Nearly 200 residents gathered at Valentino Park for a child trafficking awareness fundraiser supporting vulnerable youth.
Beyond Priceless hosted the event on Saturday 28 March. It blended family fun with a serious message about trafficking.
Event raises awareness and funds
The Easter Egg Hunt fundraiser aimed to raise money and increase awareness about child trafficking.
“The aim of the event was to generate funds for our work, while also raising awareness that trafficking is happening all around us, and that communities can do something about it,” said Salomé Geiger, Founder and CEO of Beyond Priceless.
Children and adults took part in the Easter egg hunt. The programme also included face painting, games and food stalls.
Entry was free. The organisation encouraged donations.
“Our heart is to include the whole community, regardless of financial means,” said Geiger.
Support for vulnerable children
The organisation will use the funds to support its programmes. This includes plans for a place of safety for at-risk children and youth
Beyond Priceless registered as an organisation last year. Its leadership team brings decades of experience in anti-trafficking and community work.
Authorities have identified the Central Karoo as a key hotspot for trafficking. This includes Beaufort West.
Truckers hub tackles trafficking on N1
The organisation has expanded its work along the N1. It launched a Truckers Against Trafficking hub to reach drivers directly.
The hub offers a safe space for truck drivers. They can rest, access basic health services and engage in conversations about trafficking.
The team also equips drivers to report suspicious activity.
A recent survey found that some drivers had seen young girls and women being exploited along major routes.
“We are already seeing impact through truck drivers sharing valuable information and data related to trafficking activities,” said Geiger.
Ongoing awareness and challenges
Beyond Priceless runs awareness programmes in schools and communities. It also plans stakeholder training on the Trafficking in Persons Act.
The organisation continues to face challenges.
“Our biggest challenges include securing sustainable financial support and improving ongoing collaboration between government departments and civil society,” said Geiger.
Community urged to act
Geiger urged residents to support the organisation. People can donate, volunteer or report suspicious activity.
“Communities should look out for unusual travel patterns, controlling behaviour or signs of fear among vulnerable people,” she said.
“Our approach recognises that trafficking links to poverty and unemployment. We remain committed to fighting child trafficking and building stronger communities.”
