It’s hard to believe it’s been almost three weeks since Rafiki Royale, the biggest event in Rafiki Mwema’s history… we are only just catching our breath. Over 250 people bought tickets to our Las Vegas-themed event in Lennox Head, Northern NSW, where the Rafiki Mwema story began, all those (13) years ago. And what a night!
The love, energy, and generosity in the room were unlike anything we’ve experienced before. But I’ll do my best to capture the magic and say thank you to the incredible people who made it happen.
Built on Love (and Volunteers)
Like everything we do at Rafiki, Rafiki Royale was run on love, grit, and a shoestring budget — because we want every possible dollar to go directly to Kenya. And thanks to our tireless team of volunteers, that’s exactly what happened. The entire venue was transformed over 2 days, with almost every decoration made by hand.
Our heartfelt thanks to every single volunteer who helped in the lead-up and on the night – packing, planning, lifting, cleaning, crafting, painting, driving, collecting, setting up, styling, hosting, selling raffle tickets, and everything in between. You are the heartbeat of Rafiki.
Our Incredible Supporters
We were thrilled to have the generous backing of our longtime friend and absolute legend, Sonya Driver from Eco by Sonya, who took the Major Event Sponsor category with a $10,000 donation to the event and 10 boxes of delicious Eco by Sonya products. Thanks to hers and the generosity of other local businesses, our first 200 guests received goodie bags valued at over $150 each!
Huge thanks also go to:
- Krissie and her daughter Megan, who lovingly packed every single goodie bag and let them take over her house.
- The Byron Shire Echo, our major media partner.
- Northern Rivers Media for supporting the event across their publications
- Joe from Crypto Consulting Institute, Jamesons Strata Management, Victoria from The Snap Wagon, Byron Luxury Homes, Quattro Restaurant, Bulls Eye Security and Cranfield Group for their financial support.
- Lennox Pizza Bar & Kitchen, who kept our bellies full all night with an amazing spread.
- Drawn Upon, who created all the beautiful visuals.
- The Penney’s & The Cellar in Ballina for keeping the drinks flowing!
- Claire from Barefruit Marketing, who came up with the idea and planned, negotiated, begged, booked and pushed the event with me for almost 6 months! Claire is also a founding board member of Rafiki.
The Night Itself
From the moment the doors opened, it was magic (and a little bit of mayhem). MC Mandy Nolan, a long term Rafiki ambassador and dear friend, lit up the stage with her wit and warmth. We were wowed by:
- Heart of Dance troupe, who were a highlight for me (help them get to world titles )
- Talented local musicians Guy & Nicci (Nicci is also a founding Rafiki board member)
- Special guest Bony from Australian Idol, who shared his story and his voice so generously
- A surprise appearance from Marilyn Monroe & Elvis Presley (no Vegas night would be complete without them!)
- The Casino tables, which were a huge hit
- Some incredible prizes in our raffle and auctions
- Photobooth fun from The Snap Wagon
- Hair and makeup touch-ups by the gorgeous Kaye Savin
- Bar and wine service from The Penney’s, Isola Wines and Winding Road Distillery
And no night in Vegas is complete without the paparazzi capturing your every move – thank you Value Imagery, Nat Grono, & Bronte Dunning Creative for volunteering their time and skills to capture such wonderful memories – seen throughout this blog.
The Impact: More Than Just One Night
The feedback from guests has been overwhelming, and the impact even more so. We started with a fundraising goal we never thought we’d reach… but you helped us smash it.
We raised over $55,000! Almost equivalent to 100% of Rafiki Mwema’s running costs for one month!
But instead of simply covering operations, we’ve made the bold decision to invest in our sustainability plan.
These funds will be used to purchase livestock, chickens, fish, and crops, so we can grow and produce our own food at Doyle Farm, meaning:
- Less reliance on external food suppliers
- Valuable life skills for our children in agriculture and sustainability
- Income opportunities
- A circular economy that keeps giving back
This is more than just a cost-saving initiative, it’s a future-focused plan that empowers our children and our staff, and builds independence and strength for the future of Rafiki Mwema.
You Made This Happen
To everyone who bought tickets, attended, sponsored, volunteered and supported Rafiki Royale – your smiles, laughter, tears, bids, dancing, donating, and posing made it a night we will never forget. And to those who couldn’t be there but continue to support us, thank you. None of this would be possible without any of you.
We’ll be back with more updates as the funds are spent, but for now… please enjoy this blog, relive the joy, and know that you’ve made a real and lasting impact.
With love and gratitude,
Sarah & the Rafiki Mwema Family 💛🫶🏾
