by Simbulele Jezile | Jul 25, 2025 | Campaign, Impact
A few days before her 7th birthday, Carley Rose Meyer from Benoni, Gauteng, went from being a happy, energetic little girl with what her mom thought was a common virus, to being rushed to ICU with dangerously high blood sugar levels.
On 2 July 2025, Carley was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. Overnight, her world—and her family’s—changed.
Where there were once carefree days, there are now insulin injections, sugar checks, strict routines, and the weight of medical decisions far beyond a child’s years. But Carley faces each day with a resilience that has touched the hearts of many.
“Even when I wake her at midnight for insulin, she tells me, ‘Mommy, I’m okay,’” says her mom, Elisabeth Meyer. “She’s the bravest person I know.”
A Bond Like No Other
At home, Carley shares a deep and intuitive bond with her older brother Riley (9), who is autistic. While the world can feel overwhelming for Riley, Carley is his constant—his comfort.
“They have a love that doesn’t need words,” says Elisabeth. “When Carley was in hospital, Riley cried every day. She’s his person.”
As a single mom, Elisabeth is the steady force navigating both children’s unique needs. “It’s a lot,” she admits. “But they’re my everything.”
A Small Machine, A Big Difference
In her search for ways to ease their daily challenges, Elisabeth discovered the Aquazone Ozone H₂O Machine—a natural therapy believed to help regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and support neurological balance. She launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, hoping to raise R25,000.
To her surprise, the goal was reached in just two days.
“I thought the website was broken,” Elisabeth recalls. “Then my phone rang. My mom and sister were crying. We had done it. For the first time that week, I could breathe.”
More than R31,200 has now been raised by just seven donors—including one anonymous champion who gave the campaign its final push.
“To that person: you changed our lives,” says Elisabeth.
Finding Strength in Small Moments
Thanks to the generous support, Carley now uses the Aquazone therapy daily. While not a cure, the treatment offers a glimmer of relief—and hope. The family also believes it may help regulate Riley’s sensory and emotional responses.
“I just want them both to feel like kids again,” says Elisabeth. “To have more days filled with joy than pain.”
When asked why she wanted the machine, Carley simply said:
“Because it will help me feel better.”
For her mother, that was all she needed to hear.
On her seventh birthday, Carley was allowed one special treat—her first sweet bite since her diagnosis. “She savoured every bite of her cupcake,” says Elisabeth. “It was just a cupcake—but to us, it was everything.”
Riley sat beside her the whole time, smiling quietly.
Continuing the Journey
Although the original goal has been reached, the campaign remains open to help cover therapy for Riley, special dietary needs, and ongoing medical expenses for both children.
“With more support,” says Elisabeth, “we can give them what they need to thrive.”
This story has reminded many that compassion often comes from strangers—and that hope can arrive in the smallest of gestures.
In Carley’s words:
“Thank you for helping us. I want to be strong and happy again. I love my brother, and I want him to be okay too.”
And from Riley:
“Thank you for loving my sister. I love her too.”
Help Carley and Riley Continue to Thrive
Your kindness can make all the difference. Visit their BackaBuddy campaign to contribute or share their story:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/carleys-courage-a-story-of-hope-healing
by Simbulele Jezile | Jul 21, 2025 | Campaign, Impact
Cape Dachshund Rescue (CDR), a devoted team of five wonderful women working across the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Garden Route, and Free State, recently raised more than R43,000 in a heartfelt Mandela Day campaign to help their most overlooked rescues—senior dachshunds who’ve lost their families, their homes, and often, their health.
With 92 senior dogs currently in foster care and monthly veterinary expenses exceeding R40,000, this Mandela Day campaign asked South Africans to contribute R67 or more to support dogs who are often deemed “too old to matter.” The response was moving.
“We asked the public to contribute toward our vet bills, which exceed R40,000 a month, and the response was overwhelming,” said a spokesperson from Cape Dachshund Rescue. “Thanks to this campaign, we’ll be able to continue providing essential treatments, surgeries, and comfort to some of the most vulnerable dogs in our care.”
When You’ve Lost Everything, Love Still Finds a Way
Cape Dachshund Rescue, founded in 2014, is entirely foster-based. Each dog is placed in a home environment, not a kennel, where they receive more than just food and medicine—they receive love, stability, and a second chance.
