Raising glasses for justice

SISTERS Alison and Jodie Pollock and Jemma and Disa Tribe are holding a cocktail party to help with the rehabilitation of former North Ugandan child soldiers.

Through a partnership with Diggies Café, the newly formed group VIBE will aim to encourage young people to raise funds and awareness for the cause.

The group’s spokesperson, Jemma Tribe, said she expected the cocktail party to be a strong starting point for the initiative.

“This particular issue that is taking place in Uganda is something that all of us have been following very closely for the last couple of years so it made sense that it be the first thing we put our energy into and raise money for,” Ms Tribe said.

“We see this as a great opportunity to do our bit and help with the relief effort.”

The event is being hosted by Diggies in North Wollongong on July 17 and the girls are hoping to make the event something that enlightens as well as entertains.

“We will be showing a short DVD presentation to inform people of why they are there, (with) live drawing and musical displays,” Ms Tribe said, adding that people will also have the opportunity to purchase special armbands to remind them to spread awareness among their family and friends.

“We would really like to see others come forward who can offer their energy and time to the cause.

“We are all of the opinion that while you can’t do everything, you can certainly do something.”

Many children are captured by rebels in Uganda, before being abused and forced to fight against government soldiers and their own npeople. The country’s rebel army is largely comprised of children.