It is an incredible honour and deeply personal privilege for me, as President of SANA, to present this year’s President’s Award to two people who have had an immeasurable impact on my life and career, my parents Ronnie and Rika Hecker.
For as long as I can remember, they have lived and breathed this industry. Through hard work, determination, sacrifice, and an unwavering passion for growing, they built more than just a business. They built a legacy founded on excellence, integrity, and a genuine love for people and plants alike.
I was incredibly privileged to grow up surrounded by nature, from the nursery aisles to the bushveld, and those experiences shaped who I am today. The values my parents instilled in me from a young age became the compass that continues to guide my life, both personally and professionally.
My mother, Rika, taught me to always help where you can, to treat people with kindness, and to appreciate nature in all its forms. She showed me that compassion and generosity are just as important as success, and that true fulfilment comes from giving back and caring for the world around us.
My Mom was truly a people person. Customers would light up when they saw her friendly smile and received one of her warm hugs. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome, valued, and part of the family. Although she is no longer with us today, her spirit continues to live on through the countless lives she touched, the values she instilled in us, and the warmth that still surrounds our business and family.
My father, Ronnie, helped develop my love for growing plants, from perfectly spaced rows of plants, meticulous planning, and a nursery without weeds. Through his example, he taught me discipline, pride in your work, and attention to detail and that there is always more to learn. More importantly, he taught me the value of staying calm under pressure and thinking every problem through carefully before reacting.
My Father, on the other hand, has always preferred plants to people, which is probably why he is not here tonight. But in all seriousness, I want to sincerely thank him for holding the fort during my presidency, for his unwavering support, and for always being there when it mattered most.
Without the foundation they gave me, I would not be standing here today. Everything I have achieved has been built on the lessons, support, and example they provided throughout my life.
What makes their contribution truly special is not only what they have achieved, but how they have achieved it, with humility, generosity, and heart.
It is with immense pride, gratitude, and love that I present the SANA President’s Award to Ronnie and Rika Hecker.