PIERRE Venter-Maher has been in the entertainment industry for just over 20 years, a far cry from his initial career choice.
Serving as a member of the South African Police Force, he gained valuable insight into life.
“I learnt lessons, which I wouldn’t have learnt anywhere else and for that I am grateful,’’ says Venter-Maher.
His love for music and radio, from an early age, led him into the entertainment world where he now entertains and infotains thousands of people through Durban Youth Radio.
His voice is easily recognisable from numerous radio and TV adverts as well as being the voice and face of many events around South Africa.
He is an inspirational speaker and team development specialist with one of the leading development firms in the country.
Venter-Maher has always been one to stand up for what’s right and represent those who cannot help themselves, and this includes animals.
“Animals don’t have a voice and need compassionate and dedicated people to help them,’’ says Venter-Maher.
He didn’t think twice when asked to be ambassador for the Under an African Sky 2017 calendar campaign.
Under an African Sky (UAAS) is a voluntary organisation started by Compass Medical Waste Services eight years ago.
Over the years the committee of 10 Compass staff volunteers have raised R1.3 million for animal welfare through their calendar campaign. The 2017 calendar is entitled “Reflections of Africa”, features South Africa’s wildlife and their reflections in water and is endorsed by Venter-Maher.
When Venter-Maher and his wife, Wendy, had children they designed a family crest that has an inscription which translates to “for our children”.
“As a couple we want to leave a legacy and make a difference for the generations to follow us and this includes playing our role in the conservation of the earth and all of its living assets. Animals and wildlife are a massive part of these assets.
“We teach our children not to destroy the world, and to respect all living things that inhabit it. We also serve unofficially on many humanitarian organisations, quietly trying to make a difference,” says Venter-Maher.
The A2 UAAS wall calendar sells for R180, excluding postage, while the CD size desk calendar, comprising the same photographs, sells for R60.
To order your calendar, phone Dianne Reddy on 031 267 9700, email orders@underanafricansky.co.za or visit www.underanafricansky.co.za.
All proceeds from the calendar will once again be donated to Crow for the rescue, release and rehabilitation of wild animals.
Over the past six years, over R915 000 of the R1.3 million raised has gone to Crow to assist them with the work they do for orphaned and injured wild animals. - Supplied.
