Telethon Solidarite 2021:   Merging entertainment and fund-raising to bring people together   |17 September 2021

(L to r) Ambassador Victor, Mr Savy and Mr Lionnet during the press conference yesterday (Photo: Jude Morel)

In the spirit of unity and solidarity, the arts, media and business communities have joined hands to organise a major national “soul uplifting” entertainment event for the people of Seychelles, as the festive season draws near and everyone looks forward to a brighter new year.

The ‘Telethon Solidarite 2021’ is to be held on November 27 and Sunday November 28 during the afternoon, under the motto ‘Annou Viv Konman Frer’. With a line-up of 150 artists, musicians, poet, fashion models, visual arts and comedians, the virtual extravaganza promises to be entertaining for all. 

Produced by TGV Production of Ambassador for Culture Patrick Victor and Island Music Seychelles of Gilles Lionnet, the event is being organised in collaboration with the National Arts Council (Nac), the Red Cross Society of Seychelles (RCSS) and the two local broadcasters – SBC and Telesesel – are key partners in getting the masses involved in the event.

Mr Lionnet explained that the event is expected to cost between R600,000 and R700,000. It comprises two components, the first of which is that the event is to be sponsored by the private sector, or otherwise, businesses and individuals. Business organisations are not being asked for financial sponsorship, but rather, to pay for commercial spots which the organising committee has purchased from SBC and Telesesel at a slightly higher price as their contributions.

Apart from being a joie de vivre event, the telethon will also serve as a fund-raising platform in solidarity with the children of Seychelles and Madagascar.

The role of the RCSS therefore is to maximise the exposure and visibility offered by the platform, so as to raise funds for Seychelles children, as well as those from Madagascar.

Presently, the methods proposed are through telephone donations, or through the sale of tickets.

With the sale of tickets will also be a lottery, although these finer details are yet to be finalised.

The event will also be broadcasted live on Radiosesel.com, based in the UK, and Youtube.

“I am launching an appeal to the business community to join us in this effort to give our people a new inspiration, and with the festive season it is a great opportunity to advertise your products and services, and let’s do it for Seychelles,” Mr Lionnet stated.

The organising committee is hoping the event will generate enough for all involved to receive a small portion of remuneration for their efforts.

They are however confident that they will raise the necessary amount, and within the timeframe.

According to Mr Victor, over 60 artists have already confirmed their participation, and on the day of the event, each of those artists will perform live one after another, to be broadcasted live on the two TV platforms as well.

Artists will be interpreting art and music around the theme of solidarity, and some will perform covers of such songs.

“If we want to promote our culture, our art, and even if we wish to promote our country, the time for solidarity has struck. There are many initiatives that have spurred in just over a year among artists, and even others who support artists, in the promotion of our arts and culture,” Mr Victor added.

Mr Victor also reiterated the call by Mr Lionnet to the public, to also display solidarity and make a contribution towards the good cause.

Also present during the press conference yesterday was the chief executive of Nac, Jimmy Savy.

Laura Pillay