90-Year-Old Woman Fights HIV/AIDS in Africa for 20 Years

When Elizabeth Rennie asked Stephen Lewis what she could do to help fight HIV/AIDS in Africa, she never imagined the answer would define the next 20 years of her life.

In 2006, Elizabeth founded the Burlington Ubuntu Grandwomen group after hearing Lewis speak about the devastating AIDS crisis affecting African communities. His response to her question was simple: start a grandmothers group.

"When I heard Stephen Lewis speak, with his electrifying eloquence and his piercing compassion, I knew I had to do something more than stand up and clap," Elizabeth said. She took his advice and ran with it.

For nearly two decades, her group has raised funds and awareness for grassroots organizations across Eastern and Southern Africa. These organizations support women and children affected by HIV/AIDS, gender-based violence, and inequality.

The work has connected Burlington residents to a global cause, proving that local action can create international impact. Elizabeth's leadership has shown her community that distance doesn't diminish responsibility.

The Ripple Effect

At 90 years old, Elizabeth shows no signs of slowing down. She remains actively involved with Burlington Baptist Church and other community organizations, always seeking new ways to support those in need.

Her philosophy centers on the African concept of Ubuntu, which means "I am because we are." Elizabeth credits her success to the collective power of her group rather than individual achievement.

"We work together," she explained. "It's the most wonderful group of women with whom to work because they're creative, encouraging and inspiring."

The community recognized her extraordinary dedication with a Random Act of Kindness award. BurlingtonToday surprised her with flowers, a $200 donation to the Stephen Lewis Foundation in her name, and a food basket for the local food bank.

Elizabeth's reaction to the recognition was characteristically humble. "I kept saying to people, 'We're doing this together,'" she said.

One woman heard a call to action and answered it with two decades of service that has touched countless lives across two continents.