Investec Sponsors ‘Rhythm Of Africa’ In Aid Of Hospice
Investec Sponsors ‘Rhythm Of Africa’ In Aid Of Hospice. As the title sponsor of this Symphonic Afro-Pop event, Investec is helping to raise the profile of the arts, provide expression for local music, and raise funds for St Francis Hospice.
The Eastern Cape is very much a region where South Africa’s rhythms beat intensely, so it is no surprise that this year’s fundraising event for St Francis Hospice in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) will focus on the ‘Rhythm of Africa’ – a symphonic Afro-Pop event that will fuse past and present local music into an orchestral extravagance, presented by the 70 instrumentalists of the Eastern Cape Philharmonic Orchestra and conducted by the legendary Richard Cock.
“The concept of the ‘Rhythm of Africa’ is something that genuinely resonates with us, as – much like our approach to business – it will offer the audience a distinctive experience,” says Edgar Quinton, Investec head of Private Banking, Eastern & Southern Cape. “Add to this, the funds raised will benefit Hospice, which means the event is not only an expression of African cultural diversity, but also of the spirit of Ubuntu.”
St Francis Hospice undertakes this type of fund-raising event every year, raising both funds for, and awareness of, Hospice. Melanie Manson, fundraising consultant for St Francis Hospice, points out that the organisation is thrilled to have a sponsor like Investec on board, supporting such a worthy cause. “Our annual production, held in memory of the late Philipp Rowland Gutsche, is a critical calendar event for us and this year, we are going over and above with the ‘Rhythm of Africa’ and so we are incredibly grateful to have an entity of Investec’s calibre on board, and to be able to continue to contribute positively to the culture and entertainment of the city,” she says.
Apart from the philharmonic orchestra, Manson indicates that top performers including the likes of Judith Sephuma, Loyiso Bala, Tim Moloi and Monde Msutwana will also guest star. In addition, there will be performances of famous local songs from Brenda Fassie, Johnny Clegg, Vusi Mahlasela, Bright Blue, Mango Groove, and Joy, along with a tribute to the late Tina Turner, and an additional extra surprise for the audience.
Hospice cares for approximately 250 terminally ill patients monthly, the majority of whom are destitute. Fundraisers of this nature go a long way towards assisting to pay for the highly professional nurses who provide such vital services to both patients and their families in the community. All funds raised from this concert will go to St Francis Hospice, with the concert expected to play to a full house.
“Investec strives to have a lasting positive impact on the communities where we operate and we recognise the power of partnerships. We believe that truly great things can happen when we work together and we are pleased to sponsor such an important arts and culture project that is set to deliver an extraordinary experience, while at the same time, raising much-needed funds for the community,” concludes Jeremy Baxter head of Investec Wealth & Investment, Eastern & Southern Cape.
