VICTORIA, B.C., (Songhees, xʷsepsəm and W̱SÁNEĆ territories), July 30, 2025 – The Simon Keith Foundation announces the official performer lineup and a limited release of additional tickets for the first-ever Heart of Gold Gala and Concert, taking place August 23, 2025, at the Victoria Conference Centre.
The evening features a lineup of star performers, including Vonzell Solomon, an internationally acclaimed vocalist known for her powerful stage presence; Matt Mauser, whose heartfelt and moving performances have captivated audiences worldwide; and Pia Toscano, a dynamic and celebrated vocal powerhouse. Musical entertainment continues with the high-energy Rhapsody Orchestra, the traditional Celtic flair of The Scottish Pipers, and the vibrant, interactive stylings of The London Essentials.
Hosted by Ron MacLean (Hockey Night in Canada) and Jason Pires, Victoria-born co-anchor of Global News Morning, the Heart of Gold Gala and Concert will raise critical funds to help young transplant recipients return to active, healthy lives, and shine a spotlight on the importance of organ donation.
“There’s a common belief that an organ transplant is a cure, a solution that restores life to normal,” says Simon Keith, founder of The Simon Keith Foundation. “But really, it’s the beginning of everything. Through this event, we stand beside transplant recipients and their families to support their journeys, not just financially, but with mentorship, compassion, and advocacy.”
In response to a strong community interest, The Simon Keith Foundation has released a limited number of additional individual tickets that are now available for purchase. Those unable to attend can still show their support by donating at www.simonkeith.com/foundation.
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Background:
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Presenting Sponsors: Mallett Sports LLC, The Engelstad Foundation
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In Partnership Sponsors: Fisgard Asset Management, Alpine Group, Victoria Truss, The Khazzam Family, Peter and Ali Gustavson
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Red Carpet Sponsors: Exact, Weathervane Investments, The Golin Family, The Sticky Wicket, McAdams Foundation, RBC Cafferky Private Wealth, Capital Electric, Donate Life Canada, Pearlman Lindholm, Maxxam Insurance, Strathcona Hotel
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Media sponsors: CHEK News, The Q, and Times Colonist
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Official Wine Sponsor: Haywire
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Official Transportation Sponsor: LA Limousines
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Official Insurance Provider: HSM Insurance
About Simon Keith
Simon Keith C.M. is a trailblazer in the world of sports and organ donation advocacy. In 1986, he became the first athlete in the world to play a professional sport after undergoing a heart transplant. He later received a second heart and kidney transplant in 2019. His incredible journey, spanning nearly four decades, has inspired people worldwide and led to his appointment to the Order of Canada in 2022.
In 2012, he founded The Simon Keith Foundation, which provides financial support to young transplant recipients and raises awareness for organ donation. To date, the Foundation has raised millions of dollars, supported hundreds of families, and funded scholarships and life-changing opportunities for children across North America.
About The Simon Keith Foundation
The Simon Keith Foundation helps youth who have received life-saving organ transplants return to healthy, active lives. In addition to covering critical non-medical expenses, the Foundation drives public awareness around organ donation.
Learn more at www.thesimonkeithfoundation.com.
To register as an organ donor in Canada: blood.ca/organs-tissues
To register as an organ donor in the United States: registerme.org
Media Contacts:
Masami Teramachi | tartanbond
(250) 216-0900 | Masami.Teramachi@tartanbond.com
Ian Klitsie | The Simon Keith Foundation
(250) 883-8787 | ian@thesimonkeithfoundation.com
