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Red carpet glam: Fikile Mbalula gala dinner
| DATE: 29 June 2012 |
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| BY: Bernice Maune |
Fikile Mbalula hosted an exclusive gala dinner where top local celebs, sports stars, politicians and US stars were spotted.
Minister of Sport Fikile Mbalula officially launched his woman's foundation during a gala dinner at the Sandton Sun, Johannesburg.
The glamorous event took place last night and saw celebrities, entertainers, sports stars, politicians and businessmen descend upon the hotel for an evening in aid of charity. Mbalula said he came up with the idea of launching a foundation last year. He said he was inspired by how he assisted his nieces as they were struggling with the transition into womanhood and became determined to help those who did not have support in the form of family.
With DJ Tbo'Touch as the MC, the event got off to a smooth start. US actress Regina Hall said she was honoured to be a part of the foundation launch. "I am so excited to be here and to be given the pleasure and opportunity to come to South Africa. I arrived yesterday and went to a school this morning where we handed over a cheque. I can see the value that this foundation will bring to South Africa," she said.
Hall was joined by US actresses Kimberly Elise and Sanaa Lathan and models Selita Ebanks and Chrissy Teigen. All expressed their committment to Mbalula's foundation. An auction was held to raise funds, with over R500 000 being raised through pledges.
Local celebrities Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Baby Jake Matlatla, Joost van der Westhuizen, Tony Yengeni, Julius Malema, Thandi Sibisi and more expressed their support for the foundation.
During his speech Mbalula said he wanted his foundation to instill confidence in young women and offer them the opportunity to change their circumstances. "When a young girl falls pregnant she usually has little chance of finishing school. It's easier for boys because they can carry on with their school work. We are focusing on girls because we want to break the cycle of poverty and ensure young women realise their dreams. We will only help those who want to be helped and through excellence they can achieve," he said.
Five students were awarded four-year bursaries to continue with their education. Additionally, the foundation will offer scholarships, mentorship opportunities and exchange programmes to girls across the country.
