Internationally acclaimed DJ and music producer Nkosinathi Maphumulo, better known around the world as Black Coffee, once again used his influence and success to give back in a big way. The Grammy award-winning DJ and philanthropist hosted his annual Black Coffee Foundation charity dinner at Daytona in Melrose, where stars, business leaders and supporters came together for a night of purpose.
According to City Press, the elegant black-tie event had one main goal: to raise funds for Christmas groceries, back-to-school support, and long-term community upliftment. Black Coffee explained that one of the reasons he started the Black Coffee Foundation was to make sure that as his career grew, he could help pull others up too.
He gave a heartfelt speech, urging everyone in the room to give sincerely. He reminded guests that countless children and families across South Africa need support, especially those growing up in environments similar to his own childhood.
“I am standing here representing all the kids who grew up in similar environments in South Africa; kids who don’t have a voice … kids who are not seen by the world.”
Reflecting on his journey, he shared how far he and his family have come, saying:
“In my growth as an artist and as a human, I often look back and think how far l’ve come, and how far my family has come.”
Maphumulo also highlighted that he is where he is today because people believed in him and stood by him. He encouraged guests to do the same — not just for people they know, but also for strangers who need help.
“I am asking you to do the same for a kid you don’t know, for a family without a roof, because life did its thing on them,” he said.
Last year’s charity dinner raised more than R3 million, and Black Coffee hoped to surpass that this year. While the final total is still rising, the auction alone brought in more than R960 000. Items donated to the foundation — including art, jewellery and rare alcohol — sold for impressive amounts. Two art pieces by renowned artist Nelson Makamo sold for R200 000 and R350 000. A 40-year-old bottle of Johnnie Walker went for R100 000, a bottle of Vilafonté Series C sold for more than R21 000, and a ring also fetched R100 000.
In total, nearly R1 million was raised on the night. The event also launched a 2025 “gift of sight” partnership that will provide glasses and free surgeries for children in need.
The sold-out dinner saw 200 guests attending, with ticket prices ranging from R3 500 to R15 000. It was an evening filled with generosity, inspiration and the powerful reminder that when one person rises, they can lift many others with them.
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