November 2024
Fight for the Forgotten (FFTF) held their first ever event to support their mission of providing a safe and dignified place for the displaced Batwa people of Uganda and surrounding tribal communities within which they can heal, grow, and thrive. The event was held at the idyllic Lake Austin Spa Resort, which provided the perfect backdrop for a successful event. The event started lakeside with a harpist performance, light bites, and socializing. The sounds of traditional African drumming drew guests up to the spa lawn where they had the opportunity to enjoy sushi and NADC burgers from Michelin star Chef Phillip Franklin Lee. Justin Wren, founder of FFTF and “The Big Pygmy” himself shared his heartfelt story of how living with the Batwa people saved him and all FFTF had done to repay that kindness. What followed was an inspiring paddles up that raised money for everything from a cultural center to a maternity ward for the Batwa people. Venue and food generously donated by Lake Austin Spa Resort and Chef Phillip Franklin Lee.
Fight for the Forgotten Raised: $292,000*
*Thanks to the incredible generosity of the attendees and an amazing matching opportunity, the seeds of change planted at the event will become “Waves of Change” in the form of over $8 million in matching funds!
Click here for a video
Photos by Carrie Hall
