Renald Morris, was a cherished member of Synergos South Africa, whose life and work left an indelible mark on our community. Renald was a beacon of hope and a passionate advocate for social connectedness, dedicating his life to building bridges of understanding and compassion across diverse communities. Renald passed away from bronchopneumonia complications, on 09 May 2024.
Renald, through all his work and academic journey, always centred the care, love and safety for children. Renald lead the Synergos Leadership and Innovation Network for Collaboration in the Children’s Sector Fellowship (LINC), a cross-sector initiative to improve the effectiveness of systemic responses to vulnerable children in South Africa. Renald played a key role in bringing the Social Connectedness research and programming to the LINC fellows. He co-designed and co-facilitated Social Connectedness programming and workshops with diverse partners, over a 10 year journey in this work. In some spaces he was even called the ’pastor of social connectedness’. Through his bridging leadership work, he loved facilitating activities that helped leaders to connect to their highest purpose, and advocated for building policy, research, programme design and practice on social connectedness and belonging, for all, especially vulnerable children, youth and families.
Renald’s journey with Synergos was not just a career, but a calling. He believed deeply in the power of human connection to transform lives and society. Through his work, he tirelessly championed initiatives that brought people together, fostering dialogue and collaboration in spaces where division and isolation often prevailed. His commitment to creating a more inclusive and empathetic world was evident in every project he undertook, and his impact was felt far and wide.
Renald’s warmth, wisdom, humour (he loved telling jokes), wit, and unwavering belief in the goodness of humanity made him a beloved figure among colleagues, partners, and the countless individuals he touched. He had an extraordinary ability to see the potential in everyone and to inspire them to work towards a common good. Whether through working on partnership building and wellbeing processes for leaders, social connectedness and community-building workshops, thought-provoking discussions, or his quiet acts of kindness, Renald’s legacy of connection and understanding will continue to inspire us all. Renald modelled connectedness in his daily life, and has made friends, kept local and global relationships, and impacted lives, in many ways.
As we remember Renald, we celebrate his life and the lasting influence of his work. His vision for a world where everyone feels connected, seen, heard, and valued lives on in the hearts of those who knew him. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will continue to guide us as we strive to build a more connected and compassionate society.
Rest in peace, Renald.
