An Afternoon at Francois Pienaar’s MAD Charity Pre-Argus Fundraiser

I recently attended the Klein Constantia / Omega Pharma Quick-Step charity cocktail do in aid of Francois Pienaar’s MAD Charity (Make a Difference). Held at the gorgeous Klein Constantia wine farm, there was a fantastic turn-out despite the weather and everyone seemed ready to have a good time. There was an auction which saw some exciting items being swept up by enthusiastic bidders. From a 5 star break-away for two donated by the Royal Portfolio to a brand new top-of-the-range bike donated by Specialized Bikes, guests were keenly getting involved for a good cause. It also helped that pro-cycling legend Eddy Merckx was there!

The MAD Charity was founded in 2003 and has supported 2000 learners to date. Its goal is to build a better South Africa by nurturing and developing the moral leaders of tomorrow through investment in their education today. They seek out academically talented youngsters from financially disadvantaged homes across SA and offer them an opportunity to receive a good education at a great school. They do all this while simultaneously mentoring, guiding and counselling them to realise their full potential. Every student accepted into the MAD Charity bursary programme receives personal mentoring and support as well as financial assistance. One of their most accomplished learners, Spencer, is busy earning his degree in Mechanical Engineering from Harvard University! He is due to graduate next year. With head offices all over South Africa as well as in the UK and USA, the MAD Charity is only getting bigger. They are certainly leaving a blazing trail in their wake as they cultivate strong leaders for tomorrow by ‘making a difference’ in lives today. To see how you can get involved, click here.