Ten years ago, Martin Venter, founder of Val de Vie Estate, envisioned that a residential estate could not only offer an exceptional way of living but also serve as a powerful force for good. Today, that vision is at the heart of the Val de Vie Foundation’s mission, to create A Better Life For All within the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley by fostering sustainable educational development, entrepreneurship programmes and community advancement in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley.
On Tuesday, 28 October, over 120 Val de Vie Estate residents and friends of the Val de Vie Foundation gathered at the Polo Pavilion Ballroom to celebrate this milestone. The afternoon was filled with meaningful conversations, inspiring stories from beneficiaries and moments that reminded us how collective action continues to bring about tangible change, with 15 residents signing up to volunteer with the Val de Vie Foundation.
Val de Vie Estate HOA Chairman Fred Swanepoel shared: “Ten years ago, a vision took shape, one that was bold, generous and human. Martin’s belief was simple, the impact profound. We don’t celebrate an organisation, rather the idea that hope can be built and dignity restored.”
The Val de Vie Foundation’s model has demonstrated that lasting social change starts with intentional design. By investing 1% of developer sales and 2.5% of residents’ monthly levies directly to the Val de Vie Foundation, Val de Vie Estate has established a pioneering approach to community investment, one that ensures giving back is not an afterthought, but a core part of how the estate develops.
Through this sustainable framework, every home sold and every levy paid contributes to initiatives that uplift the vulnerable in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley, with over R50 million invested over the past 10 years. With Nation Builder as an implementation partner and by investing in capacity building, the Val de Vie Foundation ensures that due diligence is prioritised with every funded beneficiary, so that those in need receive the support they deserve.
One of the evening’s heartfelt moments came from Coach André du Toit of the Klapmuts 7’s Tournament, a project supported by the Foundation since 2017: “The Val de Vie Foundation became more than just a sponsor, they became a partner in purpose, a pillar of hope and a friend to our community.”
Over the past decade, the Val de Vie Foundation has not only invested in social development projects but also built lasting relationships with its beneficiaries, enhancing their impact through the passion and volunteerism of Val de Vie Estate residents.
Ryk Neethling, Val de Vie Foundation Trustee and Val de Vie Group: Marketing & Brand Director reflected by saying: “It was quite emotional to see the impact our Foundation has made in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley over the past decade. We are very fortunate to have residents who are passionate about making a difference and remarkable implementation partners within the various communities. May the Foundation continue to grow stronger over the next 10 years.”
As we look ahead, the Val de Vie Foundation continues to strive to A Better Life For All.
