BNI Success Chapter celebrates 20 years of showing up.
- Oct 27
- 4 min read
Twenty years ago, one of the BNI chapters was established in Nelson Mandela Bay and this weekend, members came together to celebrate this remarkable milestone alongside their fellow chapter members. BNI Success PE, led by President John Rankin, now boasts over 30 members who see each other not just as business partners, but as family.
President John Rankin shared that the evening was about celebrating “20 incredible years of businesses coming together, showing up for each other, supporting one another - with the mantra, “not what can I get, but how can I help you?”.
“We are incredibly proud to have reached this 20-year milestone. No other BNI chapter in the Eastern Cape has done so, we’re the first! This group is passionate, dedicated, and genuinely cares for one another. Over the past 20 years, we’ve generated more than R80 million worth of business referrals for each other. That’s the result of members being proactive, seeking opportunities, and opening doors for one another. Just this year alone, we’ve exceeded R20 million in the last 12 months, proof that we’re only getting stronger, bigger, and better. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for this incredible chapter,” added John.
The evening, made possible by various sponsors from the BNI network, was filled with both long-standing and new members. Among the newcomers was Candice Jenneker from Brylin Independent Learning Centre, who shared her journey, “I officially joined BNI on the 1st of October after visiting a few chapters. My manager, who is already a BNI member at another group and owns a salon, understood the benefits of BNI. At first, I wasn’t completely sold, simply because I didn’t know enough about it. But personally, BNI has helped me grow. I used to be uncomfortable speaking in front of people or selling myself, but now I can confidently talk about who I am, what I do, and how my organization adds value. It teaches you to present yourself in a way that makes others want to refer you. It’s been a short journey so far, but honestly - wow! That’s the only word that captures it.”
Among the guests was Butch Coetzee, BNI Eastern Cape Regional Director, who said, “Tonight, we spark a milestone. We ignite a flame of gratitude, reflection, and endless possibility. On this momentous day, October 24th, we celebrate 20 extraordinary years since the launch of BNI Success in the Nelson Mandela Bay region.”
He went on to highlight the chapter’s achievements – such as the passing of 11,767 referrals, the extended invitations to 1,702 visitors and more. “Friends, these achievements aren’t accidents. They are the fruits of resilience, the echoes of Nelson Mandela himself, whose legacy we carry here in the region that bears his name. A man who taught us perseverance, compassion, and the power of uplifting others despite adversity.”
He then recalled a memorable story from his early years, “During the tough 2008 recession, a graphic designer in our group faced closure. In a one-to-one, he shared his struggles openly. That vulnerability led to a chain of referrals, a website developed, a marketer connected to a corporate client and today, that same designer runs a flourishing agency employing dozens and mentoring newcomers in our chapter.”
Looking toward the future, Philip Dunn, BNI SA National Director, spoke confidently about new developments and the exciting direction BNI is headed, “Our goal is to reach 10,000 members in South Africa. With our current membership sitting at more than 2,800, we’re aiming for a BNI chapter in every city. Even more exciting, starting next year, BNI South Africa will be one of the first countries in the world to roll out BNI Pay.”
The evening was not only about celebrating the chapter’s success but also marked a special birthday for Aubrey Liphokojoe, one of the proud members of BNI Success.
“I’ll be celebrating six years in the chapter this coming 1st of December. Tonight, has been truly incredible, witnessing how BNI Success has grown over the past 20 years and being part of this milestone celebration is an absolute honour. For me personally, receiving the Millionaire Legacy Award was both humbling and inspiring. It reflects the effort and dedication I’ve put in over the years and motivates me to aim even higher. From here on, I’m determined to reach the next set of goals I’ve set for myself. It’s truly been a brilliant and memorable night.”
The night would have been incomplete without celebrating one another. Small gift awards, sponsored by BNI members through their organizations, were shared in an informal and festive manner. That moment perfectly captured what BNI Success is all about, cheering for each other, fostering unity, and showing genuine care and support.
To close off the evening, President John Rankin left everyone inspired with his final words, “I believe the next 20 years will be a different kind of success. Generosity, kindness, and grit will carry us forward.”
For more about BNI Success PE, contact: Anirle De Meyer - anirle@pagdens.co.za
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