On 22 May 2009, the University of Johannesburg(UJ) hosted a charity dinner for the Grupo Desportivo de Manica (GDM) community engagement program in Mozambique. Guest speaker Ryk Neethling (photo right), alongside ex- Bafana captain John Moeti and Lindi van Eeden (Egoli) added glamour to the intimate and inspirational evening.

Judge Neels Claassen (SA High Court, photo left) who serves as Trustee of the program opened proceedings and gave a brief overview of the program after which Program Manager, Schalk van Heerden (IDASA) spoke about neighborliness in the SADC region and the importance of equal relationships between helpers and those being helped.

The objective of the evening was to raise funds and share in the success of what has become a remarkable success story of very different and diverse people, caring for one another and building cross-cultural friendships. "For 80 ordinary people from Jozi to care like this about a community far away in the middle of Mozambique is amazing" stated Kutloano Toko, a regular volunteer of the program.

"Tonight is all about sharing our experiences and talking about our roles and responsibilities in the region. We have to show and live a counter narrative to the xenophobia story" said Van Heerden (photo right).

Neethling spoke about teamwork and perseverance under the title 'from success to significance' and shared reflections from his journey to the top. He drew parallels between his own journey and that of the GDM program and was clearly impressed: "Its an honour to be here tonight, what the guys are doing in Manica is commendable and special".

The UJ Architecture students showcased the integrated Stadium and Training Centre designs they made for Manica and the UJ Communications Students presented communication strategies for GDM earlier in the week. Colmant sponsored 'bubly', Hanno van Zyl provided music and UJ Alumni sponsored the food, which was of the highest standard. Sponsors Barclays/ABSA and Laureus Sport for Good Foundation also expressed their gratitude for the efforts of the 'ordinary' people of Johannesburg that are making an extraordinary difference.