HUGE SUPPORT FOR UNCHAIN OUR CHILDREN AT FUNDRAISING DINNER

A spectacular fundraising event was held Wednesday 28 May 2025 at the Loft at 9 in Menlo Park where the main attractions were Jo Black’s incredible performance, Jojo’s live art creations and an auction of signed items, hunting- and golf packages.  All proceeds went to Unchain Our Children’s operations combatting, preventing and addressing exploitation of children and counter trafficking awareness campaigns.

The venue was packed and guests who attended the evening, some longstanding followers of UOC, and some new names, came to show their support with their presence.

Bianca van Onselen, Financial Director of UOC and Wayne’s wife, opened with prayer after which Wayne thanked Ian, Yvette, Amy and their Team, for the great job they’ve done.

“Normally I would be right in the middle of an operation, hands on and in the process of safeguarding children, but tonight I could sit back and look at the videos, see the big picture, and realize what the impact of Unchain Our Children has been during almost 10 years of combatting child abuse.  Without the constant support of all the Friends of Unchain Our Children, we wouldn’t have been able to accomplish it all.   My heartfelt gratitude towards each and every one who supported us. I thank God, and I thank you.”  Wayne van Onselen, Founder and Executive Director, Unchain Our Children.

The guests were welcomed, and stunning live art was performed by Jojo, an artist known for the special fluorescent paint he used as a medium. No brushes were used, only his hands.  Ultraviolet light was shone on the painting which allowed it to glow.  Another astonishing technique he mastered is the dripping of paint to form the image.  Three of his paintings were auctioned.

The venue’s catering team impressed with a lavish buffet spread of hearty dishes.  Pudding and coffee were served afterwards, and the audience was blessed by lucky draws with great prizes during the evening.

Amy Arnold, UOC’s specialist operative, conducted the evening’s affairs with tremendous skill and flair while George Coulsen, the auctioneer, did a pristine job and his auctioning skills secured the best bids for an array of items, including golf- and hunting packages and signed items.  A signed Jo Black guitar was one of the favorite items.

Whether Jo Black sang or spoke, his deep voice conveyed his passion for life, being humble and grateful, and dependent on God’s grace and mercy.  Music opened not only doors for him but also his beloved wife’s heart! 

His jubilant rendering of Hallelujah, the song that was a turning point in his life had the audience spellbound.

Contact & Discover

Jo Black: https://www.facebook.com/JoBlack8 

Jojo the Artist: https://www.facebook.com/jojo.yoro  and https://www.facebook.com/RawEdgeArt

Loft at 9: https://www.facebook.com/loftatnine 

Support Unchain Our Children: Call Wayne van Onselen: 072 364 8246