The Network’s well-attended 2025 year-end gathering at the vibrant Urban Farmer Market at Blackfriars featured an outstanding programme. Member speakers—Cara Goschen from the Do More Foundation, Richard Mason representing The Kay Mason Foundation, and Bazil Solomon from the South African Association—shared insights into their organisations’ work. Unplanned yet inspiring, a common theme emerged: collaboration and mutual support in uplifting and developing people, particularly children and vulnerable communities across southern Africa.
Incoming Network trustee, Cara Goschen, led a fun “Mentee Meter” activity to discover what members value most about the Network. The top priorities? Practical “how-to” training sessions—especially on fundraising—and opportunities for collaboration.
Back by popular demand, Global South African Francis West, CEO of Security Everywhere, delivered invaluable insights into the ever-escalating threat of cybercrime. A leader in his field, Francis exposed the often-overlooked dangers of hacking and other malicious activities that threaten non-profits. His practical steps for staying safe were sobering yet empowering, leaving everyone alert and informed.
Annie Blanchard, Customer Success Manager at GivenGain—sponsors of the delicious refreshments provided by Limoncello—shared her expertise and passion for challenge events. Annie offered a step-by-step guide to creating fun, adventurous activities for supporters and their families, turning them into meaningful fundraising opportunities. Her enthusiasm for collaboration and creative campaigns shone through.
Founding (and now former) trustee Geoff Johnson returned to honour the Network’s founding chair, Jill Ritchie, along with Louise Seligman and Peter Burdin, who are stepping down as trustees. Geoff graciously described Jill as a “Person Extraordinaire.”
Incoming chair Kelvin Glen closed the event by thanking everyone, reminding us that the Network’s success is built on the support and commitment of all involved.
Special mention:
Professional photographer and global South African, Ronel van Zyl, voluntarily offered to do photography for the Network upon its inception. True to her word, Ronel attended the vast majority of the gatherings over 15 years and captured for posterity the people, mood and invaluable networking of southern- and South African-supporting UK non-profits’ representatives. Traveling at her own expense and giving of her time and expertise at no charge, Ronel’s support has been deeply valued. She certainly deserves an Award!