PROBUS
SOUTH AFRICA
Probus, an acronym of PROfessional and BUSiness, originally targeted retired friends with professional and business backgrounds, is also the Latin word meaning upright, honest, virtuous and moral. Despite the original focus on members with professional and business backgrounds, there are today no special qualifications for membership other than that you must be proposed and seconded by current club members.
the history of probus in south africa
The clubs spring from two main roots, the Campus Club founded by the Rotary Club of Welwyn Garden City and the Probus Club of Caterham founded by the Caterham Rotary Club in the UK in 1965 and 1966, respectively.
Since then, Probus has spread worldwide and clubs continue to be established at a rapidly increasing rate. We are part of Probus Global with clubs around the world: www.probusglobal.org
In South Africa, the first Probus Club was established in 1977 in Durban and has since expanded to many other regions of the country. South Africa currently has 55 clubs with about 2,200 members.
Since then, Probus has spread worldwide and clubs continue to be established at a rapidly increasing rate. We are part of Probus Global with clubs around the world: www.probusglobal.org
In South Africa, the first Probus Club was established in 1977 in Durban and has since expanded to many other regions of the country. South Africa currently has 55 clubs with about 2,200 members.
PROBUS
Probus is a vibrant association of retired and semi-retired people who come together to foster friendship, intellectual engagement, and community spirit. Rooted in the values of fun, friendship and fellowship, Probus offers members a welcoming space to stay socially active, mentally stimulated, and meaningfully connected.
Founded in the United Kingdom in the 1960s, Probus has grown into a global movement with thousands of clubs worldwide. Each club is autonomous, shaped by the interests and energy of its members, yet united by a shared commitment to enriching life after work.
We believe retirement is not an end, but a new beginning — a time to explore passions, contribute wisdom, and enjoy life in good company.
Founded in the United Kingdom in the 1960s, Probus has grown into a global movement with thousands of clubs worldwide. Each club is autonomous, shaped by the interests and energy of its members, yet united by a shared commitment to enriching life after work.
We believe retirement is not an end, but a new beginning — a time to explore passions, contribute wisdom, and enjoy life in good company.
the values of probus are fun, friendship and fellowship
Who We Are
Probus members come from diverse backgrounds. What unites us is a desire to remain active, engaged, and purposeful. Our clubs welcome individuals who value connection, conversation, and contribution — without the obligations of fundraising or politics. In South Africa, Probus clubs reflect the richness of our local communities while embracing the global spirit of the movement. Whether you're interested in history, travel, gardening, economics, or simply good conversation, there's a place for you in Probus.
What We Do
Each club organises a variety of activities tailored to its members:
~ Monthly meetings with guest speakers
~ Social events and outings
~ Cultural and educational programs
~ Digital initiatives to enhance accessibility and engagement
Probus South Africa is committed to modernisation and inclusivity. We embrace technology to connect members, share resources, and build a stronger, more vibrant network.
~ Monthly meetings with guest speakers
~ Social events and outings
~ Cultural and educational programs
~ Digital initiatives to enhance accessibility and engagement
Probus South Africa is committed to modernisation and inclusivity. We embrace technology to connect members, share resources, and build a stronger, more vibrant network.
Why Join PROBUS?
~ Stay socially and intellectually active
~ Make new friends and rekindle old ones
~ Share your experience and learn from others
~ Enjoy a sense of belonging and purpose
Probus is where fellowship meets fulfilment. Join us and celebrate life after work — with meaning, laughter, and shared purpose.
~ Make new friends and rekindle old ones
~ Share your experience and learn from others
~ Enjoy a sense of belonging and purpose
Probus is where fellowship meets fulfilment. Join us and celebrate life after work — with meaning, laughter, and shared purpose.
ADMINISTRATION
To preserve the integrity and reputation of these autonomous clubs, they adhere to the suggested club constitution and bylaws. This has proven to be a very successful basis for serving the needs of retired people in many countries where the Probus movement is now flourishing.
The Probus South Africa website supports clubs by advising individual clubs, fostering a strong sense of community among them, and maintaining an up-to-date national directory of Probus Clubs in South Africa.
The Probus South Africa website supports clubs by advising individual clubs, fostering a strong sense of community among them, and maintaining an up-to-date national directory of Probus Clubs in South Africa.