Sun Wish Delivers Life-Changing Communication Device to Employee’s Autistic Son at Carnival City

Sun International’s annual Sun Wish campaign offers all employees the opportunity to make a wish, asking for assistance with important items such as education, health, safety and food security. Since inception of the campaign in 2019, thousands of wishes have been received and granted.

Each year, Sun’s Chief Executive Anthony Leeming selects one wish for the special CE Sun Wish award. This award is intended to make a difference in the life of the employee by granting a wish that goes beyond the normal scope of the initiative.

This year’s wish was granted to a courageous mother seeking help for her young son. Rahab Phoshoko, an tables inspector at Carnival City since July 2015, made the wish for her son, Zani Phoshoko, who is facing significant communication challenges. Thanks to the compassion and support of Sun International, Zani’s story is about to take a remarkable turn.

Zani was born a healthy baby in 2021. However, as time passed, Rahab noticed his speech was delayed, prompting her to seek guidance from a paediatrician. In 2024, Zani was diagnosed with a hearing problem that required surgery.

“We knew something wasn't right, but nothing could have prepared us for what we heard next – that Zani had lost his hearing. As a parent, hearing those words felt like the ground had shifted beneath me,” said Rahab.

“We were told he would need an operation. Watching my son prepare for surgery, so small yet so strong, was one of the hardest moments of my life. And yet, it was also the beginning of our journey toward understanding – not just his needs, but his incredible resilience.”

The surgery was successful, but it was clear Zani needed additional support to catch up with his speech and delays in other developmental areas.

His family, faced with the reality of mounting medical bills and the financial strain of providing therapy, is determined to give Zani the best chance at overcoming his challenges. Rahab shared her heartfelt story, explaining that, at the age of three, Zani has never called her “Mama” or “Dada.” A longing to hear these words fuels her every effort to support him despite the financial difficulties, and to provide a future every child deserves.

“Eight months later, we received another diagnosis: Zani was on the autism spectrum,” said Rahab. “Another wave of emotion. Another chapter we hadn’t anticipated. But this time, it didn't come with fear. It came with clarity – a deeper understanding of who Zani is. His unique way of seeing the world, his sensitivity, his strengths, and yes, even his struggles, began to make sense.

“Autism didn't change who Zani is; it helped us truly see him. Every milestone he reaches, no matter how small, is a victory. Every smile, every sound, every connection is something we celebrate with full hearts.”

The financial burden of therapy weighed heavily on the family, however. Zani’s needs include occupational therapy, neurodevelopment therapy and speech therapy. Recognising these needs, Sun International’s Chief Executive Anthony Leeming selected Zani as the recipient of this year’s CE Sun Wish Award, committing to provide funding for Zani’s therapy and development.

The handover of the award took place at Carnival City on 26 June 2025, marking the beginning of a new journey for Zani. “This journey hasn't been easy. 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,” said Rahab at the ceremony. “I want to thank God for answering my prayers. In addition, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my company, Sun International.

“Thank you for granting my wish, for stepping in during a time of need and providing us with the support that will give Zani the chance to improve, grow, and thrive. Your generosity will make a real lasting impact on his journey. 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.”

Sun International believes in creating moments that matter and changing lives for the better and is proud to be able to play a role in supporting its team.

“One of the greatest gifts is to be able to give back, and impact people’s lives. For this reason, it is an honour to grant Rahab (and Zani) this wish.” said Leeming.

“I know Carnival City looks after each other, and it is important across the group, we all do so,” he said.