BKCOB bids farewell to Komani’s ‘go-to girl’
Adre Bartis lauded for tireless efforts, service to community
The Border-Kei Chamber of Business (BKCOB) bade farewell to its Komani branch administrator Adre Bartis on Wednesday evening.
She is moving to Gqeberha to embark on a new career path as a lawyer.
Bartis, after 11 years of service to the chamber in Komani, handed over her responsibilities to her replacement Marisca Burmeister.
Bartis recently completed her LLB degree and is moving back to do her articles with an attorney firm, and is set to wed Algoa FM programme manager Mio Khondleka in June.
BKCOB chairperson Mark Wilson, who worked closely with Bartis, told the farewell gathering that Bartis had shown selfless dedication over the 11 years.
Bartis began as a committee member in 2013, serving in this role until 2016 when she was appointed BKCOB’s Komani administrator.
She worked with multiple chairpersons, including Andre Naude, Mark Wilson, Lisle Clark, and Jacques van Zyl.
Wilson said Bartis had generated an extensive knowledge of her area which significantly contributed to the chamber’s success.
“Bartis is a real social butterfly and was involved in, and spearheaded many projects at the chamber. Some of the projects include the SMME project, the adopt-a-school project which she was very passionate about.
“She was instrumental in getting the MEC of education Fundile Gade to speed up the upgrading of the Louis Rex School, which had been stalled for years.”
Wilson said that during the Covid19 pandemic, Bartis was tasked with issuing permits on behalf of the chamber to exempt business people from movement restrictions.
Bartis also arranged and coordinated virtual races, with the proceeds going to the SPCA.
“Many of you will remember the tireless work she put in during the times of crisis in Komani, keeping everyone updated about what was happening.
“Adre became the ‘go-to girl’ for us all when we had queries with the municipality regarding service delivery issues.
“She had a knack of getting things done with staff at the municipality.”
Van Zyl extended his deepest gratitude to Bartis for her unwavering dedication and service, observing that her commitment to excellence and tireless efforts had left an enduring impact on the local business community and the lives of those around her.
Her spirit had motivated the chamber to reach new heights.
He praised her dedication to nurturing growth in the community.
“Although you will be dearly missed, your legacy of service and leadership will continue to inspire us for years to come.
“Thank you Adre for your invaluable contributions and for being an exemplary member of our community,” the chairperson said.
He said networking was about forging strong relationships with partners in the public sector and the community.
“That’s why we continue to work closely with our officials from the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality and the Chris Hani District Municipality and community.
“By fostering a productive working relationship between the private and public sectors and our community, we can create a more vibrant, prosperous, and inclusive business environment for everyone.”
Van Zyl said the chamber was thrilled to have Burmeister on board as the new branch administrator.
“I have no doubt that you will bring fresh ideas, energy, and enthusiasm to our chamber.
“As you embark on this new journey, know that you have the full support of your chamber family behind you.
“We’re here to cheer you on, to offer guidance and advice, and to celebrate your successes every step of the way.”