New head of funding at Gateway Village

Gateway Village in Ruimsig has a new head of fundraising – hairdresser Chanelle Bekker. “My grandmother was in a wheelchair and I understand the needs disabled people have. I have always wanted to give back. When I heard there was a position opening at Gateway I applied and luckily the chairman Pierre Marais liked me.”

Bekker said the move from hairdresser to fundraiser has been a huge adjustment but she is enjoying it. “I knew about Gateway Village before I heard about the position and was always very interested in the work they do. Michelle Butterworth was the previous fundraiser and I certainly have very big shoes to fill. My job is to make the community aware of Gateway Village and what we do.”

Bekker has many goals for the organisation. “I am already putting together two events. A market day on 2 November and a barn dance on 23 November.”

“I may be a dreamer. I aim high and might fall down, but I want to make a difference.”