In an emotional ceremony held at Carnival City on 26 June 2025, Sun International fulfilled a life-changing wish for one of its own bringing hope to a young child with special needs and deep gratitude to the mother who made the heartfelt request.
Rahab Phoshoko, a tables inspector at Carnival City since 2015, was this year’s recipient of the prestigious Chief Executive Sun Wish Award, a special honour given annually as part of Sun International’s Sun Wish campaign. The award, selected by Chief Executive Anthony Leeming, is granted to one employee each year whose wish stands out for its urgency, compassion, and life-altering potential.
This year, that wish was for Rahab’s three-year-old son, Zani, who faces significant developmental challenges. Born in 2021, Zani’s speech delays led to a 2024 diagnosis of hearing loss, followed by successful surgery and later, an additional diagnosis: autism spectrum disorder.
“This journey hasn’t been easy,” Rahab said through tears at the handover ceremony. “But it has been filled with love, growth, and transformation not just for Zani, but for me too. And none of it would be possible without the support that helped carry us through.”
The CE Sun Wish Award includes funding to support the intensive therapies Zani now requires from speech and occupational therapy to neurodevelopmental care. For Rahab and her family, it means a lifeline during a difficult time.
“I want to thank God for answering my prayers,” she said. “And I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my company, Sun International. Thank you for stepping in during our time of need. You didn’t just give a helping hand you gave a little boy hope, and a mother peace. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”
The Sun Wish campaign, which began in 2019, invites employees across Sun International to submit personal wishes related to health, education, safety, and food security. While many wishes are granted each year, the CE Sun Wish Award is uniquely selected to create long-term impact and inspire unity across the organisation.
“One of the greatest gifts is to be able to give back and impact people’s lives,” said CEO Anthony Leeming. “For this reason, it is an honour to grant Rahab (and Zani) this wish. I know Carnival City looks after each other, and it’s important that across our group, we all do the same.”
For Zani, the journey ahead remains filled with challenges but also with new possibilities. And for Rahab, her son’s milestones no matter how small will now be celebrated with the help of a company that chose to walk beside her.
Sun International remains committed to creating moments that matter, not only for its guests but for its employees and their families.
Carnival City’s Rahab Phoshoko and son, Zani pictured with Bryan O’Connor, Carnival City’s General Manager (left) and Anthony Leeming, Sun International’s CEO