Social network organisation, Ladies Circle No 29 Port Alfred, are on a mission to intensify their collaboration with other social service organisations to “uplift those in need in the region”.
Incoming chairperson, Nicole Riddin, who was ushered in to the hot seat at an induction dinner at Round Table 177 clubhouse on Saturday night, having taken over the reins from Michelle Marais, said her goal was to sustain assistance to organisations such as the Jehovah Jireh Children’s Care Centre.
Outgoing chair, Michelle Marais, after handing over the to her successor, Riddin, said her reign had been a huge learning curve.
“The year came with it’s own worries and challenges but, as always, we learned to improve and we moved forward. I can confidently say we are more united than ever. It has been truly a dream come true to lead such a loving, caring and determined group of women who are making a difference in our community.”
Marais said the organisation had grown from strength to strength since its formation two years ago and ongoing projects had made an impact in the surrounding communities. She highlighted some of them.
“ We collected stationery from the community and donated to a special needs care centre in Bathurst and Jehovah Jireh Haven. Our Women’s Day seminar in August was a vast improvement on the previous year’s. Our school career day in collaboration with the department of education helped Grade 9 learners from Kuyasa and Nomzamo High decide on their futures. At our Easter drive we distributed 33 boxes (Easter Egg Chocolates) in Nemato. And we delivered blankets to the local hospice in June.”
Jehovah Jireh was front and centre among the organisation outreaches. “Whenever we had books or clothes or other items we made sure to visit and deliver there.”
“The Bathurst show in April deserves a huge shout out … what an amazing and heart-warming experience. Ladies I am proud of us. We ran the tea garden and we were given just over two-weeks’ notice and it was successful.”
Marais admitted that chairing an organisation “sometimes felt like managing a toddler’s tantrum … challenging but oh so rewarding“.
The outgoing chair handed out awards to Sunette Kew (project of the year), Gwen Scheepers (stirrer of the year) before Riddin stepped up for her induction for the year 2025-26.
“It’s a great pleasure to hand over my torch to our incoming chairperson, Nicole Riddin. I wish you joy, all the strength and wisdom you will need, with heart. May your year be filled with unforgettable moments and beautiful achievements,” said Marais.
Riddin said she was grateful for the trust and support all members had placed in her..
“Being part of of Ladies Circle 29 has been a meaningful journey. And stepping in to the role is an honour and a responsibility.”
“Melissa our your dedication , passion and vision not only helped found this incredible circle but laid the foundation for everything we are today. I am grateful to be following in your footsteps.”
“The Ladies Circle is an orgainsation rooted in service, support and connection. It’s about coming together and to uplift those in need and we do this by building relationships with our communities.”
“One of my main goals this year is to build a closer partnership with other like-minded organisations. In particular, I would like for us to continue supporting the Jehovah Jireh Children’s home in Alexandria. The work they do is incredibly close to my heart. We can make a real impact there with fundraising and consistent support,” added Riddin.
Incoming Board:
Chairperson: 𝐍𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐑𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐧
Vice chairperson: 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐪𝐮𝐞 𝐯𝐨𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲: 𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞 𝐊𝐞𝐰
𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐫: 𝐆𝐰𝐞𝐧 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬
𝐈𝐑𝐎/𝐏𝐑𝐎: 𝐉𝐮𝐝𝐲 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐤
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This article was first published in Talk of the Town, May 15, 2025. The newspaper serving the communities of Ndlambe and the Sunshine Coast, with a weekly wrap of Makhanda news, is available at stores from early on Thursdays.