In 2017, CDR launched the Frosty Face Foster Programme, an initiative pairing senior dogs—aged 10 and older—with elderly people between the ages of 60 and 80. Adoption fees are waived, and CDR covers all veterinary expenses for the lifetime of the dog. “It’s companionship without the fear of financial strain,” the team explains. “It’s love without condition.”
These foster stories are deeply personal. One that continues to touch hearts is that of Billy and Aunty Bea.
Billy was nearly euthanized at a local vet before CDR stepped in. He and his sister were rescued, rehabilitated, and eventually Billy was placed with Aunty Bea, an elderly woman living alone.
“He became her world,” the team shares. “She would knit blankets to raise funds for the rescue. Billy followed her everywhere. He was always at her side.”
When Aunty Bea passed, Billy seemed to let go too. He was diagnosed with cancer not long after and was gently put to rest.
“It’s as if he knew she needed him until the very end,” the team reflects. “He waited for her. Then he let go.”
Every Dog Has a Name. Every Life Has Meaning.
The CDR team manages everything—transport, vet appointments, adoptions, and fundraising—while working full-time jobs. None of them receive a salary.
“Everything we do is for the dogs,” they say.
But the pressure is constant. Vet bills continue to climb. Many dogs need urgent procedures—tumour removals, dental surgeries, chronic medication, and special food.
“We do what we can,” the team says, “but some dogs are still waiting for treatments we can’t afford yet. That’s what keeps us up at night.”
Since the Frosty Face Foster Programme began, 191 senior dogs have found loving homes—191 second chances, 191 quiet victories. The joy is found in the small things: paws padding across wooden floors, tails wagging, naps on sunny porches, and the silent comfort of presence.
“We get messages all the time,” the team says. “‘He just climbed into my lap and fell asleep.’ ‘She hasn’t stopped wagging her tail.’ It’s the kind of love that doesn’t need words.”
What Mandela Day Was Always Meant to Be
This month’s R43,000 raised will cover one month of vet care—a month of relief, stability, and rest for the dogs who’ve survived abandonment, illness, and heartbreak.
The funds were raised through Cape Dachshund Rescue’s heartfelt BackaBuddy campaign, which received support from 81 compassionate donors across the country. Their generosity is not just a number—it’s warm meals, critical surgeries, pain relief, and the comfort of knowing these senior dogs are not forgotten.
“We cannot express how grateful we are that our supporters stepped up to the plate like they did in celebration of this Mandela Day. As Mr Mandela said: “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” And at Cape Dachshund Rescue we choose to interpret that as the difference we have all made in the lives of the more than 3000 dogs we have rehomed and the same number or more of humans who have gained a furry friend in the almost 11 years of our existence. We appreciate your generosity and constant support more than we can ever say. Your support makes our work worthwhile. Thank you,” the team says.
Donations for Cape Dachshund Rescue and the Frosty Face Foster Programme are still welcomed on their BackaBuddy campaign link here:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/save-a-frosty-face-for-mandela-day-2025
by Simbulele Jezile | Jul 8, 2025 | Campaign, Join The Team
BackaBuddy is South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, empowering individuals and charities to raise funds for causes that matter. We’re looking for a detail-oriented and compassionate Finance Processing Clerk to join our growing team. This role sits at the heart of our finance operations and donor-facing services, supporting both beneficiaries and donors with accuracy, care, and efficiency.
- Position: Finance Processing Clerk
- Reports to: Finance Manager
- Location: Remote working but preference for Cape Town
- Work hours: Monday – Friday, 8am to 5pm
- Salary: R12 000 per month
- Employment type: 6 months contract
- Start date: ASAP
Key Responsibilities
- Process day-to-day financial transactions including donations, refunds, beneficiary banking details, and payouts.
- Accurately verify, classify, record, and post transactions across relevant systems.
- Reconcile campaign and charity accounts, ensuring all payouts are properly recorded and discrepancies are resolved.
- Investigate and allocate unassigned donations from bank statements and payment gateway reports.
- Respond to internal and external donor/beneficiary queries via our ticketing system within 24 hours.
- Provide daily follow-up on open queries and work toward timely resolution.
- Attend to all donation and payout-related queries in line with BackaBuddy’s customer service policy.
- Prepare and generate financial reports when requested.
- Support the Finance Manager with ad hoc financial tasks and compliance checks.
- Ensure all donation-related activities meet internal policies and external regulatory requirements.
- Actively contribute to the continuous improvement of financial processes, identifying inefficiencies and proposing solutions.
