Local heroes in communities often go unnoticed, and this week, we profile Walter Daniels who is Bokmakierie’s all rounder.
Mr Daniels became a volunteer in his community in 2005 by soliciting donations for various charities and clubs in the area.
Last year he helped to organise the Youth Day and Heritage Day events, which were well supported by residents in and around Bokmakierie.
In 1991 he was one of the founding members of Hazendal United’s soccer tournament, which is still running.
“I don’t focus on any one thing specifically, but I go where I am needed,” said Mr Daniels. “Bokmakierie might not have the money or resources, but we do have people with a drive for change.
“As long as the organisation inspires and creates a better community, I will help them.
“Sometimes I don’t have the resources, and I tell them that, but I also tell them that I will see what I can do. Sometimes something that seems impossible is possible.”
One of his biggest highlights, he said, was organising the birthday weekend celebration earlier this year for 100-year-old Spasie Jacobs (“Ma Spasie’s 100th birthday,” Athlone News, September 19).
He contacted various stores for donations and ended up with enough for an all-weekend party, including more than one birthday cake.
Mr Daniels helps the youth draft CVs and refers people to the ward councillor’s office if they need help.
“I do this while I can because when I’m older I won’t be able to. I hope that one of these youngsters will take over one day. I do this so that I can empower and inspire people. I also make sure to connect with organisations outside to bring more to our community. By helping them with a CV they can get jobs because many of the youth are unemployed,” he said.
He is also a volunteer at the HHH Ministries church in Hazendal.
“I love what I do; I don’t get paid to do it. I just simply help out where I am needed,” he said.