THE Herald, South Africa’s oldest running newspaper, will
celebrate an extraordinary milestone on 7 May 2025, marking 180 years of unwavering commitment
to fearless journalism, storytelling, and community connection.
As we reflect on nearly two centuries of serving the Eastern Cape and the broader South African
community, we pause to appreciate the legacy we’ve built, and more importantly, the people,
places, and events that have shaped our journey. For our birthday, we will be giving back to the
community that has supported us for the last 180 years.
The Cause: Partnering with the Kolisi Foundation
In the spirit of giving back, The Herald will host a gala dinner and music concert on May 2 2025, with
proceeds from the event to benefit the Kolisi Foundation, co-founded by the Eastern Cape’s own
Siya Kolisi. The foundation’s mission to address issues such as education, sports development,
gender-based violence, and food security aligns closely with The Herald’s values and long-standing
commitment to social change.
The foundation works alongside six schools in Zwide, empowering young learners through access to
quality education and sports development opportunities.
“This collaboration was important for us because we wanted to ensure that we give back to the
community that has supported us over the years, and what better project to support than the work
that is being undertaken by the Kolisi Foundation, co-founded by one of Gqeberha’s best exports,”
said Rochelle de Kock, Editor of The Herald.
“The work of the foundation speaks directly to the heart of our community and the issues that
matter most. Supporting the Kolisi Foundation was a no-brainer for us.”
De Kock said 180 years of staying power in the news media industry, particularly in print journalism,
was a major feat and worth celebrating.
“We have been the eyes, ears and voice of the community for 180 years, and the impact that we
have made to the lives of many residents in our readership area has been immense.”
The Kolisi Foundation’s partnership and resource manager, Lauren Budde, said the support would
allow them to accelerate their impact within the Zwide schooling community.
“It means a tremendous amount to us, The Herald are celebrating a remarkable achievement which
you could have done yourself but opting to choose us as a partner speaks to the commitment of
community development.”
She said the funds would be used to bolster the education and sporting programmes being
facilitated by the foundation in six Zwide schools, benefiting 3,600 pupils in total.
“Seeing the growth of the programme over the last three years not only in the physical aspect but
the mental, life skills and nutritional benefits for these pupils has been amazing,” Budde said.
A Night of Music, Culture & Community
At the celebratory music gala evening, The Herald will pay tribute to Siya Kolisi, in recognition of the
pivotal role he has played—not only in our community but across the country.
It will be an evening filled with fine dining (with a 3-course meal), music and celebration featuring a
few artists born and raised in the Eastern Cape - Ami Faku, J’Something and Dumza Maswana – and
the legendary singer-songwriter Sipho ‘Hotstix’ Mabuse, alongside Unathi Nkayi as host.
Let’s celebrate 180 years of legacy together as a community.
Event Details
�� Date: Friday, 2 May 2025
�� Venue: Sun Boardwalk Convention Centre
�� Dress Code: Formal Black Tie
About The Herald
Established in 1845, The Herald is the oldest continuously running newspaper in South Africa based
in Gqeberha. For 180 years, it has remained a trusted voice in journalism, championing truth,
promoting dialogue, and fostering community spirit in the Eastern Cape and beyond.
For media enquiries, interviews or sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Berna Ulay-Walters: Marketing Manager
041 504 7135
ulayb@theherald.co.za
