Behind the scenes: A day in the life of a community leader

This series, "A day in the life of a community leader", takes readers inside the daily realities of grassroots leadership – the quiet sacrifices, constant decision-making, emotional labour, and deep commitment required to serve communities.

As of January this year, Southern Mail will speak to community leaders every week to hear about the impact they have in their communities. 

In this week's edition, we speak to Mymoena Scholtz, founder of Where Rainbows Meet Training and Development Foundation, established in 2008. Ms Scholtz knows that community leadership is not confined to office hours. The non-profit organisation serves the Vrygrond and surrounding communities. 

It is a calling that follows her from the breakfast table to the streets she serves, and back home again, she said.

The Grassy Park resident said: "My day starts at 6am with a quiet moment of reflection and prayer. I scan the news and social media to stay updated on community issues, then head to the shower to clear my mind. After a long shower, I enjoy a healthy breakfast with my husband before we head off to work.”

Ms Scholtz said a typical workday begins at 9am.

“I focus on administrative tasks; meet with staff, and plan upcoming events. I am often out in the community, meeting with beneficiaries, attending meetings, and overseeing projects. My day at work usually ends around 5pm, and I arrive home by about 5.30pm, where I prepare dinner and spend time with my family. We talk about our day before heading off to bed,” she said.

Ms Scholtz makes sure she scans social media posts to stay connected to her followers and see to the needs of the community.

“First community-related task: I usually check our WhatsApp groups and emails for urgent requests or updates from the community. It's a great way to stay connected and respond promptly to needs,” she said.

Balancing the demands of administration with hands-on community engagement is a constant challenge for grassroots leaders, requiring careful planning, trust in teamwork, and clear priorities, she said. “I've learned to prioritise and delegate tasks. My team is amazing, and we support each other. I allocate specific days for admin work and others for community engagement.”

Ms Scholtz faces significant challenges in her work, from limited funding to competing priorities.

“ I navigate them by staying focused on our mission, building strong partnerships, and being adaptable,” she said.

Amid the challenges and long hours, moments of gratitude and tangible impact keep Ms Scholtz motivated and remind her why she dedicates herself to community service.

"When I see the impact of our work, no matter how small, it reminds me why I'm doing this. Recently, one of our beneficiaries personally sent a thank-you note for helping her with Christmas gifts and food. It was something small we did, but the impact – it was priceless.”

To sustain her energy and commitment, Ms Scholtz emphasises the importance of self-care and a strong support network.

“For me, self-care is key. I make time for family, exercise, and hobbies. I also have a great support network of friends, acquaintances, and mentors,” said Ms Scoltz.

Central to her work, Ms Scholtz highlights the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships across all levels of the community.

"These relationships are crucial to our success.”

Beyond her visible work in the community, Ms Scholtz dedicates time to behind-the-scenes efforts that have a lasting impact. “I often spend time building relationships with local businesses and stakeholders. These connections lead to opportunities and resources that benefit the community.”

When unexpected crises arise, Ms Scholtz says she shifts gears, prioritising immediate support and rapid response to those in need. "Our team rallies, and we mobilise resources quickly,” said Ms Scholtz.

For Ms Scholtz, the true reward of community work comes not from recognition but from the meaningful impact she sees in the lives of those she serves. “Seeing positive change, no matter how small, gives me peace. Knowing we've made a difference in someone's life is the best reward.

“As a community worker, it's not just about the work; it's about the people. Building trust, listening, and being present are just as important as the tasks at hand. Serving others is the best feeling and gives one everlasting peace,” said Ms Scholtz.

For more information about how to become a community leader or how to assist the organisation as a volunteer, or if you want to donate to the organisation, contact Ms Scholtz at 073 261 8864.