Art auction raises R100,000 for AlexFM

Established in the early 1990s, AlexFM also provides a walk-in centre and agent for community development and positive change. On air since 1995, AlexFM is in need of funding to acquire new premises to house the station, as well as additional funding to meet their 2014 objectives. It is one of the fastest growing community radio stations in Gauteng.

"Community simply means together," said Trinity Mohlamme, station manager at AlexFM. "We are the voice of Alexandra, we are helping to build our community, and we are the way that information is disseminated to the public."

Ten artists

The art auction featured ten local artists and was presided over by renowned Alexandra professional artist, consultant and curator, Bongi Dhlomo-Mautloa. Artwork was provided by Zolile Petchane, Jeanette Unite, Thabo Motseki, Osiah Masekoameng, Zacharia Mukira, Flora More, and Bongi Dhlomo herself.

A representative from Grant Thornton purchased a two-piece set from Capetonian artist Jeanette Unite for their offices. The Minister of Public Enterprises, Malusi Gigaba, also attended the auction and took home Zacharia Mukwira's untitled mixed media piece with after placing a winning bid on the framed artwork.

The final piece sold at the auction was a book entitled South African Art Now, by Sue Williamson with an appreciation by Elton John and foreword by Nadine Gordimer. The book will be personalised by the author and was snapped up by SABC radio news journalist, Pearl Magubane.

The charity gala was made possible by project leaders Bongani Ngobese and Thabo Maleka of BNTM Holdings, a company that aims to develop small and medium black owned organisations. The two entrepreneurs believe that AlexFM is an effective voice for the community, serving as an information provider as well as a walk-in centre and is therefore an integral part of the community.