The Order of the Baobab in Silver

Douglas John Anderson Awarded for:

His excellent contribution to the upliftment of the lives of people with disabilities and impoverished children.

Profile of Douglas John Anderson

Douglas John Anderson was born in Welkom. He was given a slim chance of survival at birth. Although the odds were stacked against him he survived and went on to dedicate his life to improving the lives of people with disabilities and impoverished children. In 2011 Anderson set up a social network called The Making A Difference Network, whereby individuals and various charities could interact and charities could benefit financially. Anderson has also been at the forefront of bringing relief to communities that have been devastated by natural disasters.

Some of the events that Anderson initiated for the benefit of South Africans with disabilities included the fundraising function called the Differently Able 24/7/365 to help children with disabilities. This activity and many similar ones that Anderson has spearheaded demonstrate his determination to help the unfortunate overcome challenges borne out of their conditions.

His philanthropic work has gone beyond only helping people with disabilities. Anderson has also participated in charity drives aimed at benefiting the orphaned, a section of society which often finds daily survival nearly impossible. Anderson has worked hard to lobby for stadiums to adapt their buildings to become accessible to wheelchair users. A man of action, Anderson continues to work for the betterment of South African society and the world at large.