More than $2,000 was raised at the Fashion and Cocktail show, jointly organised by the Rotary Club of Borrowdale Brooke, and Pathways Autism Trust. Held at the Brooke Manor Lodge, the residence of PP Ann Hamilton-King, who not only gave the venue for free in the true Rotarian spirit, but also donated $1,000.

The event was held in respect of World Autism Day, held every year on April 2.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors, which are often a massive strain on the parents.

Attended by some 200 friends and neighbours, the Fashion Show Soiree created a wonderful atmosphere at this Country Manor with its acres of green lawn – normally the venue for high-class weddings of up to 1,000 guests. Special cocktails were created for the event, as well as snacks being provided.

The money was raised to assist Pathways Trust, founded by Flora and Godfrey Chinhaire, and a number of other parents whose children suffer from Autism. Their dream is to have a Centre of Excellence for Autism in Zimbabwe, as there is currently little assistance locally for children who suffer from this disease, or their parents.

A number of local fashion designers showed off their designs with attractive models during the course of the evening, with ZiFM’s witty Tonderai Katsande (TK) playing the role of MC.

A number of items were auctioned including a bicycle and two dresses, one of which was made of pure silk and went to a visitor from the island of Guernsey. One dress was bought by the modeling agency itself. Santa also visited the event, to conduct the draw for the fundraising raffle.

Rotary’s fundraising efforts are ongoing, with a $2,100 of a $5,000 target raised so far, with a view to sending five Pathways Autism Trust staff for specific training in South Af-rica on how to care for autistic children.

Article: Marek Dergiman
Photo: Flora and P Panganai – parents of a child with autism speak during proceedings.

Donations can be made to the Rotary Club of Borrowdale Brooke bank account at NMB Borrowdale branch A/C: 260059057. Or email pdhliwayo@gmail.com for more infor-mation. Marek Dergiman is the treasurer for Rotary Club of Borrowdale Brooke.