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BIG-HEARTED South African women produced a pool-side parade of vibrant colours at the Elite Seef Residence & Hotel to raise funds for local charities in Bahrain, writes Mai Al Khatib.
The South African Divas, a social networking group formed two years ago, entertained families and friends with their elaborate fashion show. It included a belly dancing act in between sets, a miniature bazaar and a raffle draw filled with fun prizes.
The Divas were founded by Elizabeth Smuts and a friend to bring South African women together in Bahrain. The ladies usually hold informal gatherings to discuss different ideas and make friends but decided it was time to showcase their talents in support of good causes.
Mrs Smuts, 40, head of human resources and recruitment at LUX Actuaries & Consultants, said: “While we could easily do something like this in our own country we wanted to focus on Bahrain because this island offers so much for us. We are happy in Bahrain and enjoy the life here.”
The Victorian-inspired fashion show featured 11 Diva members dressed in the designs of Thelna Esterhuizen. The 46-year-old from Adliya is known for her fashionable creations labelled Est in South Africa.
She said: “Fashion has always been my passion and since I have moved to Bahrain I started designing clothing. The idea behind the fashion show was to integrate Bahraini women and South African women while also showcasing the talents that the Divas have.
“What I especially loved about the show was that all our models were of different ages and sizes so that the public can see that my designs are not just for size zero women. I cater for everyone.”
The Divas strutted around the poolside to upbeat sounds, playfully interacting with the crowd in fancy head pieces, bold printed outfits in a variety of fabrics and textures along with fun accessories.
The stage was decorated with colourful bird cages, crowns and candles. Even the bazaar featured vintage-style jewellery, beautiful floral tea sets, cake stands and handbags.
Sheila Kurvers, 37, who lives in Amwaj Islands, an entrepreneur that sells porcelain tea sets, handbags and bed linen, said: “The ladies asked me to display my products as it fit with their theme. The fashion show had a very intimate atmosphere. The entourage, the dresses, the ladies, the food, everything fitted the theme. I liked their hat decorations and could tell that they really put a lot of thought into it and it was all for a very admirable cause.”
Money raised by the event will go towards the Be Free Centre in New Zinj which helps victims of abuse and the Dream Society, which grants the wishes of children with terminal illnesses and debilitating diseases at Salmaniya Medical Complex. The amount raised will be announced at a later date.
