‘Carnival’ spirit comes to Port Alfred
6,000 attendees enjoy successful Sunshine Life Centre fundraiser
The vibrant spirit of the Carnival came alive in Port Alfred on April 12 and 13, as the Sunshine Life Centre and Fun4U joined forces to host an exhilarating two-day extravaganza that captured the hearts and imaginations of attendees.
Our picturesque town was transformed into a hub of excitement and entertainment, as families, friends, and thrillseekers descended upon the Carnival grounds to indulge in an array of festivities as sounds of laughter and excitement filled the air, with young and old enjoying the rides.
The event attracted 6,000 attendees.
With an impressive line-up of 40 vendor stalls over the two days, offering everything from delectable savoury snacks to sweet treats and engaging games, the Carnival also provided an opportunity for local artisans and businesses to showcase their talents and products.
“We are thrilled by the overwhelming response and support from the Port Alfred community,” said Hyman van Zyl, spokesperson for the Sunshine Life Centre.
“Our aim was to create an event that would bring people together, spread joy, and create lasting memories, and we are
delighted to see that our efforts have resonated with so many.
“We are incredibly grateful to all the vendors, volunteers, and sponsors who contributed to the success of this event.
“Their dedication and support was instrumental in bringing the Carnival to life and creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
“As the sun set on the final day of the Carnival, attendees left with hearts full of joy and memories to cherish.
“The event not only provided a moment of respite and celebration but also served as a testament to the power of community and the enduring spirit of togetherness,” Van Zyl said.
Explaining the role of the Sunshine Life Centre, Van Zyl said: “In an ideal world, every
Our aim was to create an event that would bring people together
child would grow up in a nurturing environment, surrounded by secure families, with access to essential resources such as early childhood development programmes, education, proper nutrition, and opportunities for a fulfilling life.
“Sadly, this ideal is far from reality for many in our society.
“The funds generated by the Carnival are for the sole purpose of the expansion of services provided at the Life Centre, to reach underserviced and marginalised segments of our community that face a myriad socio-economic challenges.
“But it’s not just about meeting immediate needs.
“It’s about equipping individuals with the tools and support to transform their lives for the better.
“By offering counselling support guidance in employment preparedness and job seeking, skills development, fostering entrepreneurship and addressing issues like substance abuse and homeless children, these programmes pave the way for sustainable progress and empowerment.
“So, we don’t just address symptoms; we tackle root causes and empower individuals to break free from the cycle of adversity and poverty, creating a brighter, more hopeful future for our community.
Visit the centre’s website on www.shine.ngo to view videos of the Carnival and for information about its programmes, and businesses and individuals who supported the Carnival fundraising event.
Fun4U is a leading event management company specialising in creating memorable and engaging experiences for communities across the country.