Requirements
- 2–3 years’ experience in a finance support, accounting, or similar role.
- Proficient in banking procedures, reconciliations, and payment systems.
- Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and Google Workspace (Sheets, Drive).
- Excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
- Meticulous attention to detail with strong organisational and prioritisation skills.
- Ability to work independently, take initiative, and thrive in a remote team environment.
- Proven numerical accuracy and sound judgment when resolving financial discrepancies.
- Knowledge of donations and fundraising platforms is advantageous.
- Must have a personal laptop and reliable internet connection.
Ideal Candidate
- A compassionate communicator who thrives in customer-facing roles and finds joy in helping others succeed.
- A detail-driven individual who balances empathy with rigorous compliance and accuracy.
- A natural problem-solver who proactively identifies risks and inefficiencies and proposes actionable solutions.
- A tech-savvy team player comfortable with digital tools, systems, and remote collaboration.
- An adaptable, high-performing individual eager to contribute to a purpose-driven, fast-paced organisation.
What We Value
- Performance: Deliver high-quality work with speed and accuracy.
- Accountability: Own your responsibilities and follow through with professionalism.
- Effectiveness: Solve problems, streamline processes, and communicate clearly.
- Culture: Embody BackaBuddy’s mission and values in every interaction — internally and externally.
How to Apply
Please email your CV and a short cover letter explaining your relevant experience and why you’d be a great fit to [email protected]. While we’d love to respond to every application, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you haven’t heard from us within 2 weeks, please know that we truly appreciate your interest and the time you took to apply.
by Simbulele Jezile | Jul 1, 2025 | Campaign, Featured
Photo credit: Flashlight Pictures
At just 14 years old, talented Imkhitha Joya from Old Crossroads in Nyanga, Cape Town, is rewriting what’s possible for a young girl with big dreams and an even bigger heart. As one of South Africa’s brightest young talents in chess, she’s earned national recognition and international invitations. Now, all she needs is a helping hand to keep her momentum going.
Earlier this year, Imkhitha was crowned South African U14 Girls Chess Champion after finishing undefeated at the Junior Closed Chess Championships. She also swept the Western Cape High Schools U15 Girls section, winning every game with a perfect score of six out of six. Her CHESSA rating now stands at 1811, making her the top-ranked U14 girl and 6th overall among female players in South Africa.
Despite these remarkable achievements, the road has not been easy.
Photo credit: Flashlight Pictures
In 2025 alone, Imkhitha qualified to represent South Africa at the African Individual Chess Championships, the African Schools Championships, and the FIDE Youth Olympiad. But each time, she had to stay behind — not because she wasn’t good enough, but because there simply wasn’t enough money or time to raise what was needed.
Her coach and mentor, Thando Hlakula, says those missed opportunities have been some of the toughest parts of her journey. “She worked so hard to qualify, but without funding, we couldn’t make it happen. Watching her miss out on experiences she earned was heartbreaking.”
But now, there’s a second chance.
Imkhitha has been invited to represent South Africa at the World Youth Chess Championships in Albania this October, and the African Youth Chess Championships in Algeria this December. These two tournaments are not just another opportunity — they are pivotal moments in her development, stepping stones on her path to becoming a Woman International Master, and eventually a grandmaster.
To get to Albania, Imkhitha needs to raise over R94,000 on her BackaBuddy campaign. The total includes return flights, visas, entry fees, accommodation, and daily expenses for herself and her coach, who will also serve as her guardian abroad.
“So far, we’ve raised just over R19,000 from 8 incredible donors,” says Thando. “It’s been so moving to see people stepping up for her. Every bit of support, no matter the size, shows her that her hard work is seen and valued.”
Photo credit: Flashlight Pictures
Imkhitha’s story began in 2020 when she was introduced to chess through a school programme at Isigcawu Primary. It didn’t take long for her teachers and coaches to realise she had something special — but talent didn’t bring her easy wins.
“She lost every single game in her first tournament,” Thando remembers. “But what stood out wasn’t the loss — it was how she responded. She didn’t cry. She didn’t complain. She asked when the next tournament was.”
“She kept showing up, kept learning, and kept improving.”
Since then, she’s become known not just for her sharp mind, but for her humility, focus, and work ethic. Some days, she trains for up to eight hours. “She has a hunger to learn that I’ve rarely seen,” says Thando. “She doesn’t want to just be the best — she wants to keep getting better.”
