It’s one of the biggest events in the fundraising calendar and this year’s Kenya Ball, held in Cork, Ireland was one of the best yet.
Bringing together supporters, friends and volunteers for a night of celebration and raising thousands of euro for community development projects in Kenya.
Alongside close to 300 guests, we welcomed six Kenyan guests of honour to share the evening of great food, dancing and a live auction. His Excellency Richard Opembe, Kenyan Ambassador to Ireland attended with his wife Suzanne Opembe, a Kenyan pop star and music producer who was heavily involved in our Nothing Will Stop Me campaign earlier this year. Staff members from Londiani, Richard Kirui and Reuben Koskei, attended their first ever Irish ball as part of a two-week visit to Ireland. Guest speaker Honorine R Kiplagat, an advocate for women’s rights and a supporter of Brighter Communities Worldwide since it was founded, attended with her daughter Sahondra Kiplagat.
CEO of Brighter Communities Worldwide, Martin Ballantyne said: “Fundraising here in Ireland is so important if we’re to continue our projects in Kenya. The ball is a celebration of all the hard work throughout the year and provided the perfect opportunity for local supporters and volunteers to meet some of our Kenyan team and colleagues. Over €20,000 was raised on the night and many strong friendships made. Thank you to the Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork, our board, staff, partners and the many committed volunteers who attended and supported the event.”
Guests were treated to a video of our menstrual hygiene management campaign, Nothing Will Stop ME, featuring the anthem written and produced by Suzanne Opembe, founder of the Sub-Saharan Entertainment group.
During her speech to launch the evening, Honorine R Kiplagat chose a Kenyan proverb to inspire guests to continue to support Brighter Communities Worldwide. She said: “If you want to walk fast, walk alone; if you want to walk far, walk together. So, let’s all walk together. Nothing will stop us when we work together for the benefit of the people.”
