SOS Dinner raises funds for SA’s live events industry

South Africa:

The South African live events industry has raised R359,850 for the SOS charity, following its third fundraising dinner and auction at The Venue, Melrose Arch, Johannesburg, on 1 July.

Held during Mediatech, the event brought together international suppliers, rental companies, system integrators and industry professionals to raise funds for SOS, which was established a decade ago to support members of the live events industry facing unexpected hardship through illness, injury, loss or other unforeseen circumstances.

Founded by DWR Distribution’s Duncan Riley, SOS has supported numerous individuals and families across the entertainment industry over the past 10 years, including freelancers through its work with #FeedOurCrew during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The fund has also recently provided medical assistance to Gerda Kruger following the death of her husband, Philip. Kruger addressed guests at the dinner, alongside Itumeleng Motswaledi, who spoke about the support SOS has provided to her family since her husband, audio engineer Mpumelelo Daikile, was killed in a taxi-related crossfire in December 2021. SOS continues to support their daughter with education and related costs until she completes school.

Entertainment on the evening came from Dr Victor, DJ Luis Almeida and comedian and performer Aaron McIlroy, who also hosted the auction. Guests also heard from Ian Staddon of DiGiCo, whose encouragement helped bring the SOS fundraising dinner concept to South Africa.

“We are incredibly thankful to Tony Raciti and Trudie de Kock for hosting us at The Venue once again and for their ongoing generosity that makes this event possible,” said Riley. “The success of this year's dinner demonstrates the remarkable spirit of our industry and its willingness to support those in need. Every contribution helps ensure that assistance is available when one of our own needs it most.

“I would also like to say thank you to the industry, who were so generous in purchasing seats and participating in the auction to raise the funds we did. Without the industry’s support, there would be no SOS, and we would not be in a position to assist anyone. We were totally overwhelmed by the support we received.”