Her breakthrough came this year, when she returned to the SA Junior Closed Championships with one goal in mind: to win. “Last year, she came second and was crushed by it,” he shares. “She learned from that. This year, she came back stronger, beat the defending champion, and walked away undefeated. It was a proud moment — one we’ll never forget.”
But Imkhitha’s motivation is about more than titles. She sees herself as someone who can shift perceptions — not just of what chess is, but of who belongs in the game.
“Representing South Africa is something she takes very seriously,” says Thando. “Her story challenges what people think is possible for young girls in townships like Crossroads. She’s showing that brilliance, discipline, and greatness can come from anywhere — all they need is a chance.”
Traveling internationally won’t be easy for a 14-year-old, which is why Thando will accompany her to both Albania and Algeria.
“She needs someone she trusts by her side,” he explains. “Not just for logistics, but for emotional support. Someone to help her stay grounded, strategise between rounds, and remind her why she belongs on that stage.”
For now, Imkhitha is focused on raising the funds to get there.
“Any contribution, big or small, ensures that a young girl from a disadvantaged background isn’t held back by lack of funds,” Thando says. “She’s done the work. She’s earned the opportunity. Now we just need the support to help her take that next step.”
To support Imkhitha Joya, visit her BackaBuddy campaign link here:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/get-imkhitha-to-the-world-chess-championships
by Simbulele Jezile | Jun 20, 2025 | Featured, Free Resources, Resource Hub
South Africans are giving more — and making an even bigger impact — thanks to a major change on Africa’s most trusted crowdfunding platform. As of June 2025, BackaBuddy now charges 0% platform fees on all campaigns, meaning every rand raised goes directly to the cause.
For individuals, schools, charities, and community groups, this shift is already helping more people raise funds, reach more donors, and uplift more lives.
Raising More. Giving More.
Already this year, the move to 0% platform fees has helped channel over R12 million extra directly into the hands of campaigners and charities.
In the past 12 months, more than 54,000 donations through BackaBuddy have raised over R157 million — supporting medical care, education, disaster relief, disability access, housing, and many personal needs across South Africa.
People Funding Purpose
Every day, individuals use BackaBuddy to raise funds for life-changing needs — from surgeries and school fees to funeral costs, disaster recovery, and community projects.
Whether it’s a mother crowdfunding for her child’s hearing aids, a teacher helping a student get to university, or a neighbourhood rallying to rebuild after a fire — every campaign brings hope and opportunity.
“When people feel empowered, they give more,” says Patrick Schofield, Founder and CEO of BackaBuddy. “Compulsory. Mandatory. Exclusionary. These are words I don’t like. But choice, agency, and accessibility? These are words I do. It’s what informed my thinking in developing the 0% platform fee model at BackaBuddy. Firstly to maximise funds going directly to those who need them. But also, by giving you the option to add a voluntary tip when you donate, you’re given the choice — and the agency — to support the work we do in enabling crowdfunding for others. If you feel our service is excellent and our platform delivers real value, you’ll choose to support us. And if not, you won’t. What better way to ensure everyone at BackaBuddy is super focused on excellence in service and being the best possible platform out there for you.”
Since launching in 2015, BackaBuddy has helped raise more than R630 million for over 44,000 campaigns — powered by a caring community of over 650,000 donors in South Africa and around the world.
How It Works
BackaBuddy’s 0% platform fee officially launched in June 2025. Donors now have the option to leave a small voluntary tip to help support the platform — while every rand raised (minus only third-party payment processing fees) goes directly to the campaign.
Charities Already Seeing the Difference
Both large and small charities are benefiting from the change.
Gift of the Givers shares:
“We pride ourselves on ensuring that every cent possible goes to the people we help. With BackaBuddy’s 0% platform fee and transparent cost structure, our fundraisers know that their supporters’ donations go where they’re needed most — inspiring trust and generosity.”
Charities, like Rainbows and Smiles — supporting families of children with cancer — agree:
“The 0% platform fee has been a real gift,” the team says. “It reassures donors that their contributions go directly where they’re needed — and for smaller charities like ours, it removes so much of the stress of fundraising. Every rand now makes an even bigger difference.”
Why More Are Choosing BackaBuddy
More South Africans are choosing BackaBuddy because it helps them raise more — with 0% platform fees ensuring every campaign keeps more of what it raises. The platform offers trusted, easy-to-use technology and practical tools to help campaigners tell their stories and inspire giving.
To support a fundraiser or launch your own campaign, visit:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za
