With Willam Berger, Lynelle Kenned and pianist Stefan Lombard

In aid of the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy.

Join the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy in collaboration with La Cotte Farm in Franschhoek for an unforgettable evening of music, fine dining, and festive elegance in aid of the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy.

This year’s Summer Gala Fundraiser — Sunset Arias — brings together internationally acclaimed artists Lynelle Kenned (soprano), William Berger (baritone), and Stefan Lombard (pianist), joined by violinist David Bester and cellist Dane Coetzee for a world-class performance of opera favourites, Broadway classics, and instrumental treasures.

Guests will enjoy Colmant Cap Classique and exquisite canapés by La Cotte Farm’s culinary team, served by the Academy’s graduates. “Every ticket changes a life,”  says Jeremy Davids, Head of the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy. “The funds raised go directly toward training young people for lasting careers in hospitality — giving them dignity, skills, and a future.” All proceeds support the Academy’s year-long hospitality programme, which combines professional training with hands-on experience and guarantees job placement after graduation. Since its founding in 2018, the Academy has trained more than 500 students, achieving a 96 percent employment rate and transforming the lives of youth across the Franschhoek Valley and beyond.

About the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy

Founded in 2018, the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy provides education and training to historically disadvantaged youth in the Cape Winelands. Its vision is to transform lives through opportunity — equipping students with professional skills, confidence, and experience to thrive in the hospitality and tourism industries.

To date, over 500 graduates have completed the programme, with an impressive 96% employment rate. In comparison with the soaring youth unemployment rate in South Africa of over 50%, the impact is felt far and wide. Many graduates now work in top establishments across South Africa and Europe, including 16 graduates currently working or studying in Austria. The Academy collaborates with esteemed partners such as the International Labour Organization (ILO) and Institute of Tourism Management (ITM), Austria, as well as local entrepreneurs, business owners and partners like the Franschhoek Wine Valley, DEFY, Haute Cabriere, Val de Vie Foundation, Cape Wine Auction and many more. The Academy is funded through a diverse network of donors, events, and community partnerships and is always looking to expand the scope of donors. Make a difference in someone’s life by sponsoring education! R2,500 per month per student are the funds raised via various initiatives. Each student contributes themselves as well, as one of the measures of success is gainful employment. 

Every graduate’s success ripples outward — supporting families, strengthening communities, and building a more inclusive local economy,  impacting the lives of the youth of Franschhoek and the whole community. 

Learn more at fhalc.co.za or follow @franschhoekhospitality on social media.

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*Currency in South African Rands (ZAR)