On Friday, 29 November 2024, the Wits Australia Foundation marked a significant moment with its inaugural Gala Luncheon. The event brought together alumni, friends, and supporters of Wits University, celebrating a shared commitment to education, innovation, and community development.
The luncheon was graced by the presence of Professor Zeblon Vilakazi FRS, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of the Witwatersrand, who served as the guest of honour. His leadership and vision for Wits University as a powerhouse of academic excellence and innovation provided an inspiring backdrop to the event.
Adding further prestige to the day, keynote addresses were delivered by two esteemed Wits alumni—Gail Kelly and Stephen Koseff. These luminaries have made extraordinary contributions on both local and global stages, reflecting the transformative power of a Wits education.
Proceeds from the luncheon will directly fund Wits University Postgraduate Scholarships and Bursaries, empowering academically deserving students to achieve their dreams. These scholarships provide critical financial support, covering tuition and living expenses, allowing students to focus on their studies and aspire to create positive change in their communities and beyond.
A Proud Partnership with Brave New World Wine
Brave New World Wine was honoured to be one of the event partners, contributing two exclusive auction items that showcased the excellence of South African wines.
Rare Selection of Kanonkop Estate Wines
This remarkable lot featured a vertical lineup of Kanonkop’s flagship Bordeaux Blend, Paul Sauer, spanning the 2015 to 2019 vintages. The collection included the historic Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2015, South Africa’s first 100-point wine. Known for its depth and aging potential, this vertical exemplified Kanonkop’s winemaking artistry.
The Kanonkop Vertical included:
- Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2015 (100 Points - Tim Atkin MW)
- Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2016 (96 points – Tim Atkin MW)
- Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2017 (98 points – Tim Atkin MW)
- Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2018 (96 points – Tim Atkin MW)
- Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2019 (98 points – Tim Atkin MW)
Exclusive Multi-Vintage Selection of Capensis Chardonnay
This exceptional lot highlighted the diversity of South Africa’s terroir with a vertical selection of Capensis Chardonnays.
Capensis Western Cape Chardonnay is crafted from high-altitude vineyards in Stellenbosch, Robertson, and the Overberg, offering a nuanced and elegant expression.
Capensis Fijnbosch Chardonnay, sourced from a single vineyard in the Banghoek Valley of Stellenbosch, showcases refined craftsmanship akin to Grand Cru Chablis.
The Capensis Vertical included:
- Capensis Chardonnay 2016 (93 Points - Tim Atkin MW)
- Capensis Chardonnay 2019 (95 Points - Tim Atkin MW)
- Capensis Fijnbosch Chardonnay 2015 (95 Points - Tim Atkin MW)
- Capensis Fijnbosch Chardonnay 2019 (95 Points - Robert Parker and Tim Atkin MW)
Auction Success
The generosity of attendees shone brightly during the auction. The Kanonkop Paul Sauer lot fetched an impressive $2,500, while the Capensis Chardonnay collection garnered $700. These contributions will significantly impact the lives of Wits students, reinforcing the spirit of giving and community that the luncheon embodied.
The inaugural Wits Australia Foundation Gala Luncheon was a resounding success, setting the stage for future gatherings that continue to celebrate the shared values of education, innovation, and community impact. With the support of partners like Brave New World Wine and a vibrant network of alumni and friends, the foundation looks forward to strengthening its ties and driving positive change for generations to come.
