Teboho Setena
The Growing up Without a Father Foundation rolled out the red carpet for a group of 53 chosen men in Bloemfontein who define leadership and fatherhood traits. They were bestowed the signature “Father of the Nation” recognition at a function held at the Rooftop in Heidedal on Friday, 16 May.
Dr Charley Pietersen, founder of the foundation, bestowed on them the Men of Valour award. Recipients range from different sectors of society; of the younger, as well as the previous, generation.
According to Pietersen, the chosen few define the term “fatherhood” during a time when the stature of men is being eroded for all the wrong deeds performed by a minority.
“These awards are not only a tribute to men who uplift families, communities, and the country at large, but also serve a critical purpose: To raise awareness around the devastating impact of fatherlessness, the rising crisis of gender-based violence (GBV), and the often-overlooked plight of the boy child in South Africa.
“The decision for the younger men is very simple and compelling: Take a leaf and good life lessons from the older generation.
“Hence, I brought these young men to meet the older men, to take the baton of leadership role from them,” said Pietersen.
According to him, this gesture to crisscross the country to honour those portraying positive fatherhood traits is critical in South Africa.
“At a time when our society urgently needs positive male figures, these honourees stand as role models, mentors, and protectors – men who champion dignity, equality, and compassion. Through their work and character, they challenge harmful stereotypes, foster healing, and build a safer and more just South Africa.
“This recognition is both a celebration and a call to action.”
The latest recognition adds to the more than 50 men, both nationally and internationally, to already have received it.
Richard Khuduga, well-known entrepreneur in the greater Bloemfontein, has expressed appreciation for being among the chosen few bestowed the “Father of the Nation” honour ante-mortem.
“This is a big honour, being honoured while alive, something I never planned. Being a father, you do not expect anything to come to you. You are always expected to give and give, support, monitor and groom the young ones. But getting the honour for being a father is something I believe each man feels excited about. http://Growing up Without a Father Foundation recognizes men
“Truly speaking, I do not have the perfect words to describe the excitement that comes with that honour. But seeing yourself honoured by a child you groomed and brought up in a leadership role is something I cherish. It is humbling,” said Khuduga.
Arrie Beukes said the gesture aligned with the reference to goodwill in the Bible, more specifically “men of honour” or “men of God”.
“It came at a time when I think there is little recognition for men as fathers, who can play a significant role in because of what we see unfold.
“But Charley did something out of this world, honouring the 50 plus men while they are still alive, when we can experience the joy and respect.
“I really feel blessed and equally humbled being among the men he recognised. It is my wish that his foundation be blessed even more so,” said Beukes, one of the notable football and sport administrators in Bloemfontein and Heidedal.
The recipients are:
1. Kevin de Beer;
2. Antonio De Geuvaia;
3. Anton Nicolaisen;
4. Pano Joannides;
5. Dr Nathan Bagarette;
6. Dr Thabo Pitse;
7. Trevor Wymers;
8. Johan Volsteedt;
9. Jimmy Augousti;
10. Eugene Goeieman;
11. Hendrik Samuel van Wyk;
12. Pieter Raymond Delport;
13. Kobus Pies;
14. Dr Frans Buys;
15. Henk Kearney;
16. Prof. Wayne Marais;
17. Douglas Henney;
18. Dr Ray Plaatjies;
19. Dr Reynoldt van der Ross;
20. Victor Mahatanya;
21. Willem van Huyssteen;
22. Arrie Beukes;
23. Richard Khuduga;
24. Quentin Canavan;
25. Apostle Rowland Mogaecho;
26. Apostle George Swartz;
27. Mar Scholtz;
28. Angelo Mocki;
29. Barry Jakobus;
30. Richardo Nathan van de Walt;
31. Pastor Phillip Heyns;
32. Pastor Willie Norris;
33. Hubert Barlow;
34. Dick Jansen;
35. Lebohang Mahoko;
36. Lloyd Hendricks;
37. John Page;
38. Johnny Brown;
39. Daniel Mac Pherson;
40. Botha Msila;
41. Leornardo Peters;
42. Sharad Petersen;
43. Wendall Derison;
44. Felix Mokoena;
45. Rev Deon Potgieter;
46. Kris Senosi;
47. Donavan Pieterse;
48. Thys Spies;
49. Thato Moralo; and
50. Biko Mogotsi.
