welwitschia 213 took a quick drive to Groot Oab almost 50km out of town to visit Fawzi’s Soup Kitchen. Fawzi Kitchen has come a long way since we first started to support them in 2019 The Kitchen was the brainchild of a 10-year-old girl who decided to spend the little she had to buy soup and bread and give it out to the community Her parents supported her in this today this kitchen feeds between 200-250 children and elderly in Groot Oab every week Charmain, mother of this young initiator, has followed the advice of Wel213 and registered the soup kitchen as a non-profit and is waiting for their formal approval as this article is written.
It is inspirational how a girl at her age saw the need and decided to do something about it within her means Hence Wel213 has taken the kitchen under our wing for the last couple of years and has placed them in contact with companies and some of our sponsors who assist where they can
It would be a 1st for the father and some table duo, Chairman of Wel213 Xavier Strauss, and his Son Xandon to visit Fawzi’s kitchen.
The drive was quick and the distribution took a while with the cold numbing our limbs but once the 1st couple of Maize bags were offloaded the warmth slowly took over and the chairman became more talkative
Wel213 donated blankets and food items to the value of N$ 14400 The food items stretched the kitchens stock for another 4 months and the 140 blankets would keep warm children and elderly who participate in the food kitchen
With the distribution done and while frozen a bit in places, we headed back but not before we commemorated the trip with a group pic at the entrance of Groot Oab. Call me sentimental, but I do find it particularly special to share a picture with father and son tabling together
The Sandton Ladies Circle recently orchestrated a heartwarming outing for the children of Juno Aurora Children's Home, taking them on an educational adventure to Sci-BonoDiscovery Centre. This enriching experience was made possible by funds raised through a Gin & Cupcake Tasting event held earlier this year
Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, renowned for its interactive exhibits, provided a captivating backdrop for the children’s exploration of science and technology The day was filled with hands-on experiments, engaging demonstrations, and interactive workshops, sparking curiosity and a love for learning.
As a circle, we are incredibly proud of the positive impact we’ve made Seeing the children’s excitement was truly rewarding and highlights the difference we can make through community efforts. We look forward to making an even bigger impact in our communities, so please stay tuned to our socials to find out how YOU can help with our upcoming projects
This outing underscores the power of collective action and the joy of providing educational opportunities. The Sandton LadiesCircle is grateful to all who supported the event and looks forward to future initiatives that continue to enrich the lives of local children
A standout moment of the excursion was building the African continent as a puzzle together, which thrilled the children and opened their eyes to the world.
Such experiences are rare for these children, making the outing particularly special.
Bonds of Friendship and Purpose: ADayofCommunityConnection
It's with great joy that we share the news of our successful fundraiser held on Saturday, 29th June 2024, at the Crossways robots in Hilton, KZN Our lovely ladies from the Midlands Ladies Circle in Formation gathered bright and early at 9am, donning our iconic pink hats and proudly carrying small pink buckets adorned with the Ladies Circle South Africa logo.
Our mission was to raise funds for our upcoming Charter weekend in November 2024, and we were determined to make it a memorable day! We spread out along the busy roads, enthusiastically holding out our buckets and handing out flyers to passing motorists and pedestrians alike The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many generous souls stopping to chat and contribute to our cause. The morning was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a sense of purpose. As we worked together, we strengthened our bonds as a group and created awareness about our wonderful circle and its objectives
It was an incredible opportunity for us to get to know one another better, share stories, and build relationships that will last a lifetime
We're thrilled to announce that our efforts yielded a substantial amount of funds, which will go towards supporting the aims and objectives of Ladies Circle South Africa.
As we look ahead to our next fundraiser, we're already excited to do it all again with the lovely ladies who make up our circle We're proud to be part of an organisation that empowers women, fosters friendship, and gives back to the community
Thank you again to everyone who participated, contributed, or supported us in any way Your efforts are truly appreciated!
Stay tuned for updates on our future events and initiatives. Until next time, stay fabulous and keep shining your light!
