At the Beekman Group, we believe that true innovation and progress are driven by people – by the hearts, hands and hopes of those who shape our world. That’s why our commitment goes beyond business. We proudly support Down Syndrome South Africa (DSSA) because building a better future means standing alongside every member of our communities, celebrating diversity and creating opportunities for all to thrive.
Our partnership with DSSA has grown steadily since 2018, built on shared values, genuine connection, advocacy for inclusion and support for families across the country. This year, we were honoured to have two key moments reaffirm just how meaningful that journey has been.
World Down Syndrome Day with DSSA and Max
This year, we were honoured to support DSSA and participate in the World Down Syndrome Day Buddy Walk, held on 21 March 2025. More than just an event, the Buddy Walk is a celebration of joy, community and inclusion, one we are lucky to be part of.
Our life-sized mascot, Max Relax, was there in full swing and it’s safe to say he stole the show. In a heartfelt thank-you letter, DSSA and Down Syndrome Association Tshwane (DSAT) shared how Max’s lively presence brought “boundless excitement and joy” to their crowd.
Whether it was teaching the crowd the now-famous Max Dance, posing for dozens of photos or simply being part of the fun, Max helped create a vibrant atmosphere of togetherness, one filled with unity and laughter, but the unforgettable joy is what we’ll remember most.
And while DSSA thanked us, we feel that the gratitude flows both ways. It is a privilege to be welcomed into such a vibrant and inspiring space and to be part of a community that consistently demonstrates, time and again, what inclusion truly looks like in action.
A Longstanding Partnership with DSSA Built on Shared Values
Our journey with Down Syndrome South Africa began in 2018 and has since become a partnership we truly cherish. In March, DSSA’s official magazine featured “Jordan’s Story: The Beekman Group’s Personal and Corporate Commitment.” highlighting the inspiring journey of Jordan, grandson of our Resorts Executive, Tony Hazel.
Jordan is more than a member of the DSSA community, he’s an inspiring ambassador. His story reflects the deep personal connections that drive our social impact. For Tony, seeing his grandson celebrated in this way was, in his words, “simply overwhelming.”
Our support extends across our regional footprint through:
- Awareness sticker campaigns across our head office and our 40+ resorts in Southern Africa.
- Annual participation in World Down Syndrome Day (March 21st) and National Down Syndrome Awareness Day (October 20th).
- Fun, inclusive initiatives like ‘Rock Your Socks.’
- Continued backing of DSSA’s Buddy Walks alongside DSAT.
Beekman’s Commitment to DSSA Continues
As a leading hospitality brand, the Beekman Group recognises that scale comes with responsibility. Our mission goes beyond delivering exceptional holidays, we’re building a legacy of compassion, innovation and inclusive growth through initiatives like Beekman Cares.
The thanks we received from DSSA mean the world to us, but the real gift is being part of their journey. Thank you to DSSA, DSAT, and every family and individual we’ve connected with. You’ve welcomed us into your community and, in doing so, shown us what it truly means to lead with empathy and purpose.
