Update on our Gala and how we will make an impact in 2025

At Create Lasting Change, our mission is to raise awareness for causes where little to none exists. One of the ways we share our message and update you on our work is through our Galas.

This year, however, we have had to review our plans in light of urgent needs that have arisen. We will not be hosting our Gala on November 15th.

The reason is an urgent and critical need: Bubu’s Animal Haven in Namibia. This sanctuary takes in and rehabilitates a variety of wildlife, including ostriches, porcupines, tortoises, and more, as well as cats, dogs, and African grey parrots. The founder, Reni, is being forced to move the sanctuary off its current land by October 15th. She owns a new piece of land, but it is completely undeveloped—at this moment, only one enclosure has just begun construction, and funds are urgently needed to continue the work and build the others.

Furthermore, the situation in Namibia has become truly devastating. A wildfire in Etosha Pan, Namibia’s flagship conservation area, has already destroyed roughly 34% of the park. Tragically, countless animals have perished: rhinos, giraffes, and elephants among them, as well as hundreds of smaller animals that cannot escape the flames fast enough. Beyond this visible loss, the fire is also decimating the biodiversity of insects and other vital species that sustain Etosha’s delicate ecosystem. For those of you planning to join me in Namibia, you will know how often I have spoken about Etosha as a magical part of the trip—now it is in crisis.

Faced with these two urgent and devastating situations—the forced relocation of the sanctuary and the catastrophic fire—we have chosen to repurpose the several thousand euros that would have been spent hosting the Gala and send those funds directly to the sanctuary and rescue efforts.

Gala 2025 at the Chiemsee – A Night of Impact and Community

Our mission has always focused on education, and today, the need for it is more critical than ever. We’re also seeing increased demand for spay and neuter programs due to the economic challenges facing many communities in Namibia and South Africa.

At this year’s Gala, we are proud to introduce the incredible work of Bubu’s Haven—a brand-new safe space being built from the ground up, providing protection, healing, and hope for animals in crisis in Namibia.

We’ll also be sharing an update on our initiative, Voices of Vulnerability. This project explores the connection between animal abuse and violence against children. We’ve found compelling evidence, and we’re committed to continuing this vital work to help create the urgent change needed.

You’ll also hear from Belinda and Rudi, who will share the daily challenges they face in their incredible work with the Cape SPCA — from fighting illegal dogfighting and promoting education to providing vital spay and neuter programs, and even going to court to seek justice.

We’re also proud to welcome Jörn and Patrick from Small Beings, who will talk about their mission to change how we see and protect our environment — and how small steps can lead to meaningful change for a better future.

One of the most powerful moments of the evening will be the premiere of our new documentary by filmmaker Ruben, offering a deeply moving and eye-opening look into the lives of women in South Africa and their reality regarding gender-based violence.

And of course, we’re very much looking forward to enjoying the return of our beloved Elvis Show, sure to bring energy, joy, and connection to the dance floor — and DJ Navid will be right there with us to keep the good vibes going and make sure dancing stays fun all night long.

For everyone who donates, supports, and stands with our mission — this evening is for you—a chance to connect, reflect, and see the incredible impact of your commitment.

Gala-Details

What to Expect

We can’t wait to welcome you to the Chiemsee for an evening filled with meaning, music, and the movement we’re building together.