From wine tastings and padel tournaments to pub quizzes and sunset celebrations, Event Management students at Stenden South Africa are turning practical learning into meaningful community impact. Successful event management requires more than creativity and organisation. It involves strategic planning, financial management, teamwork and the ability to transform an idea into a memorable experience. At Stenden South Africa, these competencies are developed through the Event Management Minor, an elective module available to all NHL Stenden students worldwide. As part of the minor, students are required to conceptualise, plan and host a fundraising event before presenting their work to complete the module. This hands-on approach allows them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations while contributing to causes that support local communities. During September, several student groups demonstrated how events can serve as both valuable learning experiences and effective fundraising initiatives.
The Grand Tour students of Saamkom at their Wine Tasting Event
At the Royal Alfred Golf Course, the Saamkom student group hosted a specialised wine-tasting event in support of JJ Haven, a safe home and orphanage for vulnerable children who have experienced abuse, neglect or abandonment. The event’s popularity was evident as tickets sold out quickly, offering guests an enjoyable and informative experience. Meridian Wines played an important role in the event’s success by sponsoring expert wine presenter Ms Robyn Bayne, donating wines for the tasting and contributing bottles for a wine auction. These contributions reduced the event’s operating costs, enabling the group to maximise its fundraising efforts. Saamkom subsequently handed over €13,351.52 to JJ Haven. One-third of the proceeds was allocated to purchasing games and essential supplies, while the remaining two-thirds will support repair work planned during the next module.
Combining sport with social responsibility, another student group organised Blind Date Padel in support of Little Angel Day Care. The creche, run by Gloria and Eppi, provides daily care for babies and young children. Together with donations received from the Netherlands, the initiative raised €3,000. The students’ involvement extended beyond fundraising. They spent time at the daycare painting walls and donated educational toys, contributing directly to the children’s environment. Reflecting on the experience, student Laura Romeijn said: “It felt great to really make a difference in this way. I look back on a very educational and valuable period that I learned a lot from.”
Meanwhile, Beyond Events hosted the Beyond Goodwill Pub Quiz, bringing participants together for an evening of friendly competition in support of JJ Haven. Guests were encouraged to dress in white, beige, red or black and bring a non-perishable food item for the charity. The Beyond Events team raised R 4150.00 for JJ Haven. Having cared for children for 34 years and supported 221 children over that period, this establishment continues to provide an important service to vulnerable young people.
Students raise money for Sunshine Life Centre
Jabula Events took a different approach by organising Langa – A Sunset Celebration, a farewell event for students completing their minors in South Africa. Featuring local DJs, a photo booth, card games and the crowning of Mr and Miss, the evening celebrated the friendships and experiences formed during the students’ time at Stenden South Africa. The event raised R4,180 for The Sunshine Life Centre, supporting its new project to repair houses in local townships.
Together, these initiatives highlight the value of experiential learning. By combining academic principles with practical challenges, students develop professional skills while gaining a deeper appreciation of community needs and social responsibility.
Ultimately, the success of these events extends beyond the funds raised. They demonstrate how thoughtful planning, collaboration and creativity can transform an academic assignment into an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.