Coming Together for Good
On Friday, 7 November, the courtyard of the Lord Charles Hotel in Somerset West was transformed into a hive of generosity, creativity, and compassion. In the spirit of giving back, 95 delegates from Dole South Africa came together for a hands-on event that proved how small acts, when done with great love, can create lasting impact.
The Snack and Smile event, hosted in partnership with SA Harvest, invited the Dole team to pack 400 snack bags for children supported by our network of community-based organisations. But this wasn’t just about packing snacks — it was about creating moments of joy and connection.
Creativity, Colour, and Compassion in Every Bag
Each delegate brought their creative flair to the table, decorating snack bags with colourful drawings and heartfelt motivational messages. What started as plain brown paper bags became messages of hope — small tokens of love that would brighten a child’s day.Inside each bag was a thoughtful mix of treats: trail nuts, an energy bar, a piece of fruit, a juice box, a packet of chips, and a freshly made cheese, tomato, and lettuce sandwich — lovingly prepared by our incredible partners at The Ark City of Refuge.
Keeping the Energy High
The event was hosted by SA Harvest’s own Zee Mapoma, who MC’d with infectious energy, keeping the team motivated, upbeat, and inspired — even under the soaring summer temperatures. Her warmth, humour, and heart created a sense of shared purpose that carried through every moment of the day.
A Special Visit from Under His Wings
In the midst of the laughter and camaraderie, guests were treated to a heartfelt performance from Under His Wings – Children’s Food Foundation, a CBO based in Strand and led by the remarkable Pearl Stryders.
The children’s joyful dance reminded everyone why they were there — to make a real difference in the lives of young people who deserve hope and happiness. Pearl also shared a few words about her organisation, which has been feeding up to 250 children daily for 17 years, providing nourishment, education, and care for vulnerable children in Sir Lowry’s Pass Village.
Words that Inspired Action
SA Harvest’s COO and Acting CEO, Ozzy Nel, addressed the crowd, expressing gratitude to the Dole team for embodying the spirit of collective action that SA Harvest stands for.
“What we’re seeing today is more than corporate giving,” Ozzy said. “It’s humanity in action — a reminder that when we each do a little, together we can do a lot.”
More Than a Goal Achieved
As the event drew to a close, the courtyard buzzed with pride and celebration. Though the goal had been 400 bags, the Dole team went above and beyond, packing an incredible 408 snack bags. Of these, 308 went to Under His Wings and 100 to The Ark — each one destined to brighten a child’s day and fill a little stomach with love.
A Day to Remember
Amidst the cheers, high-fives, and smiles, there was one clear takeaway: when purpose meets partnership, magic happens.
Thank you, Dole South Africa, for choosing to give back in a way that uplifts, inspires, and reminds us all of the power of community.