RED RIBBON
FOUNDATION
a beacon of hope to people living with
and affected by HIV/Aids
Words: Glenton ‘Liberty’ Matthyse
O
n 12 December 2015, the Red Ribbon Foundation
(RRF) took to Rondebosch Golf Club where it hosted
its Second Annual Red Ribbon Ball. Initiated two
years ago, the event gives a voice to persons living with
and affected by HIV/Aids. It has quickly grown from early and
humble beginnings to a major event that attracts support from
various South African celebrities. Well known celebrities such as
Salome Damon-Johanson, Irma G, Anton Jeftha, Soli Philander
and Kim Cloete have enthusiastically dedicated themselves and
pledged their support to the cause.
Continuing the wonderful work the organisation engages in,
another headline event that the RRF has successfully hosted
is the Igniting Change Concert. The event presents a night out
where people come together to transcend the stigma attached to
HIV/Aids and honour the memories of all lives lost in the fight
against HIV/Aids.
The RRF was founded on three primary pillars. The young
and vibrant organisation creates awareness around the stigma
surrounding HIV/Aids and the effect it has on persons living with
and affected by this chronic condition. It also seeks to educate
people through community-based training programmes which it
aims to roll out in the Mitchell’s Plain and Scottsville areas this
year. Through these initiatives, the RRF calls everyone to action
to spread and live the act of love beyond measure, irrespective of
a person’s HIV/Aids status.
Under the dedicated leadership of Dorian Basson and his
incredibly hardworking team, the organisation has already
made huge inroads in communities. RRF have raised funds and
distributed it to its two main benefactors, Missionary Sisters
of Charity (Khayalisha) and Lizo Nobanda Day Care for HIV
infected children.
If you would like to contribute to the growth of RRF and suppor