On November the 12th trustees, patrons and partners of Money for Madagascar were joined by hundreds of supporters to celebrate the charity's 25th birthday.
The event, took place at Union Chapel, Islington and began with a morning of exhibitions and speeches by beneficiaries, patrons and fundraisers, followed by a scrumptious Malagasy meal.
Patron, and world-renowned expert on the history and culture of Madagascar, Sir Mervyn Brown made a fascinating, moving and humorous speech celebrating 25 years of MfM's work before joining with long-term Money for Madagascar partner Yvette Rabemila to cut one of two cakes cooked to perfection by Julie Verney, our Co-ordinator's sister.
Once the delicious cake had been demolished, guests were treated to a magical afternoon of Malagasy music performed by inspirational Malagasy singer-songwriter Nogabe Randriaharimalala and his band of international musicians. In addition to performing many spellbinding songs about his home country Nogabe also unveiled a song inspired by and featuring the work of Akany Avoko, a Children's home supported by MfM for many years. Appropriately enough, this inspired spontaneous dancing in the aisles by some very young children - to the great delight of the audience.
In addition to being a wonderful celebration of many years of hard work, partnership, generosity and positive change, the event also helped raise much needed funds to support ongoing and future development projects on the Red Island.
Money for Madagascar are incredibly thankful to all the guests, supporters, patrons, beneficiaries and performers who worked together to make the day such a huge success. We would also like to offer our deepest gratitude to both the Grown Up Chocolate Company who made the event possible and Mad Flavours who were responsible for preparing the hundreds of incredible Malagasy meals eaten on the day. Our thanks also go out to the staff of Union Chapel who, through their hard work, courtesy and initiative, ensured that the day ran smoothly and safely.
We enjoyed the day so much we're already starting to think about our 50th anniversary. Although coming up with a way to top the excitement, warmth and sheer fun of our 25th birthday party may well take us a good few years to achieve!
