“Become a Buddy” was the overwhelming spirit of another very successful Love to Live campaign, held from the 3rd to 5th May at the Protea Sports Centre. The event was without a doubt the biggest and best campaign to date, and a most appropriate way to celebrate the launch of our 20-year anniversary and 20 absolutely incredible years of service to the community. Maritzburgers responded with overwhelming support to the call by Love to Live to “Become a Buddy, Not a Bully”. It was an amazing sight to see the apt attention paid by the thousands of youth being educated by their peers on crucial public health issues. Thirty-five local schools enthusiastically embraced the event by participating in various talent contests, in which a strong message on “Become a Buddy, Not a Bully” were sent out to the community.
The Miss Love to Live contest on Friday night was an exciting event, with 32 contestants battling it out for the Miss Love to Live title, which was finally won by Silver Heights Secondary Grade 11 pupil, Lusanda Ngcobo. Captivating performances by Love to Live Gauteng Ambassador, Dezry Kay and other local artists added to the awesome vibe. They endorsed the campaign fully and supported the event on all social media platforms.
The stage was set early Saturday morning with the Love to Live “Become a Buddy, Not a Bully” motorcade, which was enhanced by Berg Street Primary drum majorettes (Love to Live’s very own “stars”) who brought the City Centre and the Raisethorpe CBD to a virtual standstill. Cyclists from all over PMB joined the motorcade adding to the impact of the event. It was an amazing sight to see the streets abuzz with cameras flicking continuously, amazement and joy on everyone’s faces.
The campaign recorded an increase in the number of entries in all categories. The quality of the submissions continues to improve from year to year, with schools competing for the winning sketch prize money, which was scooped by Northdale Primary & Silver Heights Secondary Schools. The exciting day concluded with a splendid live performance by the Thamasha Teams bhangra bash to add to the celebrations.
Some 4000 entrants participated in the fun run Sunday, 5th May, making this race one of the biggest fun runs in the city. Proceeds from the fun run have once again reached an unbelievable R650,000. Schools were presented with up to 90% of funds raised, at a special presentation on Wednesday, 24th July at the Eddels Sports Club.
Another highlight of the event was the celebration of the launch of Love to Live’s 20 year anniversary by the unveiling of the special 20 year anniversary banner depicting the themes over the past 20 years and the celebration that followed that was enjoyed by all.
Memories and images of the 20th edition of Love to Live will be indelibly etched in the minds of all.
