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My sincere thanks to the Council and all members for the nomination as President, which I have duly accepted. This was not an easy decision, and I only agreed to stand after several clubs approached me with compelling reasons. Today, I feel honored by the trust the majority of members have placed in me, and I aim to earn the confidence of every member over time.
For those unfamiliar with my background, I have been part of the executive structure for many years, serving as National Breed Supervisor. I qualified as a Breed Judge in 2006, became a Senior Judge in 2009, and earned the title of Breed Surveyor in 2012. My journey with German Shepherds spans over 25 years. On a personal note, I hold a B.Com (Hons) degree and completed an Executive Management Program from the University of Stellenbosch. Prior to returning to teaching, which I thought would be a “retirement job”, I filled senior management positions at various automotive companies. Together with my family, I run a small kennel, "Von Ronneburg", which was registered in 1999. We were honored with the Double Diamond breeder’s medal in 2023. Our kennel holds the record for breeding the most VA dogs (17) in South Africa and has won the Best Kennel Group award at the South African Nationals 13 times in the last 18 years. I also enjoy the training aspect of the sport, having titled dogs with Schutzhund (IPO) qualifications. This organization is about so much more than just dogs. It’s about the friendships, knowledge, and the shared love we have for our companions. Whether we come together for fun events, support training efforts, or to exchange tips and stories. As President, my goal is to foster this spirit of camaraderie and enthusiasm. I want to ensure our events remain enjoyable and meaningful for both new and long-standing members. Educational programs and activities that celebrate the special bond we share with our dogs will be part of our focus. The objectives in my manifesto are clear:
I am committed to hearing from all of you because this federation belongs to us all. I welcome your ideas, feedback, and vision for building an even stronger organization. Together, we can create a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive space where every member—whether two-legged or fourlegged—feels welcomed and appreciated. I would also like to express my gratitude to the outgoing President, Mr. Frikkie van Kraayenburg, for his commitment to our organization, particularly in strengthening international relationships. The new executive team look forward to working with all of you and achieving great things together. Sincerely, CHRIS THOMPSON President |
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