The relentless effort of a Merebank social activist, Premilla Deonath to uplift her community through social programmes has finally paid dividends after being conferred with Unsung Heroes Award.

Founded by the former eThekwini deputy mayor Fawzia Peer three years ago, the awards shine a light on those remarkable individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to uplift their communities. These are the people who offer their time, energy, and hearts without expecting praise, driven purely by compassion, integrity, and a desire to help others. This award celebrates the quiet champions of kindness and service, whose everyday actions spark real change and leave a lasting impact, often without fanfare or spotlight.

Speaking after receiving the award, Deonath said she was genuinely humbled to receive the Unsung Heroes Award and never expected. She said she never expected anything for helping her community, which she did out of passion and a sense of responsibility to the people around her.

“Standing there, receiving the medal, seeing the beautiful frame and reading my name in the Unsung Heroes book, I felt an unexpected wave of emotion.  Partly joy, but mostly gratitude.

“I was both honoured and deeply humbled to receive the Unsung Heroes Award. It’s not something I ever expected, because the work I do is simply part of who I am.  Done quietly, without seeking recognition. Receiving the medal, the certificate, and being included in the Unsung Heroes book was incredibly moving, but what touched me most was being recognized alongside so many others who give of themselves every day without asking for anything in return,” said Deonath.

She further stated that her recognition belongs to everyone who walks the path of service.  Those who show up without applause, who give their time and heart simply because they care.

“I’m thankful beyond words to those who saw value in what I do and took the time to nominate me. This moment will stay with me always, not because of the award itself, but because it affirmed that quiet efforts do matter,” concludes Deonath.

Merebank is a predominantly Indian community, less than five kilometres from central Durban towards the south of the City. Deonath has been a voice and a torchbearer for the community. Through her Merewest Community Foundation which she founded with other local community activists she has organised various social projects which were beneficial to her community.

willem.phungula@inl.co.za

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