Situated along one of South Africa's most beautiful coastlines, moyo Blouberg ( Eden on the Bay) played host to the third moyo Models for Africa event. This prestigious venue has long been associated with great causes, the first event in Stellenbosch having raised over half a million rand for this year's main beneficiary, SALT

The partnership between moyo and Models for Africa has grown strong over the last five years and it was with great enthusiasm and much planning that the teams from either side came together to honour the people of our nation through fashion, feasting, music and a special brand of fellowship that is beautifully and distinctly African.

From the start, the 2011 function was promising to be something very special. Designers and clothing labels such as Cindy Bam, Nazir off the peg, House of Silk, Babette and Label Femme donated items for a fashion show as well as for auction. A runway was created that winded through the tables of the venue, where any of the 100 guests in attendance could get a closer view of each designer's range. To kick off the evening, there was entertainment on the balcony overlooking the ocean by local Jazz sensation Vuyo Sotashe. An incredible ambience began to build as various guests arrived and were treated to welcome canapés and cocktails. Once everyone was seated, the MC for the evening, Roxi Ingram, took to the stage and gracefully welcomed everyone. Pauline de Klerk, the head of SALT, proceeded to give a speech about the organisation and their work, giving testimony to the impact that caring for families has on our local communities.

With the fashion show in full swing, dinner was served and each guest was treated to the delicious fare that moyo is famous for. Local musicians Evelyn Hart and Matt Roux provided entertainment in between each course as well as each designer's show, and by the time the auction began at the end of the night, people's appetites for supporting SALT were thoroughly whetted!  The auctioneer for the evening, Jade Mostert aka Dangerboy from 5fm, got on to a fabulous roll and all manner of items were auctioned off to the very generous crowd. From dresses to diamonds, each person was made to feel a part of the exciting atmosphere with the usual bustle of the restaurant downstairs adding to the feel of the room and the quality of each person's experience.

With a beautifully emotive closing by Roxi and thundering applause for all involved, the evening gradually wound down and was brought to a close. With nearly R80 000 raised for SALT, one can honestly say that there was not a single person who attended who was not impacted deeply by the events of the night. There is something to be said for the flavour, enjoyment and humanity of African hospitality. It is something soulful and not surface-deep, colourful and textured with friendship and life, reaching each and every sense once has - from the ears through to the eyes and down to the heart. It is exciting to know that an event like this one can only grow and be a blessing to all, especially to those who are vulnerable and in need of a helping hand.

Bring on 2012!