It all began on 11th March 2009 when Dr Harold and I were invited to meet with the Consul General of the Netherlands, Mr De Waal, in Cape Town.  During this incredibly delightful meeting, Mr De Waal suggested that the YOELL beaders create a special little ribbon for the guests to wear at the Queens Day reception to be held on 29th April 2009. 

When I told the beaders of this opportunity they were so honoured to be a part of such a prestigious event.  In the coming weeks, excitedly the beaders turned their creative minds and hands to create an orange bow with the Dutch flag beaded in the centre of it. 

The evening of the 29th April finally arrived and with 500 bows I arrived at the Queens Day reception.  Each guest as they arrived was given a bow to attach to their lapel, and told of MKI and the YOELL empowerment project.  When the Consul General made his speech, he also extended his thanks to MKI for making these bows.  It was the most wonderful evening and I was so very proud and honoured to represent MKI at this event and of what the beaders had achieved.

From the small seed planted it flourished and blossomed to see 500 guests each wearing a little orange ribbon, raising awareness of the Medical Knowledge Institute and empowering the local community in honour of the Queen!