Naadir Agherdien remembered

The community is mourning the loss of Naadir Agherdien, a deeply respected figure whose life was marked by service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to upliftment, whether in professional circles, sport, or community development.

- ROSHAN ABRAHAMS ROSHAN.ABRAHAMS@ ACM.CO.ZA

Mr Agherdien died at the age of 61 and his janaazah was at his home in Wynberg, on Tuesday June 24.

Born in Port Elizabeth, Mr Agherdien moved to Cape Town during his teenage years and grew up in the Fairways area.

From a young age, he displayed an exceptional drive to contribute meaningfully to society. Over the decades, he made his mark as a pioneering IT professional, sports administrator, and a pillar of strength in numerous community initiatives.

He spent many years at Sanlam, where he worked in IT operations, overseeing operating systems, before retiring early due to medical reasons.

However, retirement never meant slowing down for Mr Agherdien. Even from home, he continued to lend his expertise to organisations and sports clubs, helping them with strategic planning, governance, and constitutional development.

His mind remained sharp, his passion intact, said his son Dehraan Agherdien.

Mr Agherdien junior said his dad's ability to revive struggling clubs and organisations became a defining trait.

His leadership turned challenges into success stories, earning him the respect of peers across the country.

"His approach was hands-on, strategic, and always value-driven," said Mr Agherdien junior.

As a father, he was known for his warmth, wisdom, and support. His children remember him as a man who encouraged service, community involvement, and excellence in everything they did.

"He took the most pride when we gave back to society, continuing his legacy of generosity.

There will always be two types of people in the world - givers and takers.

My father was always a giver," said Mr Agherdien junior.

Those who worked with him recall his high standards, meticulous planning, and generosity of spirit.