Dust rose softly against the dramatic silhouette of the Hawequa Mountains as boots met gravel and glasses lifted under the late-summer sky. On 28 February, Dunstone Country Estate transformed into a stage where Western glamour met generosity, as The Wake-Up Call delivered an evening that blended grit, glamour, and giving with unforgettable impact.
Just an hour’s drive from Cape Town, the picturesque wine estate became the canvas for a bold, high-energy gathering dreamed up by South African social media power duo Kiki La Coco and Malcolm Wentzel. What unfolded was more than an event — it was a movement in motion.
Where Style Met Substance
The Wake-Up Call introduced guests to a western-style luxe experience layered with intention. Live country music drifted across the vineyards. Flame-grilled cocktail bites and flowing wine and Cap Classique set the tone. A curated fashion show added drama and flair. Striking art pieces stood poised for bidding.
But beneath the aesthetic appeal lay purpose.
“This was one unforgettable night where purpose met power,” Wentzel shared. “In the busyness of life, it’s easy to forget what really matters. This evening created space to reflect on the legacy we’re building. It’s not about doing more — it’s about doing better.”
Every element of the evening echoed that sentiment.
A Setting Designed for Impact
Situated at the foot of the majestic Hawequa Mountains, Dunstone Country Estate offered a setting that felt almost cinematic. Known for its guesthouse, bistro-style restaurant and art gallery, the estate’s creative soul complemented the evening’s carefully curated flow.
The guest journey unfolded as a progression through the estate, accompanied by live music. Attendees arrived at the manor house where fire-grilled snacks and welcome drinks were served. From there, they were guided to the fashion show and official welcome.
Dinner was presented on the veranda overlooking the pool, vineyards and mountains — a breathtaking backdrop for the evening’s speakers and the highly anticipated charity auction.
Star-Studded Insights and Soulful Sound
The programme featured compelling conversations and standout performances.
Master NLP coach and author Michelle Israel delivered her signature high-energy, honest and often humorous insights, challenging attendees to slow down, choose meaning over momentum, and live intentionally.
Anita Lloyd, known for her presence on The Real Housewives reality television show, shared reflections on authenticity, legacy and how individuals choose to show up for others.
Country singer Johan Casey set the emotional tone for the evening, his soulful sound weaving seamlessly into the Western-luxe atmosphere.
Art With a Cause
Art lovers found themselves at the heart of a powerful charity auction. Premier artists including Anton Smit, Laura Jamieson and William Sweetlove showcased works that invited guests to invest in beauty while giving back.
All funds raised during The Wake-Up Call were directed toward uplifting conditions at Pioneer House, a care home for the elderly in Vanderbijlpark — ensuring that the evening’s impact extended far beyond the dance floor.
The Movement Behind the Moment
The Wake-Up Call is an initiative of The FKN Army, the non-profit founded by Kiki La Coco and Malcolm Wentzel in 2022. Built on compassion, action and generosity, the movement leverages the duo’s combined social media following of over 3 million people and a community exceeding 50 000 members.
Their mission has sparked numerous impactful partnerships and even led to the development of an app supporting their initiatives. But at its core, the FKN Army remains rooted in one simple belief: kindness in action.
“The FKN Army community is more than just a following — it’s a family,” said Wentzel. “It’s people who believe in standing together and making a tangible difference.”
On 28 February in Wellington, that belief came alive — in boots, in bids, in brave conversations and in the quiet power of collective generosity.
And for one extraordinary evening, Western luxury burned bright with conscience.
