Johannesburg - The South African Red Cross Society has named Princess Charlene of Monaco as its patron.
“With her ties to South Africa, she decided to get involved with Red Cross. We couldn’t have wished for anyone better. We are excited she is on board,” the body’s chief executive, Derick Naidoo said.
Naidoo and chairwoman Connie Motshumi were invited to a Red Cross Ball hosted by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene in Monte Carlo last week. Before the ball, the couple met the princess to outline the challenges facing the organisation.
“She commended Red Cross for being one of the most responsive organisations when it comes to disaster-relief programmes and maintaining peace in war-torn countries,” Naidoo said.
The Princess’s late mother-in-law, Princess Grace was president of Monaco Red Cross.
Naidoo said Princess Charlene’s role would be to create awareness here and abroad of the organisation.
The Red Cross is in constant need of financial assistance to enable it to carry out its voluntary work.
SATURDAY STAR