A Wall of Honour was unveiled this week in Monte Vista to honour residents who have made a difference in the leafy community and surrounds. The wall is located on the corners of Monte Vista Boulevard and Wingfield Place, where a Memorial Forest was established a few years ago.

The unveiling was attended by Cheryl Visser, Ward 1 councillor and Bronwen Williams, superintendent for the City of Cape Town’s Department of Recreation and Parks: Area North.

Tyrel Painczyk, chair of the Monte Vista and Plattekloof Glen Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association, said five residents were acknowledged for their work in the community so far, and were presented with plaques.

First five recipients

The five include the late Vic Barra, who was a member of the Monte Vista and Plattekloof Glen Neighbourhood Watch; Patrick Rhategan, former chair of the ratepayers’ and residents’ association for several years; Pierre Gouws, owner of a private security company and also former chair of the ratepayers’ and residents’ association; Joe Simon, former mayor of the Goodwood Municipality; and Kelvin Irvine, former vice-chair of the ratepayers’ and residents’ association and honorary member.

“This wall represents the community and honours residents for their commitment and contribution to the community, making Monte Vista and Plattekloof Glen a better place,” Painczyk wrote on the organisation’s social media page.

He added that it was a truly special moment.

Painczyk said anyone can be nominated to be considered to receive the honour in future.

Riana de Wet, current vice-chair of the ratepayers’ and residents’ association, wrote that the five names were carefully selected, with each individual recognised for a unique and meaningful contribution. “You will notice that each plaque tells a personal story, highlighting not only who the individual is, but also what they contributed, why it matters, and how their legacy can guide us going forward,” she explained.

Irvine, one of the recipients, told TygerBurger that he felt honoured.

“I never set out to do anything for glory or recognition but only wanted to assist the community and be an example for my children and leave the world in a better way than I found it. I am truly honoured and humbled by the honour, and I wish to thank the committee and the community. I am a testament to community activism done right can work,” Irvine explained.

Nominations

Residents are invited to nominate individuals whom they believe are worthy of this special recognition. Each nomination will be carefully considered and evaluated against the Community Honour Award Criteria, De Wet wrote.

Nominations must be submitted in writing, with a motivation and e-mailed to secretary@mvratepayers.co.za

“We encourage residents to give careful thought to the individuals they nominate. Please provide a clear motivation describing the person’s contribution, the impact of their work and, where possible, the lasting difference they have made to our community. The Wall of Honour is an opportunity to preserve our community’s history, celebrate exceptional people and inspire future generations to continue building on the foundations they have laid, De Wet wrote.

“This award recognises individuals whose dedication, leadership and service have made a lasting and meaningful contribution to the Monte Vista community and its residents,” De Wet concluded.

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