My name is Caroline Nyaradzai Mukombachoto, a 4th-year Student Social Worker at UNISA, currently doing my practical at CMR Witbank, and proud Secretary of Ladies Circle Witbank 26 Our organization is dedicated to making a difference in the community, and I am thrilled to share the success of our recent book drive project!
The goal of our project was to collect books from the community and donate them to the Rizpah foster homes. We aimed to install a culture of reading and promote positive behavioural changes among the children By providing these books, we hope to increase the children’s academic success, vocabulary development, attention, and future job attainment Additionally, this initiative will help improve their literacy skills, broaden their cultural understanding, and foster a lifelong interest in learning
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who took part in this project. Your generous contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of these children. The list of supporters is long, but each and every one of you has my heartfelt thanks
Together, we are making a difference, one book at a time!
Yolandi Gray-Browne: Serving as President - Yolandi brings a wealth of experience and a deep dedication to our organisation's values
Riana Klopper: Continuing her journey as Immediate Past President - Riana's wisdom and guidance will be invaluable.
Susan de Kock: Stepping into the role of Vice PresidentSusan's leadership promises to inspire and drive us forward
Sulette van der Berg: As Secretary - Sulette ensures our operations run smoothly with her organisational prowess.
Diane Fourie: Managing our finances as Treasurer - Diane ensures fiscal responsibility and transparency
Sandra Lawrenson: With her expertise as WebmasterSandra keeps us connected and informed in the digital age.
Together, they form a dynamic team committed to fostering friendship, promoting service, and making a positive impact in our communities Join us in welcoming and supporting our new board for 2024!
In 2024, Ladies Circle Northridge 7 initiated a heartwarming initiative across South Africa, aiming to foster and ignite friendships and service in collaboration with their fellow brothers in Round Table.
Spanning various locations across South Africa and expanding further, the event aimed to nurture lasting relationships and joint efforts in service Each participating club, including Round Table Matlosane 45, Round Table Golden East 181, Round Table Boksburg 17, Round Table Northridge 117, Round Table Florida 21 and Round Table Sandown 150, received a symbolic purple candle This candle symbolizes unity and is lit at their business meetings with the motto, "We light this candle for friendships locally, nationally and internationally "
Under the guidance of Sue-Mari Warren, this ongoing initiative continues to bring people together to unite and foster connections. It focuses on the spirit of collaboration and community, emphasizing the importance of coming together in friendship and service
Round Table Sandown 150 expressed their gratitude: "Thank you to Ladies Circle Northridge 7. We appreciate the candle and the first lighting of it at a Sandown 150 business meeting on 11 June 2024 Today, we light this candle for friendship locally, nationally and internationally " Looking ahead, Ladies Circle invites all supporters to follow and champion their cause Join us in illuminating pathways towards stronger communities and enduring friendships.
