Tafta model, Georgina Winifred Rasmussen, gears up for the big show.

Tafta collaborates with Jane Linley-Thomas to host a Spectacular Sapphire Soirée

In collaboration with Jane Linley-Thomas (Radio DJ and Founder of the ReJoyce Collection), Tafta will host a Gala Dinner and Fashion Show on 27 October 2023 at the Durban Jewish Club. The evening will showcase a ‘precious’ range of clothing and accessories designed by Linley-Thomas herself, and modelled by Tafta residents.

Jane Linley-Thomas shared her thoughts on working with us to highlight the life stories of Tafta elders.  “I have been passionate about collecting stories for many years,” she said.  “By sharing our stories we not only hold space for them, we also allow others to form a deeper connection with us.

“Older people hold so much wisdom and experience,” she said. “Forgotten and unheard, feeling unseen and undervalued, our elders are actually the shiny rhinestones on society’s belt.”

ReJoyce Collection a perfect fit

Linley-Thomas added that she felt it would be a perfect fit to use the ReJoyce Collection as inspiration, allowing fashion and stories to collide. Launched in memory of her late Gran Joyce, the collection is a playful collection of preloved fashion and accessories.

“Over 30 elders auditioned for the show, sharing some of their life stories, reading poetry, singing and dancing. From there, we selected 9 ladies and 3 gentlemen to proceed onto a wardrobe fitting. The event on 27 October will be a mix of music, story-telling and a live fashion show starring these precious elders,” said Linley-Thomas.

Fashion, fun and festivity

Tafta CEO, Femada Shamam encourages supporters to celebrate the organisation’s 65th anniversary.  “The evening promises to be one of fashion, fun and festivity as we share the life stories of our very own elder residents in the most spectacular way,” she said.

“On arrival, guests will be treated to starters and welcome drinks, followed by the runway show, a buffet-style dinner and a dance floor to close the night. Bring your friends and family to celebrate with us. We look forward to sharing this moment with you!”

Tickets at R500 per person are available online. Seats are limited so be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible. For more information, please contact Tafta on 031 332 3721 or email idpr@tafta.org.za​.