THE high tea to raise funds for local talented designer Carlos Fritz turned out to be a glamorous event at the Schornville Community Hall on Sunday afternoon.
Community members from King William’s Town, Breidbach, Schornville and surrounding areas dressed in their finest, attended the fundraiser to support fashion designer Carlos Fritz after his appeal for funding.
The GO! & Express newspaper last week published an article (“Designer gets nod for Dubai”) where Fritz appealed to the community for funding to help towards costs involved to showcase his creations at the annual Runway Dubai Fashion Show scheduled for next month.
Fritz describes the fashion show offer as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” and was ecstatic about representing the country on an international platform with the only stumbling block being the R60000 he needs for all the costs involved – which includes the platform, his return plane ticket and accommodation.
The high tea was held after a successful disco the previous evening at Pirates Club and was followed by a karaoke, all part of the many fundraising initiatives he has hosted over the past few weeks.
During the high tea the audience had good fun enjoying treats, drinks, and were entertained with items of song and an inspirational talk by guest speaker Gizelle Domingo, who was instrumental in giving Fritz the chance to participate in the Dubai Runway.
His creations were also showcased by local models, which were appreciated by everyone who packed the hall.
Domingo, who works in Dubai, United Arab Emirates but is originally from Port Elizabeth, presented a moving and inspirational speech while walking around the tables.
Her message in Afrikaans was clear “speak success and have faith …stop complaining and making excuses about your circumstances”.
Domingo said: “We can’t just sit; folding our arms and wishing for a shooting star because with great risks come great rewards”.
Gareth Williams was among the audience and also shared jokes on stage, saying: “My highlight was the manner in which family and friends pulled together to create an opportunity for one of our own to soar and to be successful, followed by the inspiring speech by the guest speaker”.
Hoërskool De Vos Malan matriculant and Miss Vossie 2015, Chandrè Cox modelled one of Fritz’s creations.
“It was such an awesome feeling to model in one of Fritz’s creations which would be on show in Dubai, I really feel honoured,” Cox said.
Fritz thanked Domingo for her support, Shane Christian Photography, GO & Express newspaper, Dhaysons KwikSPAR, family and friends who contributed, and to all present for the overwhelming support in making the event a phenomenal success.
“You all are just fantastic and I personally have no words other than to say thank you, you are the wind beneath my wings,” Fritz said.
He said afterwards: “Every cent helps and I am so grateful for the kindness and generosity showed by so many people and friends who is making life so much easy for me …I just feel like crying.”
