Presented by the Africa Centre for HIV/AIDS Management at Stellenbosch University in partnership with the Western Cape Government Health, the concert honours unsung heroes, salutes individuals and organisations who have contributed to the fight against HIV/AIDS. It also commemorates the 23rd World AIDS Day.
Since 2005 the Africa Centre for HIV/AIDS Management at Stellenbosch University has hosted the event. Professor Jan du Toit, director of the Centre, said: "We need to invest in models of service delivery that reach these and all population groups, and ensure equitable and quality services that are able to provide sustainable support to the most affected communities.
"For this reason we wish to acknowledge the Western Cape Government Health, our partner this year. Together we are able to heighten the awareness and implementation of the United Nations' Millennium Goals of HIV education to minimise infections, prevention and treatment to all citizens of South Africa."
Since its formation 10 years ago The Africa Centre for HIV/AIDS Management unit for teaching, research and community interaction has developed the most comprehensive and largest HIV/AIDS management training programme in the world and the Educational Theatre and Arts division has attained success with education, awareness, prevention and voluntary testing across the country under the leadership of Professor Du Toit and Professor Jimmie Earl Perry.
Amongst other artists featured at the Gala Concert are Vuyiseka Dubula, Nombeko Mpongo and Toni Zimmerman, three HIV-positive women who have defied the stigma of AIDS and are successfully living their lives helping others; Janelle Visagie and Arline Jaftha (Opera); a group of young jazz artists that include Sandile Gonstana, Chad Zerf, Amy Campbell, Spha Mdlalose, and Vuyo Sotashe; a 20-voice-strong youth choir directed by Lynette Petersen and Larry Joe who made headlines when he recorded his debut album "Crazy Life" in Douglas Prison a year ago.
Tickets cost R120 and are available from Computicket, Shoprite, Checkers outlets, and www.computicket.com or 0861 915 8000.
For more information call Bianca on +27 (0)21 808 3006/3707 www.aidscentre.sun.ac.za
