The Society for Animals in Distress (SAID) has received unexpected opportunities and a powerful new partnership that will help it amplify its efforts in South Africa and beyond.
It all began when Chery South Africa approached the society for an interview on Women’s Day, celebrating women making a positive impact in South Africa. During the conversation, Meg Harvey, CEO of SAID, had the privilege of showcasing the incredible work being done at SAID. This led to an invitation from Chery South Africa and Chery International to attend their User Summit in Wuhu, China, fully sponsored by Chery.
At the summit, SAID was introduced to a global audience and Meg was honoured to represent the organisation on an international stage. More than just a recognition of their work, this event marked the beginning of an exciting new collaboration, with Chery expressing a strong interest in partnering with them to create meaningful change.
While in China, Meg was invited to emcee two major events and to represent South Africa with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The highlight of this experience was the opportunity to stand alongside world leaders such as Dame Jenny Shipley, the 36th Prime Minister of New Zealand, and Ban Ki-Moon, the 8th Secretary General of the United Nations, as well as Chery executives. “I had no idea that this experience would provide such a profound moment of representing South Africa on the global stage,” says Meg.
Robotic dog
“During the summit, we were also introduced to Argos, a remarkable robotic dog designed with cutting-edge technology. Argos not only performs typical robotic tasks like taking pictures and following commands, but it also has the unique ability to provide companionship and entertainment for those unable to own a dog. We were fascinated by how Argos can foster connection, and we hope that, one day, we’ll be able to own one ourselves. With Argos, we envision bringing a fun and interactive educational experience to schools, helping to engage children in animal welfare in an innovative way,” says Meg.
Donation
Upon their return to South Africa, Chery South Africa invited SAID to the launch of the Chery Foundation South Africa. At this event, they generously gifted the organisation R10,000, and WesBank, their financing partner, matched the donation. This was just the beginning – Chery has invested R1,000,000 into the foundation and will contribute an additional R150 for every Chery car sold in South Africa.
“Chery’s commitment to social responsibility and their desire to partner with us for a brighter future are truly inspiring. We’re excited about the potential to make a significant impact through this partnership, and we encourage anyone in the car market to consider purchasing a Chery vehicle. “Your purchase will not only provide you with a reliable, stylish, eco-conscious and safe means of transportation, but it will also help support meaningful change across South Africa. Please email me at meg@animalsindistress.org.za if you would like to purchase a Chery and I will put you in contact with the best!”
Partnerships
Beyond the summit, the trip and partnership provided a wealth of opportunities to network and build relationships with notable South African celebrities like actor Mondli Makhoba and singer Loyiso Bala who are passionate about making a difference. “I am excited to announce that Mondli Makhoba will be co-authoring a series of animal welfare-themed children’s books with us, helping us reach new audiences with our message,” says Meg excitedly.
“We also opened the door to a meaningful collaboration with The Blessed Generation Foundation, an organisation committed to uplifting children in South Africa. In the new year, we will work together to deliver school shoes and animal welfare education to 90,000 children, which will make a significant impact in their lives,” says Meg. “If you would like to contribute to this initiative by donating school shoes, we are now a collection point for donations. Please label them for Meg’s attention, and we will ensure that they reach the children who need them most.”
