Lifesaving South Africa mourns the passing of Younus Amod, a lifeguard and mentor

LIFESAVING South Africa (LSA) has paid tribute to Younus Amod, an active lifeguard for several decades, a senior and master’s athlete, as well as an administrator, who passed away this week.

On it's Facebook page, LSA thanked Amod for his selfless service and lasting legacy.

"Younus, fondly known as Otis, was a dedicated lifesaver with the former Isipingo Surf Lifesaving Club from the late 1960s through to the early 1980s. When he moved to what was then Port Elizabeth, he joined and served Seagulls SLC and contributed his time in service of the province as well," said LSA in a statement.

"He played a pivotal role in shaping the EP Surf Lifesaving Union (EPSLU) as well as the former SASLU movement. His exemplary leadership and commitment made him one of the key leaders who brokered and negotiated the unification between SASLU and SAL, which ultimately emerged as the Lifesaving South Africa we know today.

"Younus Amod did not stop with his leadership role around the boardroom table. He rolled up his sleeves and spent the necessary time at Lifesaving South Africa head office, dealing with due diligence and other critical processes to ensure that a unified LSA was established on a firm foundation. He continued his commitment to training and mentoring young citizens throughout his professional career as an accountant and auditor, shaping future leaders both in and beyond lifesaving."

Fernando Cain posted: "... Over the years, Younus became more than just a friend; he was a close confidante. He was always sincere and willing to share his life experiences. I fondly remember his annual Ramadan barkat deliveries to my home - he was a spiritual man with a gift for sharing meaningful messages.

"The many training sessions we shared, whether in the pool, at the beach, or on the road, will be dearly missed. As a sportsman, he was always up for a challenge and proved that age is just a number. In his later years, Younus competed in Ironman and many road races. This is who he was: a man who lived by his favourite saying, 'Mind over matter'." 

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