For more details and to stay updated, follow Northridge Ladies’ Circle 7 on Facebook
WEL213 INDUCTION DINNER
Welwitschia 213 had their induction dinner in April 2024. This induction dinner marked the end of an Era and the start of a new Era for Welwitschia 213
The club has been in operation for the better part of 44 years Welwitschia 213 has been in existence with each era starting and ending with tablers joining and exiting the table. Wel213 said goodbye to the last remaining tabler who has tabled for more than 14-15 years in the club leaving behind tablers with less than 4 years of tabling experience The end of an era that held the old and bound the new for Welwitschia 213 Needless to say, this was a special Induction dinner for all Wel213 hosted the Namibia Area and club Chairmen as well as old club Chairmen and 41érs at the Arreabusch Lodge. The attendance of previous chairman Hochland 154 and Walvis Bay 36 as well as past Area Chairman of RTNAM was noted The evening started off well with the Master of Ceremony ensuring the guests were entertained. It was a full family affair with two tablers ensuring their baby boys were also attending. The ladies looked ravishing and complemented the gents. The Club leadership was given over for the last time (literally the last time because the 45-year rule was voted against phew that was close ) by the outgoing Chairman Amize Adams to the incoming chairman Xavier Strauss. The new Era began that night when the last remaining tabler who had tabled with more than 3 different generations of tablers on a Club level, Area Level, and RTSA level exited the club
Xavier Strauss introduced the incoming Council for Wel213 for 2024, Vice Chairman Romano Ramothibe doubling up with the IRO /PRO portfolio, Tommy J Snyder as the Secretary and Treasurer, and the Club Chairman usurping the role of Constitutional Advisor The club is in good hands with the younger and more energetic tablers being the core of Wel213
The trophy for tabler of the year was awarded to Xavier Strauss on the night as the Winter Knights Convener and running a massive Winter Knights Campaign one of the biggest Area Winter Knights campaigns held in the last 4-5 years while in a hospital bed Nothing could keep him from completing his task hence the reason for being awarded the Tabler of the Year 2023 for Wel213
The last honour was given to Amize Adams as the 41ér leaving the club and he was handed his walking stick but unfortunately couldn’t leave the stage with the said walking stick because he had one already and to support all the medals on his jacket. I now know the real reason he needs a crutch on his left is to balance out the weight when he wears the service medals he was awarded throughout his years of service The impact this gentleman, has had, is matched by non, on Welwitschia 213 club level, Namibia Area level, and RTSA level Crossing borders and building bridges that we as tablers can walk on and do more and achieve more within the Namibia Area, RTSA, and abroad It was an honour to serve Round Table with this gentleman.
The night was concluded with the DJ making it very hard to stick to the closure time with the music he was spinning.
To the new Welwitschia 213 members and Council all the best for the year ahead and may it be filled with fellowship and hard work and the balance be kept as far as possible
Powerlines239Responds toFamilyinCrisis
When a family in dire need reached out to Powerlines 239, their plea did not go unanswered The family was facing overwhelming challenges as their newborn baby girl was born with a heart condition at a provincial hospital Tragically, just two days after the baby's birth, the father, who was the sole provider, passed away after battling aggressive cancer.
Moved by this heartbreaking situation, Powerlines 239 responded with compassion and urgency In just two days, a total of R 5,800 00 was raised to support the family Round Table Middelburg 126 generously donated R 2,600.00, while Flecte Engineering contributed R 1,000.00. The remaining funds were collected from within the Powerlines Tablers community
With the funds raised, vouchers were purchased at Pick and Pay for groceries and clothing. These vouchers were then delivered to the family, serving as both practical assistance and a heartfelt gesture of condolences during their time of need The coordination of this initiative was led by project conveners Dean van Der Walt and Vernon Jacobs, whose dedication and leadership were instrumental in providing muchneeded support to this struggling family Through their efforts and the generosity of the community, a ray of hope was brought to a family facing overwhelming adversity
Generosity:RevampingLocal SquashCourts
In a heartwarming display of community spirit and generosity, the Round Table Barberton has contributed R5000 towards the refurbishment of the local squash courts This act of goodwill aims to breathe new life into a beloved community facility, ensuring that squash enthusiasts of all ages have access to wellmaintained and aesthetically pleasing courts
The decision to donate towards the repainting and renovation of the squash courts underscores Round Table Barberton’s commitment to enhancing opportunities within the community. Such initiatives not only promote physical activity but also foster a sense of unity and pride among residents
Squash, a sport known for its fast-paced nature and competitive spirit, relies heavily on the quality of its playing surfaces Over time, wear and tear can diminish the appeal and functionality of courts, making upkeep essential. By stepping in to support these renovations, Round Table Barberton has taken a proactive stance in preserving a valuable asset for current and future generations.
The impact of this donation extends beyond mere aesthetics Well-maintained courts can attract more players, host local tournaments, and potentially nurture budding talent within the community Moreover, a refreshed environment encourages regular participation in physical activity, contributing to the overall health and well-being of residents.
