Outgoing chairman of Round Table speaks out about his experience
After being the chairperson of Round Table 17 Boksburg for two years, André van Vuuren will be handing over the reins to Jean-Claude Duarte.
The Advertiser caught up with their local outgoing president to learn more about his experience at Round Table.
Q: What inspired you to become part of the organisation?
A: I was invited to Round Table by Charl Scholtz, who was passionate about Round Table and his passion convinced me to attend my first meeting. After seeing all the positives of Round Table, such as charity work, friendships and networking, I decided to join the organisation as I realised I can add value, and being part of Round Table will also add value to my own life. My mentor, Ronnie Matthews, was also chairman of Boksburg Round Table in 1977 and he also encouraged me to become part of Round Table.
Q: How long have you been part of Round Table and what made you stay?
A: I have been part of Round Table for six years now. Even though we do a lot of good work in the community, I think the main thing that made me stay was the friendships I made.
Q: What is your favourite memory of being part of the organisation?
A: There are a lot of great memories, and that makes it hard to pick one, but I always love seeing the children’s faces when Round Table Gauteng area hosts a Christmas party for hundreds of underprivileged children.
Q: What were the highs and lows you experienced during your time at Round Table?
A: My high point in table was when we brought Boksburg Round Table from almost closing down to a thriving table with good members who are all friends. My low point was when former chairman and my good friend Charl Scoltz passed away in 2018.
Q: What project from Round Table is close to your heart and why?
A: Winter Knights is my favourite project – getting together with your friends and driving around handing out blankets, clothing and food to the homeless in the community. Knowing you just made their lives a bit better is an awesome experience. We are already preparing for this coming winter and if people have any donations they are welcome to contact me.
Q: What challenges did you face as the chairman?
A: Getting the membership number up was my biggest challenge as chairman. With our busy lives and work commitments, it is hard to find good members who are willing to commit so much time to an organisation such as Round Table. If you want to be part of Round Table you have to sacrifice some time to the organisation, but it is worth it.
Q: Do you have any plans for the future?
A: Now that I am no longer chairman I will have more time and opportunity to run new projects.
Q: Do you have any advice for Jean Claude, who will be taking over the reins from you?
A: Our new chairman is a very experienced tabler, so my only advice to him is to keep Boksburg Round Table true to its roots and traditions as Boksburg Round Table has a long history, being one of the oldest tables in SA.
More about André
“I was raised by a single mother after my father passed away at an early age. I grew up on the East Rand most of my life. We did move to the Cape twice. Howeverm I seem to always end up back in Boksburg. In 2011 I began my career in the Boksburg property market and that is what I have been doing ever since.
Interesting facts about the outgoing president
• He enjoys golf.
• He has five dogs.
• He is passionate about music and likes to read motivational books.
Also Read: Round Table brings warmth to the needy
