By Vicki Cann, PhD Candidate at Communication University of China
Under the theme, "To Give is to Love," the Commonwealth Society in Beijing (CSB) will host its annual fundraising Gala on May 6 at the China World Hotel. Proceeds will be distributed among special charity organizations identified by the All China Women Federation (ACWF) and Roundabout Charities.
CSB visiting the All China Women Federation - in photo, CSB President Rosanna Brathwaite (center) and Madam Lei Zhang (third from left), Director General of Office of International Cooperation, ACWF - China Women's Development Foundation (Photo provided by CSB)
CSB has donated over 3 million RMB to several under privileged communities in China between 2012 - 2016, which serves to assist children, women and elderly. Last year's proceeds were distributed among the following organizations: The All China Women Federation; Xiajin Special Education School, Xiajin Village, Dezhou city, Shandong Province; Care Centre of Tongzhou, Beijing; Beijing Inspiring Art Troupe and Qui Yun Senior Models Team of Beijing.
2 CSB Executive memebers and Head of the Former Diplomats visiting a class room in Xiajin Special Education School, Xiajin Village, Dezhou city in Shandong Province (Photo provided by CSB)
Former CSB President Madam Huseina Demuyakor and Members of the Executive Committee presenting donations to representatives of Roundabout and the Beijing Soul Inspiring Art Troupe (Photo provided by CSB)
CSB members making a donation to the Women's Project of Xishan District of Kunming City in Yunnan Province (Photo provided by CSB)
The President of the Commonwealth Society in Beijing and Spouse of the Ambassador of Barbados in China, Madam Rosanna Brathwaite, said that earlier this year, Her Majesty the Queen, the Head of the Commonwealth, called for citizens of the Commonwealth to work together for peace and prosperity.
CSB President Madam Rosanna Brathwaite visiting the Little Dew Drops Orphanage in January 2017 (Photo provided by CSB)
"It is a call that echoes around the globe and one that we in the Commonwealth Society in Beijing willingly embrace. We recognize that our society in China brings together persons from different nations and backgrounds to build close ties and forges strong bonds for the greater prosperity of all especially those who live in our adopted home, the People's Republic of China," said Madam Brathwaite.
2015 Appreciation Luncheon for Sponsors of the 2015 CSB Charity Gala Photo provided by CSB
The CSB serves as a tangible bridge of friendship between China and the Commonwealth nationals residing in the country. CSB has been working with the All China Women Federation as both share similar goals to improve the lives of the less fortunate.
Lu Yamin, Deputy Director General of the ACWF's Liaison Department said,"The joint effort of the ACWF and CSB has spread to several provinces of China, much of which are highly appreciated by the local people. These projects not only improve the living conditions of women and children in poverty, but also exemplify the profound friendship between the people of the Commonwealth and the Chinese people … The ACWF is willing to continue to work together with CSB as we strive to do our part to promote everlasting peace, prosperity and the construction of a closer knit community. We are all working towards a common destiny for all mankind in the true spirit of win-win cooperation and shared benefits."
Approximately 600 guests including Commonwealth Ambassadors, diplomats, corporate heads and other noteworthy officials are expected to attend the high-profile event. In collaboration with LOOKWE Magazine, the 2017 Commonwealth Society in Beijing Magazine will be launched.
Participants will also be treated to guest performances by renowned entertainers from the Americas & Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Africa and Pacific regions. Raffle prizes include luxury vacation packages, flight tickets, artwork and much more. Guests would have the opportunity to win fantastic door prizes sponsored by companies such as BMW.
Embassy Officials attending the 2014 CSB Charity Gala (Photo provided by CSB)
Performers during the 2014 CSB Charity Gala (Photo provided by CSB)
Performers during the 2014 CSB Charity Gala (Photo provided by CSB)
The event would not have been possible had it not been for the work of those who have volunteered their time, talent and treasure, for which President Braithwaite thanks all involved.
"I am inspired by the CSB members who continue to volunteer their efforts and give their time and love to China. I am proud to represent you and I look forward to seeing how we will continue to work together to make all of us better citizens in our respective countries and in our beloved China."
Formed in 1931, the Commonwealth of Nations consists of 53 independent nations, most of which were former British colonies. The CSB is a non-profit, charity organization to support under-privileged children and women in China.
Vicki Cann, PhD Candidate at Communication University of China
(The opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Panview or CCTV.com)
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