Their willingness to invest in projects that benefit the community at large reflects a deep-rooted belief in social responsibility and civic pride By collaborating with the local squash club, they have exemplified how collective efforts can yield tangible improvements in community infrastructure
EASTEREGGHAMPERPROJECTREPORT
As part of the NSCA Area Project, Westville189 adopted to participate in the Easter Egg Hamper Project for our community We discussed internally, and being our first year, approached Westville Boys High and Atholl Heights Schools Two of the largest schools in our area The project is simple, with students receiving an order sheet and selling two different sized hampers to family, friends and the community. Each hamper sold provides a profit to the school so that they may fund raise for projects or future plans for the schools’ future plans
Both schools tackled the project with enthusiasm, selling close to 1000 hampers in total across the two schools The funds raised will see the development of a foundation stage school for Atholl Heights and a potential coding division for WBHS
The distribution of the eggs would not be possible thanks to the assistance of MobiClaw Response, Jukes Pizza and The Dawson Team at Shelley Residential, who assisted us in loading their vehicles and delivering the hampers to the schools Thank you, the time, out of your busy schedules to assist us
In summary, the project raised a total of R162 000, with a profit of approx R20 000 raised between the two schools and another R20 000 raised for the general fund of Westville189.
WARMFEES BRINGSTHE HEATTO SECUNDA
Secunda, 5th-6th July 2024 – The Secunda Round Table 231 and the Secunda 41'ers hosted a heartwarming charity event, Warm Fees, that resonated deeply with the community’s spirit of giving and unity Among the highlights was the presence of the renowned Martin Bester from Jacaranda, who, along with his band, set the stage alight with soulful and captivating music
A Vibrant Celebration
The event was a vibrant celebration featuring a variety of activities designed to engage and entertain. Attendees enjoyed a lively flea market, diverse food stalls, an ice bath challenge for Tablers, a modelling competition, and a car and sound competition A lineup of incredible performances from various talented bands and artists added a unique flavour to the festivities, making it an unforgettable experience for all
A Unique Entry Fee
One of the most notable aspects of Warm Fees was the entrance fee: a blanket per person per day Over the course of the two days, the community's generosity shone brightly, resulting in the collection of 2,200 blankets. This overwhelming response was bolstered by the contributions from schools that collected blankets prior to the event, showcasing the collective goodwill and compassion of everyone involved
Distinguished Guests
The event also had the honour of hosting Round Table South Africa’s current President, Antonie Smit, and Vice President, Vos Botha Their presence, along with Tablers from various other Tables in South Africa and members of the Ladies Circle, greatly supported the event’s success. Their contributions were invaluable in creating an amazing and successful event.
to name a few. These donations provided essential warmth and comfort to those in need, reinforcing the event's impact
Benefitting the Community
The collected blankets were distributed to several charitable organisations, including SPCA Bethal DBV, Janelle Huis, Khulula Animal Welfare Society, Palm Oord, Basezeni Special School, and Maria Old Age Home, to name a few. These donations provided essential warmth and comfort to those in need, reinforcing the event's impact.
A Testament to Generosity
Warm Fees not only provided essential donations but also fostered a sense of community and shared commitment to making a difference The event was a testament to the power of generosity, music, and community spirit coming together to create lasting memories and reaffirm the impact of collective goodwill
Creating
Lasting Impact
The success of Warm Fees highlights the importance of community events in driving positive change. It stands as a reminder of what can be achieved when people come together with a common purpose. The Secunda Round Table 231 and the Secunda 41'ers have set a remarkable example of how to adapt, adopt, and improve for the betterment of society
NAMIBIA:ARTSA2024FEEDBACK...
Welwitschia was represented by Xavier Strauss and Amize Adams along with Michelle Strauss ( Leg) The event spanned over 3 days and was well attended by the Namibian Area as a whole
We hit the Road on the 23rd of April and linked up with the Coastal and Central Tablers in Windhoek and began our journey towards The South Cape. It was a very long drive, however, when you are with like-minded fun individuals the road becomes significantly shorter.
