As in many other places over the years, there have been challenges within Africa’s National Red Cross Red Crescent Societies where gender becomes a hinderance and politics becomes the order of business instead of the work of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality being the norm.

During Connie’s presidency, she introduced proper and good governance, a diverse board, produced annual reports, introduced a volunteer app, increased donor funding, created dialogue between stakeholders, led a strategic vision for the society and increased volunteers. She also enhanced the visibility and media coverage for and about the work of SARCS within the Southern Africa region and globally.

Connie’s constant contribution within the Glow Red even when she is no longer in a leadership position is also inspiring. Glow Red can effect change by engaging National Societies and regional IFRC offices by ensuring that National Societies respect the ethos of the Movement, laws of their respective countries, and educating them about Glow Red, and moreover having a woman President of the IFRC which goes to show the importance of empowerment, diversity, and inclusivity.

Connie’s dreams of the South African Red Cross is that it is vibrant and takes its' rightful space among other well-managed National Societies. She envisions the SARCS that participates meaningfully in the socio-economic stimulation of the poor and vulnerable communities, especially in the rural communities of South Africa. Moreover, she dreams of overcoming the challenges that the world faces, especially such issues as climate change, women (particularly in war torn countries) and children who are the most negatively affected. Connie would like to see a Movement that is more agile and responsive to the digital technology and adapts to the changing times.