BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
EZULWINI – Marydee Isibuko Serenity Foundation hosted an elegant and stylish annual “Fundraising Gala Dinner 2023 Outstanding Community Development Awards” event on Saturday night at the Happy Valley Hotel.
The successful event attracted an audience from all corners of the country. Local artist Judah gave a splendid performance, which was appreciated by the audience. Gospel artist Make Siwela also gave a brief performance. The Annual Gala Dinner and Awards event was graced by the presence of the Honourable Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development, Skhumbuzo Dlamini, who was the key guest speaker.
Other speakers were One Billion Rising Regional Africa Coordinator Colani Hlatjwako, local businessman Sibusiso Gamedze, and Mental Health Advocate Welile Kunene. There was a virtual presentation by Dr. Carolyne Opinde, the NGO Whisperer Centre for Social Impact (United Kingdom) founder and chief executive officer.
Marydee Isibuko Serenity Foundation Founder and President Dudu Dube thanked all their sponsors and partners, namely: Happy Valley Hotel (venue sponsorship), The Prince Legacy, Norokarmal Studio, Beautiful Hands Events, and Deco, as well as Elzip Africa. She also thanked the International Governing Council and Board of Directors and the Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development.
2023 Outstanding Community Development Awardees:
1. Outstanding Male Entrepreneur of the Year (Rising Star): Mr. Phiwayinkhosi Dlamini (Founder of Phiwa Curtains Home Improvement and Toe Tag Son Clothing)
2. Outstanding Female Entrepreneur of the Year (Rising Star): Mrs. Beketele Maziya (Founder: Lionheart Properties)
3. Mother Figure of the Year: Ms. Hlobsile Dlamini
4. Father Figure of the Year: Mr. Mxolisi Kenneth Shongwe (Couple’s Nest Network Chairperson, JC Mbabane Social Welfare Chairperson, and Boarder to Boarder Cycle Roue Founder)
5. Outstanding Leadership Award: Sicelo Sibanyoni. (Founder of Ashes to Beauty)
6. Outstanding Ambassador of the Year: Mr. Nathi Gule (Marketing, Media, and Research Consultant, Motivational Speaker, Business Mentor, Author, and Entrepreneurship World Accredited Business Mentor)
