Nominations invited for Simonsvlei SA achievers

Brand Manager for Simonsvlei, Dawie Malherbe, says that the project – the first of its kind for the wine industry – was born out of a desire to promote the positive aspects of South Africa and its people.

“Our country has some of the most talented individuals in the world, and they are not always recognised for their outstanding achievements. It is Simonsvlei's objective to celebrate the winning spirit and ‘never-say-die' attitude of 101 South African achievers on an annual basis. We also want to create awareness and raise funds for designated charities, including the Simonsvlei non-profit environmental and social programmes, Simonsvlei Wetlands Trust and Sima Kunye (with Family Reunion Centre as main beneficiary).

“Simonsvlei therefore invites all members of the public to nominate the people who make us proud to be South Africans. We are looking for achievers who have made a positive contribution, big or small, to make South Africa a better place to live in,” he says.

Goal oriented

Malherbe explains that an achiever is someone who knows how to develop him or herself in order to become the best they can be (as self-actualised individuals with altruistic motives), and they are often well-liked and successful in whatever field they choose. “But while outward success is certainly appreciated, this is not necessarily their main aim. Their definition of success is no longer influenced by their culture, or their peer group, but rather to be goal-orientated individuals.”

Ten categories for nominations in the Simonsvlei Achiever of the Year Awards 2007 have been identified, namely Culture, Conservation, Community Service, Sport (including physically disabled athletes), Entrepreneurship, Research, Agriculture, Adventure, Journalism, and Posthumous Recognition.

Nominations can be made online at www.simonsvlei.com. The competition will also be promoted via an email, SMS and print campaign. Furthermore, entry forms can also be obtained at participating dealers and restaurants as necktags on a selection of Simonsvlei wines.

Those who nominate outstanding South Africans for the project also stand a chance to win a variety of prizes, including an exotic 10-day holiday for two in Madagascar, one of 101 Simonsvlei gift packs, cash prizes and more. Winners will be notified via email or sms within 14 days after the closing date.

The closing date for nominations is the 30th of September 2007.

The Simonsvlei Achiever of the Year Awards 2007 will honour the 101 achievers and award the 10 category winners at a gala evening taking place on the 3rd of November at Simonsvlei wine cellar (with amongst others, the prestigious Paragon trophies). The overall achiever of the year will also be announced at the event. For more information, visit: www.simonsvlei.com.