On the evening of Saturday, 1 March 2025, the Grove Schoombee Foundation hosted its Annual Auction Gala at the prestigious Pretoria Country Club, bringing together approximately 200 guests from across South Africa to support children in need. The event raised an impressive R1.5 million, which will directly fund critical initiatives aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable children.
The gala was a celebration of generosity and elegance, featuring a five-course wine-pairing dinner that delighted attendees. Guests were entertained by live performances from the Gracenote Music, Marinda Gerber Acrobatic and Contortion Dance Studio, Twisted Cirque fire jugglers, and a stunning solo violin performance by Reuben van Nieuwenhuizen from Pretoria Boys High School.
Despite a sudden downpour of rain as guests arrived, spirits remained high as attendees embraced the evening’s black-tie Victorian mask theme in style.
Highlights of the Evening
The auction showcased exclusive items and experiences, including:
- A luxurious 7-day Porto getaway for four at Rebello Gaia Suites.
- A Montblanc Black Leather Travel Set, perfect for discerning travelers.
- A three-night stay for eight at Dolphin View Villa in Sedgefield, offering breathtaking views of Cola Beach.
- St. James Manor Bed & Breakfast in Kalk Bay, sponsored by Rovos Rail.
- Round-trip flights aboard a King Air 100 aircraft to Tswalu Kalahari, paired with fine dining at Restaurant Klein JAN by Michelin-starred Chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen.
- Warwick Trilogy 2003 (15L) wine and original artworks by renowned artists such as Anton Smit and Solly Smook.
- Andrea Bocelli concert tickets for his upcoming performance at SunBet Arena in Pretoria on 13 April 2025.
One particularly moving auction item was “A Star is Born – Naledi,” an original artwork created by young artists from Daybreak House for Babies, symbolizing resilience and hope.
Supporting Children in Need
Funds raised will benefit several Grove Schoombee Foundation initiatives:
- Daybreak Baby House, a safe haven for abandoned babies providing care until they find forever families.
- Hamba Nawe Paediatric Palliative Unit, offering holistic care to children with life-threatening illnesses at Steve Biko Hospital. Dr. Ané Buchner spoke passionately about the Hamba Nawe initiative during the evening, highlighting its importance in addressing pediatric palliative care needs in South Africa.
- Feeding schemes in Pretoria West to ensure school children receive nutritious meals daily.
- Support for children rescued from abusive environments, including therapy and special schooling needs.
A Night to Remember
The event was expertly led by MC Juanita de Villiers and auctioneer Andries Vermeulen, whose energy fueled thrilling bidding wars throughout the night. Guests also participated in raffle draws and lucky draws, with prizes such as vouchers from Miss Flores and exclusive wine hampers.
The Grové Schoombee Foundation expressed heartfelt gratitude to sponsors like Chas Everitt, MIES, and Este Jones Art for their generous contributions, as well as to all attendees who made the evening a resounding success.
About the Grové Schoombee Foundation
Founded in 2022, the Grové Schoombee Foundation is committed to transforming the lives of vulnerable children through initiatives that provide safety, education, therapy, and care. As a certified Public Benefit Organisation (PBO), donations are tax-deductible under Article 18A.
