Sioux Falls, SD — Zoie Roghair, known for her warm smile and peaceful spirit, has been a dedicated member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) in South Dakota, since she was five years old. Although she is a young Vincentian, she is an active member in her local conference, and her exceptional commitment to service and her Christ-filled approach to helping others have made her a standout nominee for the 2024 Young Vincentian Excellence Award. Zoie’s ability to inspire others and her unwavering dedication to service embody the true essence of Vincentian values.
Zoie’s journey with SVdP began early, and over the years, she has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for the organization’s mission. Her involvement is extensive: she participates in conference meetings, helps organize events, and has been going on home visits for years. Zoie’s dedication to service is evident in her willingness to take on various tasks with cheerful enthusiasm, embodying the spirit of Vincentian values.
Zoie’s contributions to SVdP are varied and impactful. She assists with entering data into the conference database, ensuring the organization runs smoothly. Zoie has also taken on educational roles, presenting the history of SVdP during Ozanam Orientation and serving as a Spiritual Advisor. Her leadership skills are further demonstrated through her commitment to Servant Leadership, a philosophy she not only understands, but practices daily.
At just 17 years old, Zoie is involved in an adult conference. “There are no other youth in my area, just me and my brother.” Balancing school and other commitments is challenging, but Zoie makes her schedule flexible to attend meetings and events. Zoie expressed her enthusiasm for home visits, valuing the personal connections and spiritual support they offer. She loves going out on visits, and understands how important these encounters are in aiding our brothers and sisters in need, “meeting one-on-one, and meeting them where we are at.”
She shared her experiences and anticipation for an upcoming North Central Regional meeting. She enjoyed attending previous meetings with her mom, learning from older Vincentians and appreciating their stories.
What sets Zoie apart is not just her zeal for service but her commitment to personal growth and learning, all increasing her potential to make an even greater difference in the future. She constantly seeks new ways to contribute and improve, bringing back valuable insights and knowledge to benefit her conference and peers. This dedication to ongoing formation is a testament to her desire to serve God’s people wholeheartedly. Her journey is not just about past achievements but also about the promise of future contributions. As Zoie continues to grow and serve, she stands as a shining example of what it means to live a life dedicated to helping others.