We arrived at our destination evening of the 24th and had an early night in preparation for the festivities to come
The next morning the Tablers were up bright and early and we started mingling with our area counterparts and guests as well as picking up our regalia for the event In true Nam Area fashion, the raiding had started ever so slightly before the official opening ( the early bird catches the worm, and in this case banners lol) With fresh raids under our belts we explored the beach town, there was something very familiar about the beach vibe restaurants and pubs and we completely felt at home. On the 26th the food table competition kicked off with the Namibian Area taking hands and going into overdrive, prepping and cooking and this that, and the other The guys were exhausted but happy Nam Area came 5th, “Hopefully we change that next year ”
Once the competition was concluded we pulled up to the “hardcore hut” Yes you read right “ the hardcore hut” a pretty self-explanatory name, this was our watering spot, for the duration of the evening, where we did the AREA Shirt Exchange event
The AGM on the 27th was well attended and was reassuring for me that the organization that I chose, was noble and had a righteous cause ( right on brother) All AREAS were represented and truthfully there were so many people in attendance that it felt like independence celebrations.
That evening we wined and dined at the award ceremony. Everyone looked like they stepped out of a magazine… The ladies were stunning and the gentlemen were well they were well dressed I suppose All jokes aside Nam Area cleans up well
The next morning we hit the road back to Namibia Believe it or not even though we were tired and sore, on our way back we still managed to tell a joke share a laugh, learned some wisdom and we all recon that it was one “Hellova TRIP”
award. The prize? A fantastic trip up Sani Pass, which promises to be an adventure of a lifetime!
The Sani152 community truly came out in full support, turning the event into a festive celebration Families, friends, and supporters gathered, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere It was a weekend filled with laughter, friendly competition, and unforgettable memories.
The Sani152 Tennis Tournament was a testament to the power of community and the joy of sports It wasn’t just about winning matches; it was about coming together, having fun, and making lasting connections. Our participation and recognition as the best-spirited team have undoubtedly strengthened our bond with the Sani152 community
Westville189 attended the Sani152 Tennis Tournament! Hosted by the fabulous ladies of the Sani152 Club and was nothing short of spectacular We arrived early in the crisp morning air, greeted by a brisk -8 degrees Celsius But the cold didn’t dampen our spirits; instead, it set the perfect stage for a day filled with warmth and camaraderie. The theme, "Wimblegin," was a delightful twist on Wimbledon, infused with the refreshing zest of bottomless Gin and Tonic from That Brewing Co A match made in heaven, right? Sixteen enthusiastic teams from the area came together, ready to battle it out on the courts. The energy was palpable, with each team bringing their A-game, vying for glory. And let me tell you, the competition was fierce! Amidst the rallying and cheering, our very own Westville189 team stood out for their unmatched spirit and enthusiasm We didn’t just play tennis; we brought the fun and the energy that lit up the entire tournament. Our team’s lively presence and positive vibes won us the prestigious "Best Spirited Team" F U N A N D S P I R I T E D R E P O R T O N T H E R O U N D T A B L E S A N I 1 5 2 T E N N I S T O U R N A M E N T
We’re already looking forward to next year’s tournament and the many opportunities it brings to further showcase our club’s spirit and sportsmanship. Here's to more fun, more tennis, and more community engagement!
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Are you aware that all regalia (Shirts , banners,pins,etc) needs to be approved by the Regalia committee ? Please send your images / examples for approval to Branding@roundtable.co.za
2 1 The primary or secondary Rondel (in all its different versions) are to be used at all times, alternatively only the Rondel relating to pins and coins.
2.2 The sub-branding ( any other logo ) should never overlap the Rondel, Exceptthe instance where the primary or secondary logo is already displayed elsewhere and a second Rondel is obscured by sub-branding.
2.3 The Rondel is an asset of RTSA and all new designs, which includes the Rondel, should be sent to the regalia committee for approval.
2 4 All Artwork of regalia should comply with the Aims and Objectives of RTSA
2 5 All regalia that is intended to be re-sold at a profit, must be approved by the Regalia Committee
