Category: IlalaCares

Over the years, we have had the pleasure of hosting many famous people at Ilala Lodge Hotel, and this month we welcomed  Celtic FC Goalkeeper, Craig Gordon and his girlfriend Summer Harl.  This was Craig’s very first time to Africa and Zimbabwe, and he was blown away by the beauty of our country, and of course, the smiles and hospitality of Zimbabweans.

When we heard that he wanted to come and stay with us, we suggested that we put on a community football event for the schools, as it is not often that someone of Craig’s athletic ability visits Victoria Falls. We were delighted when Craig agreed to put on a small coaching session as one of the #IlalaCares initiatives. On a sunny Saturday afternoon, over 40 children gathered at a local school for some football tricks and inspiration from a world-class footballer – children came from Victoria Falls Primary School, Chamabondo Church Of Christ; Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Baobab Primary School, Jacaranda Montessori – Victoria Falls and Chinotimba Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

The afternoon was a delight for both the children and Craig, and the highlight was a penalty shoot-out where the children, and the coaches, tried to get the ball past Craig. A few balls did manage to make it into the goal which resulted in the crowd erupting with cheers and giggles! Craig had donated some of his balls and kit, which were gratefully received by the children. Craig ended with an inspiring talk, asking the children to keep on practising and enjoying the game, and then there was a delicious football cake for all to enjoy!

Watch the video of the afternoon here.

“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”
― Desmond Tutu

As a family run hotel, Ilala Lodge Hotel has the ability and heart to quickly respond to calls for help and assistance. This past week, we were contacted by Megan, from the wonderful and dynamic organisation, Mummy’s Angels Zimbabwe. With the help of Dr Michael Jeans, Mummy’s Angels Zimbabwe have undertaken to make some positive changes to the Maternity and Paediatric Art & Play therapy ward at Victoria Falls Hospital.  They are going to upgrade the bedding and hospital gowns,  and add new privacy dividers to the wards. We answered this call as best as we could, teaming up with Victoria Falls Rest Camp and donating a fully-laden truckload with our second-hand linen, curtains and mosquito nets to the hospital for their use.