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Christel House was graced by the presence of former Springbok captain Jean de Villiers when he hosted an inspiring business breakfast event in aid of the children’s charity last week.
Guests were treated to an in-depth look into De Villiers’s personal career, the motivational principles that got him through the toughest of times, and his ongoing journey to deliver a positive change in South Africa.
“We are all different, we should take the time to get to know each other as this deeper understanding will make the world a better place,” De Villiers said in his address.
De Villiers, who retired from Springbok rugby in 2016 as the second-most capped Springbok captain of all time, inspired guests with his journey of fighting adversity and highlighted the importance of nurturing the dreams and talent of the youth.
With 109 caps under his belt, he is the fourth-most capped player in the history of South African test rugby.
His first participation at an international level was in the South African Sevens team in 2001 and a year later he ran out for the 15-man Springbok team for the very first time. Over the years, he overcame several big injury blows to build a reputation as one of the world’s best inside centres and lead the Springbok team to many international victories. Now as the head of philanthropy at Citadel Investment Services, De Villiers has taken on a new leadership role to bring about change in society, particularly through education.
The event included various song and dance items performed by Christel House students – creating the perfect ambience for the 140 attending delegates to network and participate in a Q&A session with De Villiers.
As part of the event, a signed Springbok jersey along with signed rugby balls were auctioned off in aid of the educational costs of Christel House students.
Christel House nurtures and develops young people to take their rightful place in society, with 91% of its graduates either studying or working – delivering measurable benefits in support of South Africa’s development path. One hundred percent of all donations and funds raised will benefit Christel House’s projects and programmes.
The second annual Christel House Business Breakfast will take place on Friday 19 October – this time hosting ex-finance minister, Trevor Manuel, to deliver a message of social change.
