As a grand finale to Valcare’s annual women’s month campaign, a stylish high tea event was hosted at Kronenburg Estate on Tuesday 27 August 2019. The chosen 15 Proteas of the Valley ladies, along with the previous two years’ Proteas and honourable guests from the valley, were spoiled with an afternoon of encouragement, entertainment, delicious eats and special treats.
To set the scene, Hanneli Rupert-Koegelenberg started the occasion with a thoughtful devotion, quoting motivational words from the Proteas ladies and reading fitting scriptures. Hanneli, together with her husband Hein Koegelenberg, is strongly involved in the wine industry at the family farms La Motte Wine Estate and Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards. With a passionate commitment to fulfilling God’s will, she also helps to transform the local community to ensure that they face their future with hope, confidence and courage. Hanneli is also one of the founders of Valcare 16 years ago, and is still a director on the board.
The Executive Mayor of the Cape Winelands District, Alderman (Dr) Elna von Schlicht, delivered an interesting message, comparing the characteristics of the various protea plants with those of strong, resilient women.
Bottomless Coffee Band got the crowd thumping their feet to the beats of their energetic performance. Lourens and Esté Rabé are not only an incredibly talented multi-instrumentalist couple, but also loves uplifting and contributing to community through their vibrant music.
The highlight of the event, was when the MC, Simoné de Wet (MD of Val de Vie Events), read out the incredible stories of the 15 Proteas of the Valley ladies. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house, and guests were deeply moved by the tenacious spirit of the women that are selflessly making an enormous difference in the Cape Winelands.
“This initiative has made me feel worthy. I feel like my life has expanded and that I’ve received opportunities that I never thought I’d get. I have even been booked as a motivational speaker at events,” says Charlene Elliot, one of the Proteas of the Valley women for 2019.
The Proteas ladies were also given incredible goodie bags filled to the brim with gifts that include vouchers.
“Thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers and partners for making the Proteas of the Valley initiative a reality. An exciting movement has begun and we can’t wait to see how it’s going to grow and evolve each year!,” says Jolanda van der Lingen, Relationship Manager of Valcare.
