The District Chronicles

Issue date: 9/21/08 Section: Neighborhood

Media Credit: Brian Shirrel Cape Classics sommelier Zingo Munger pours South African wines for Taste of South Africa attendees during a tasting

Media Credit: Brian Shirrel South African Ambassador Welile Nhlapo joins the Mahala Township Jazz Band.

As individuals and organizations are reaching out internationally to offer a hand in healthcare, education and human rights policy, the Ithemba Foundation, raises money to give South African youth a chance to just have fun. Last week, the foundation held its fourth annual Taste of South Africa at the South African Embassy featuring wine tastings, the Mahala Township Band and a brief memorial to the country's Deputy Ambassador to the United States, Derrick Moyo who was expected to attend the event he helped found.

"This year, our event is even more special because we honored the man responsible for Ithemba, Derrick Moyo, who unexpectedly passed last week. With his support over the years, and the help of our supporters, we have been able to afford scores of children opportunities to be exposed to the arts," said Ithemba Foundation Executive Director Laurie Scott. "There's so many grave issues these kids deal with - famine, disease, broken families; we feel it important to incorporate enriching extracurricular activities in the lives of these South African youths."

The Ithemba Foundation, based in Washington, D.C., for six years, has underwritten empowering educational programs and activities including martial arts, computer and leadership courses, in addition to providing school meals to underprivileged South African youth.

Dignitaries, community activists, and media representatives attended the swanky event co-hosted by South Africa Ambassador to the U.S., Welile Nhlapo.

"The South African Embassy in Washington acknowledges and supports the efforts of the Ithemba Foundation in its important mission to contribute to the improvement and enhancement of the lives of South African youth," stated Ambassador Nhlapo. For more information visit: www.tosa.ithembafoundation.org.

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