“Laughs for the Arch” Gala Auction and Dinner – The Second Annual Fundraiser for the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation

July 2, 2024
Disruptors and Changemakers

The Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation (DLTLF) announces the second annual fundraiser, taking place in Cape Town on July 13, 2024.

Guests are invited to join in a night of connection and comedy at the Laughs for the Arch Gala Auction and Dinner, a tribute to the “Arch” and his legacy of moral clarity, courage, and joy. Hosted at the prestigious Cape Town City Hall, this second edition of the gala event promises an evening of laughter and entertainment, as well as philanthropy.

The highlight of the evening will obviously be the live auction led by the experienced auctioneer Philip Powell. Guests will have the opportunity to bid on a variety of artworks, collectables, and unique experiences. All proceeds will, of course, go towards supporting the impactful projects and programmes championed by the DLTLF, focused on fostering justice and peace worldwide.

The event, aimed at preserving and advancing the values cherished by Archbishop Tutu and Mrs Leah Tutu, will bring together 160 distinguished guests including ambassadors, business leaders, civil society figures, and, of course, supporters of the Foundation. Hosted by the talented Mel Jones, attendees will enjoy stand-up performances by renowned comedians Marc Lottering and Nik Rabinowitz, ensuring a night filled with laughter and meaningful connections.

“Laughs for the Arch is an evening of comedy celebrating Archbishop Tutu’s unique sense of humour. One of his most endearing qualities was his irrepressible laugh. Humour was an important feature of his leadership. Not only was he the first one to laugh at himself, but he also had an uncanny ability to use humour to channel people’s anger and despair towards positive action.”
Janet Jobson, CEO The Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation

Bracelets

Adding to the night’s significance, the Gala Auction and Dinner will mark the launch of the Foundation’s Tutu bracelets, a symbol of unity and support for the DLTLF’s initiatives. Crafted in collaboration with Relate, these custom unisex bracelets represent the spirit of ubuntu – “I am because we are”. Crafted by seniors, refugees, and township youth, the endeavour empowers them economically while giving back to charitable causes.

“We are currently in a time of growing apathy, major global crises, increasing conflict, frightening climate change and stubborn inequality,” continues Jobson. “Now more than ever, we miss Desmond Tutu’s voice of moral clarity, of courage, and of joy!”

“The Arch used to say that “the tidal wave of change is made up of a million ripples”. Now is the time for us to mobilise these million ripples to secure his legacy of hope, of justice, of peace, and of healing.“