- Several South Africans were awarded Civic Honours for their role in society around Cape Town and the world during a ceremony held at the City of Cape Town Council Chambers earlier today (Wednesday).
- It was the first time in twelve years that the Civic Honours were awarded in Cape Town.
- Recipients included Albie Sachs, Athol Fugard, Basil D’Oliveira, Bennie Rabinowitz, Brenda Fassie, Breyten Breytenbach, Desiree Ellis, AG “Sailor” Malan, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, Jonathan Butler, Pieter-Dirk Uys, Krotoa, and Dr Thabo Makgoba.
Nine recipients also received the Mayor’s Medal.
The accolade recognises people or associations serving a community with dedication and sacrifice.
It was awarded to Friends of Mostert’s Mill; Tracey Chambers, and Tracey Gilmore, Danny Diliberto, Shaleen Surtie-Richards, Busy Bees Rugby Club, Hank Lith, Zoë Prinsloo, Volunteer Wildfire Services and Athol Williams.
Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis says he wants to recognise the remarkable impact the recipients have made.
“Today is about recognising the contributions of some truly remarkable people – whether a living person or in memory of someone who has passed away – and to reflect on their achievements and the impact they’ve made in society. We express our deepest admiration and gratitude to them all.”
Founder of Gift of the Givers Imtiaz Sooliman says he accepts the award on behalf of all people rendering a service in the country and to South Africans.
“I am honoured that I am not from Cape Town and they recognise me. To be recognised with all the quality of people who have come here, it’s great South Africans. I would like to remember all those people who were not called here. I want to recognise my family, 35 years of sacrifice from them and my teams who work 365 days a year and never complain.”
Former Banyana Banyana player and team captain Desiree Ellis, who now coaches the team, says she feels blessed.
“I am truly grateful and blessed to get this award. Even though I don’t live in Cape Town, I am Capetonian. It’s through the hard work of the players and the staff of Banyana, but everyone involved in women’s football. Not just women’s football, but women in sport.”
Upon receiving the mayor’s medal, Ladles of Love founder Danny Diliberto says: “We don’t do it for recognition, but it’s always great to be recognised. I receive this more for everyone. Ladles of Love has achieved what it has because of the power of collaboration. Most important is our mama warriors out there who are selflessly cooking, those are our heroes, they keep our nation standing.”
