Brackenfell activist wins two prestigious Lions awards

A Brackenfell activist has been recognised for her hard work by Lions Clubs International.

Mandy Leibbrandt, director of  Apple Tree Initiatives, a non-profit company that runs a food gardening project at the Suikerbossie Park in Brackenfell to feed those in need, received the Louis Volks Humanitarian Award and was named International Citizen of the Year.

Former president of the Lions Clubs International, Joe Preston, conferred the two prestigious awards on Ms Leibbrandt at a ceremony held in the Breede River Valley on Saturday May 3.

Angelique Brümmer, the president of the Lions Club of Brackenfell, said Ms Leibbrandt beat finalists from Mexico to win the International Citizen of the Year award.

Ms Leibbrandt said she accepted the award on behalf of all those who shared the vision of a healthy earth and a healing humanity.

“This moment is not just about me. It reflects every seed planted and every future seed yet to germinate, every harvest gathered and those still to come, every tree watered, and every soul who has helped along the way, reminded of their divine worth,” she said.

The motivation statement said Ms Leibbrandt was recognised for:

- Uniting 50 gardeners from diverse backgrounds;

- Establishing 40 vegetable patches and planting 480 fruit trees;

- Providing over 1 100 food and fresh produce parcels monthly to 40 to 45 homes; and

- Inspiring positive change in Protea Village, Kraaifontein, and surrounding communities

“The project's success translated to approximately R490 000 worth of support to families in need, calculated at R15/kg and 30kg per donation. Mandy and the gardeners' dedication embodied the spirit of Lions International, making a tangible difference in their community,” Ms Brümmer said.