Gilbert Tuhabonye dances to thunderous applause after fundraising goals area not only reached but exceeded. The goal of the evening was to raise enough money to bring clean water to two more villages in Burundi.
A sold-out crowd gathered on February 28, 2025, at the W Hotel in downtown Austin for the Gazelle Foundation’s annual Spring For The Water Gala to hear Gilbert Tuhabonye share a first-person account of his recent trip to Burundi with his wife Triphine and oldest daughter.
The evening was emceed by Dr. Chad Whited, Vice President of the Gazelle Foundation Board of Directors. Whited spoke about what challenges exist, why the Gazelle Foundation is uniquely qualified to do this work, what progress is being made, and how generous supporters can spread health, hope, and opportunity by way of clean water.
Progress and Health Outcomes Tied to Clean Water
Gazelle Foundation Co-Founder Gilbert Tuhabonye shared personal stories about growing up in Burundi and his pride in seeing what the water systems built by the Gazelle Foundation mean to communities. He says, “Seeing the water projects were incredible with water flowing from the taps. I reflect on the beauty and lives transformed.”
Short videos showed real-life stories that captured the raw and unpolished realities, genuine struggles, victories, and impact of the Gazelle Foundation’s work in Burundi. Watch the video >>
How We tackle the Water Crisis In Burundi
Peter Rauch, Gazelle Foundation co-founder and Board President, spoke to the hard fact that the death rate of children under age 5 is higher than it should be. Eighty-five percent of the 13.2 million Burundians live in rural communities and are the hardest hit by these realities.
These dire statistics drive our efforts to get clean water to as many people as possible. He explains, “Our guiding principle is ‘Will this transform lives in Burundi?’ That’s what drives our impact.”
Rauch spoke about the power of donations and the short distance between donations made and building clean water infrastructure. Learn more
Gravity-fed water systems collect water at the source and distribute it across the hilly landscape with multiple tap stands . Water is given to anyone regardless of where they live and their background.
Joy and Faith Bring More Clean Water to Burundi
Natalie Brown, Gazelle Foundation Board Member and Gala Co-chair, introduced Gilbert Tuhabonye to the audience. She shared memories of her sons being coached by Gilbert at St. Andrews Episcopal School, volunteering as a team parent for five years, and witnessing how Gilbert’s nurturing supportiveness and indomitable spirit inspired her sons to be the best version of themselves on and off the field. She also shared what Gilbert, Triphine, and the Tuhbonye family mean to her family.
During the emotional introduction, Natalie shared that she loved working with and supporting Gilbert because his joy and enthusiasm are so contagious. She says, “He is proof that the work of a few – or even just one – can make this world, our world, a better place.”
After Gilbert took the stage, a live auction, and a dedicated give with a surprise announcement of a $50,000 match grant took center stage.
Our specific fundraising goal was for the construction of two water systems.
Thanks to our table sponsors, auction donors, and supporters, we exceeded our fundraising goal and raised an all-time amount of more than $250K to construct sustainable, clean water systems for two communities in rural Burundi. Because we surpassed our fundraising goals, we will be able to build even more water systems this year than we expected.
Inspiring Hope for Burundi Through Water and Celebrating Through Dance
The evening concluded with music from Burundi and Gilbert dancing and energizing the crowd.
With smiles from ear to ear, Gazelle Foundation Co-Founder Gilbert shared from the stage, “When [clean] water comes to a village, it’s a celebration of life.”
Soon, we'll share updates and photos from the water systems funded by the 2025 Spring For The Water Gala, so everyone can follow along and see the progress we are making together.
We are grateful to Spring For The Water Gala Committee Chairs Natalie Brown and Paula McCaul and Auction Team Lead Suellen Carson for everything they did to make this event a success!
View candid photos of the event courtesy of Liz Kreutz and photos from the Photobooth. If you didn’t have the chance to make a donation at the event, there’s still time to make a tax-deductible donation.
Thank YOU to Our INCREDIBLE Sponsors
Spring for the Water Table sponsors and partners include Olamaie, Diamonds Direct, Encore, The W Austin, Karavel Shoes, University of Texas Golf Club and Benevolent Care Home Health Care.