South Africans unite, raising over R2.2 million for children’s charities spearheaded by Citadel, Ronan Keating, and Gary Player.
Johannesburg, South Africa (19 March 2024) – South Africans have once again proven their commitment to making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate, spearheaded by Citadel, alongside the legendary Ronan Keating and Gary Player, a remarkable sum of over R2.2 million has been raised to support children in need across the nation.
While the names involved may be notable, this initiative’s true significance lies in its profound impact on the beneficiaries: the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital Oncology Unit and the Blair Atholl Pre-Primary School children.
Through this noble endeavour, now in its sixth year, countless young lives will be positively affected, offering hope and opportunities for a brighter future.
The genesis of this philanthropic endeavour dates back to 2018, inspired by the deeply personal experiences of Keating and Player, who tragically lost their mothers to cancer. Driven by their enduring commitment to honouring their mothers’ legacies and making a meaningful difference, the annual Citadel event is making a real difference and has raised nearly R10 million to date.
Reflecting on his poignant motivation, Keating shares, “South Africa has a special place in my heart. I lost my mom to cancer in 1998. Since then, I have been committed to raising funds for cancer awareness, prevention, and treatment and fundraising for the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital Oncology Unit has been an important cause for me over the years”.
Similarly impassioned is Player, whose dedication to the Blair Atholl Pre-Primary School highlights his unwavering belief in education’s transformative power.
“I have witnessed children pass through the Blair Atholl Pre-Primary School for over 30 years and can attest to the difference the school makes in the community. Early Childhood Development is essential to ensure South Africa has a better tomorrow,” asserts Player, emphasising the pivotal role education plays in shaping the nation’s future.
The significance of this year’s event was further accentuated by its symbolic venue, Blair Atholl, a place deeply intertwined with Player’s personal history and philanthropic endeavours.
Reflecting on the occasion, Player expressed his pride, remarking, “It’s heart-warming that the event took place at Blair Atholl for the first time – a place where my late wife, Vivienne, and I spent many years working closely with the local community.”
Andrew Möller, CEO of Citadel, highlights the enduring commitment of the Citadel Philanthropy Foundation to effecting positive change in society. With a track record of disbursing almost R46 million towards deserving beneficiaries since its inception, Möller emphasises the foundation’s dedication to empowering children through education and financial literacy.
“In this war against poverty, we know that the most effective weapon in our arsenal is education,” asserts Möller, emphasising the pivotal role of collaboration in effecting meaningful change. “We thank you immensely for your contribution,” he adds, acknowledging the generosity and unwavering support of all those who contributed to this worthy cause.
In raising over R2.2 million for children in need, South Africans have once again demonstrated the profound impact that can be achieved when hearts and hands unite in pursuit of a common goal.
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