The Soweto Rotary Community Corps (SRCC) officially launched on September 28, 2024, at a chartering event that brought together local leaders, Rotarians, and community members to work toward a common goal: building a better Soweto. Rotary Community Corps (RCC) are community-based organizations that partner with Rotary clubs, empowering locals to solve their own problems through service projects.
This chartering event marked a significant step in expanding Rotary’s presence in Soweto. Held at the scenic Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers, the event drew around 40 attendees, including members of the sponsor club, the Rotary Club of Johannesburg New Dawn, with representation from other Rotary clubs such as Johannesburg East, Fourways, and Sandton.
Key figures included Rotary District Governor George Senosha, Ward 39 Councillor Lefa Molise, and Carol McCullar from the USA, founder of the “Read Like a Champion” literacy program.
The chartering was followed by an induction ceremony of the Chairperson. The newly inducted Soweto RCC Chairperson Carol Dyantyi – a prominent local community developer – delivered an inspiring speech about the importance of Rotary’s values and affirmed the Soweto RCC’s dedication to making sure Paul Harris’ vision is realized in Soweto.
She spoke passionately about the importance of continuing the legacy of Rotary founder Paul Harris, and emphasized the challenges the community faces, particularly with youth and environmental concerns, and committed the SRCC to taking active steps to address them.
Cllr. Lefa Molise stressed the importance of partnerships between government, community, and organizations like Rotary to tackle local issues.
The outdoor venue at Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers provided the perfect backdrop for a memorable celebration. The event featured live music from African bands Abangoma and Six Mabone, creating a relaxed atmosphere at the outdoor venue. A locally inspired lunch at Lebo’s Backpackers rounded off the day, where guests and tourists mingled, adding to the event’s sense of connection.
The Soweto RCC announced its Keep Kasi Klean initiative, an ongoing program aimed at eradicating illegal dumpsites in Soweto and converting them into positive green spaces by 2026. This program, originally scheduled to kickstart on World Cleanup Day, will now proceed as an ongoing project. With the chartering event complete, the Soweto RCC begins its work, focusing on community development, education, and environmental initiatives to address Soweto’s most pressing needs.