26/03/2026
Swiss4Afrika 🇨🇭🇿🇦 want to thank H.E. Ambassador Mirko Manzoni , Ambassador of Switzerland in South Africa, and the Embassy of Switzerland in South Africa for your unwavering support.
A Community United in Hope 🇿🇦🇨🇭
The Swiss4Afrika Chef Competition Cook-Off, held at Soli Deo Gloria Care Centre on Sunday, 22 March 2026, was far more than a culinary event, it was a powerful expression of unity, compassion, and purpose.
From residents and volunteers to sponsors and distinguished guests, the day brought together a community committed to making a difference. Participants competed with passion and pride, reminding us all that food is not just nourishment, it is dignity, creativity, and connection.
This meaningful initiative was proudly led and sponsored by Swiss4Afrika We4SA, under the leadership of Executive Director Randel van Heerden 🇨🇭🇿🇦 van Heerden, alongside Financial Director of Swiss4Afrika, Stéphanie Périllard , Sarah Fragniere, Benice Botha, and Marce Botha.
The Cook-Off formed part of a broader campaign to raise awareness around the very real challenges faced daily by Soli Deo Gloria Care Centre.
And those challenges are growing.
With poverty on the rise, more individuals and families arrive at Soli’s doors every day in desperate need of food, care, and hope. The centre currently provides meals to nearly 200 people, three times a day, despite operating from a kitchen that is too small and not up to standard.
Critical needs include:
• Expansion of the dining hall
• Replacement of the wood-fired boiler system
• Increased and sustainable food storage capacity
Yet, despite these challenges, Soli Deo Gloria stands firm, a true beacon of compassion, resilience, and service.
We were also honoured by the presence of global partners, including representatives Thom Renwick from Roche Pharmaceutical International. Their support highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing local challenges.
Most importantly, the Cook-Off restored dignity, built confidence, and reminded every participant that they have value, talent, and purpose.
Soli Deo Gloria Care Centre is not just a place — it is a movement. A movement rooted in community, upliftment, and opportunity.
We now extend an open invitation, and a challenge, to businesses, organisations, and individuals:
Partner with us.
Invest in hope.
Help us build a future where no one goes hungry, and where every person has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive.
Together, we can make a difference.
