The Tax Free World Association (TFWA) event, TFWA 2023, was not just about business deals and networking; it also showcased the power of giving back and making a difference. WiTR+ (Women in Travel Retail Plus) took center stage by organizing a heartwarming fundraising event at Diageo's picturesque Majeic Beach venue, creating an opportunity to support the Koma Karanth Foundation.
The Koma Karanth Foundation, led by actor, producer, writer, humanitarian, and comedian Karanth, focuses on building a safe and supportive community for women and children. Their initiatives encompass constructing homes, establishing a tutoring college, providing free school lunches for tribal children, offering free transportation for schools, ensuring access to clean water for tribal villages, setting up typhoon shelters, and empowering single mothers to run their businesses independently.
At the heart of this initiative was a target to raise €15,000, but the event surpassed all expectations by doubling that amount. Sarah Branquinho, founder member and Chair of WiTR+, expressed her gratitude for the incredible support from attendees and sponsors.
The event was made possible thanks to the generous contributions of sponsors, including Diageo Global Travel, Victoria's Secret, and Tumi. Notably, Victoria's Secret contributed €12,000, effectively doubling the fundraising efforts and underscoring the brand's commitment to social responsibility. A symbolic giant cheque was presented to the charity, symbolizing the significant impact that charitable initiatives can have in the world of duty-free and travel retail.