Special award ceremony honours Joel Greek for winning international competition

The Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Adv. Albert Fritz, addressed a packed hall at the Athlone School for the Blind, at a special award ceremony held in honour of learner, Joel Greek (12).

Joel, who hails from Kuilsriver, is a Grade 7 learner at the school, and is the winner of a global essay competition hosted by the Lions Clubs International and United Nations (UN). His winning essay on “Shared Peace” was chosen from contestants from over 100 countries that form part of the Lions Clubs International network.

The award ceremony was organized by the school’s principal, Mr. Fletcher Fisher, and Minister Fritz was joined by Ms. Sue Charles, the District Governor of Lions Clubs, and Ms. Inga Greek, Joel’s mother.

Joel has returned from a trip to New York at the UN Headquaters, where the official prize-giving ceremony was held. In congratulating Joel, Minister Fritz said, “As the department we will continue to support and empower our young people, especially youth living with disabilities. We want them to use their opportunities, pursue their happiness, and prosper”.

The Western Cape Department of Social Development congratulates Joel on his achievement, which serves as an example of how people living with disabilities can transcend all barriers if they are afforded support and an enabling environment.