At just five years old, Caleb Alexander from Oudtshoorn has already walked a difficult road — from surgeries to correct club feet to recovering from facial burns as a toddler. Now, as he prepares to start Grade 1, his family faces a new challenge: helping Caleb overcome hearing loss that quietly shaped his early years in ways they didn’t fully understand until recently.
Despite everything, Caleb’s world is filled with colour and imagination. Known for his cheeky grin and endless creativity, he spends his days sketching vivid pictures, building elaborate LEGO creations, and acting out stories as a brave firefighter. But behind the laughter lies a deeper need: the ability to hear and connect with the world around him.
The Boy Who Sees the World in Colour
Even without many words, Caleb’s vibrant personality shines. He’s the artist of the family, drawn to colouring books and gifted with a unique sense of colour and creativity.
“He’s our little artist,” says Nina-Rose Clarke, Caleb’s aunt and the creator of his BackaBuddy campaign. “He colours beautifully, builds for hours, and has a way of expressing joy that goes beyond words.”
Pictured above:Caleb Alexander (5)
When the family noticed delays in Caleb’s speech and social development, they arranged hearing tests for all three siblings due to a known family history. The results confirmed their fears: Caleb had been living with hearing loss since birth.
“Having the actual confirmation was difficult,” Nina-Rose says. “But we’re a family that believes in action, not despair.”
With limited audiology services in Oudtshoorn, even travelling to specialists has become a financial strain. And at such a pivotal age — where language blossoms, friendships form, and learning begins — time is of the essence.
A Family Bound by Love and Belief
Caleb, the middle of three brothers, is often described as the glue that holds the family together. He’s cheeky and full of mischief — always pulling funny faces or pretending to be a dog just to make someone laugh. He’s also remarkably independent, happily making his own bed, tidying up after himself, and always ready to help with the younger children in the family.
Pictured above:Caleb Alexander with his father Dean Alexander
In their close-knit, often noisy home, the family has learned to adapt. They take Caleb on quiet walks during gatherings to give him a break from overwhelming sounds and have developed new ways of communicating — using gestures, making eye contact, and repeating instructions patiently.
Sharing a birthday with Caleb, Nina-Rose has a special bond with him. She launched the campaign out of love and hope — hope that, with hearing aids, speech therapy, and the right support, Caleb will step into the classroom with confidence and into the future he deserves.
“These hearing aids will not just help him hear — they’ll help him learn, connect, and grow into the incredible person he already is.”
Hearing the World, One Gift at a Time
The family’s goal is to raise R30,000 to cover quality hearing aids, ongoing speech therapy, and regular trips to audiologists outside their hometown. In just 11 days, more than 36 donors have already contributed over R17,000 — a heartening reminder that even small actions can create real change.
“We are immensely thankful to each person who has donated, whether anonymously or by name,” says Nina-Rose. “And to those who took the time to share his story — you’ve reminded us that kindness still exists, even from strangers. That’s a powerful lesson for Caleb and his brothers: that the world is full of people who care.”
With every donation, the family feels a little more hopeful. “Whether it’s R10 or a social media share, it matters. It reminds us that Caleb’s story, though filled with challenges, can also be one of light.”
Pictured above: Caleb Alexander with his parents Dean and Denoliza Alexander
Aadam Forgan (43), from the Deep South of Cape Town, is preparing to run the Outeniqua Half Marathon on 26 April 2025—while bravely facing stage 4 colorectal cancer. Diagnosed in 2023, just months after his sister was also diagnosed with cancer, Aadam has undergone major surgery and grueling chemotherapy sessions. Now holding onto hope for a life-saving liver transplant, he’s channelled his passion for running into something bigger—raising over R31 500 for CHOC (Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa) through his BackaBuddy campaign, to support children on their own cancer journeys.
A Journey Through Adversity
Growing up as the eldest of three in Cape Town’s Deep South, Aadam learned resilience from his athletic father. After losing a kidney at age 14, he turned to surfing and running, discovering the peace and strength both sports offered. Two decades later, he built his own construction company, mentoring young tradespeople and embracing the challenges of the industry.
Photo above: Aadam Surfing
When his sister was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer at the end of 2022, doctors urged the entire family to get screened. Aadam’s colonoscopy revealed stage 4 cancer with eighteen liver metastases—yet he had experienced no symptoms. Today, he faces chemotherapy sessions that can last six to eight hours.
“When I go in for chemo, there’s a separate ward for kids,” he reflects. “Through the curtain, sometimes you’ll hear laughter. Other times, tears. I’ll unplug my IV stand, walk with my six drips to the window overlooking the freeway, and let my own tears fall quietly—so I don’t disturb the others. Those children and their families are never far from my mind.”
Running for Hope
Despite the physical toll of treatment and surgery, Aadam has trained steadily since his operation last November. Running, he says, is more than exercise—it’s proof of survival.
“When I run, I feel very optimistic and hopeful, because I know how much I’ve overcome to even have the opportunity to run. I wanted to share this hope with others and help kids facing the same challenge my sister and I are confronting. It didn’t matter if I raised R100 or R10 000; dropping a pebble of hope can start a much bigger wave.”
His BackaBuddy campaign, launched just 13 days ago, has already surpassed its R20 000 target, with over R31 500 raised by 47 generous donors. Every rand supports CHOC’s work—from hospital visits to family counseling—ensuring that children with cancer and their loved ones receive vital care and comfort.
Photo above: Aadam with his son
With each kilometer he conquers on 26 April, Aadam will carry the spirit of the children he met in the chemo ward. His campaign isn’t just a fundraiser—it’s a powerful reminder of community strength and shared hope.
“I just want to say thank you to everyone who has donated to this campaign, and also thank you for the support and kind words. This means the world to me.”
Aadam’s campaign on BackaBuddy is still open for donations here:
Jayden Samuels (14), a talented ballet dancer from Rosettenville, Johannesburg, is set to shine on a global stage at the Youth American Grand Prix in Tampa, Florida, from 21–29 April 2025. His extraordinary journey has captured hearts, and now, after years of dedication and sacrifice, he has qualified for the finals of this prestigious competition. With the support of his community and his devoted choreographer, Mario Gaglione, efforts are underway to help him cover the costs of this life-changing opportunity.
His love for ballet began at the age of six, sparked by performances he saw on television. Growing up in Rosettenville, he faced challenges that many young artists know too well—long journeys to training sessions in Braamfontein and Parkhurst, and the constant worry of affording ballet gear and tuition. But for Jayden, every hurdle was simply another step in his dance, pushing him to work even harder.
When he met his choreographer, Mario Gaglione in 2020, it was a partnership that felt meant to be.
“I first met Jayden in 2020, when he was about eight. He was training at the Joburg Ballet School, and I had just joined the Joburg Ballet company. I immediately recognized a talented artist in the making,” recalls Mario. From that moment, a strong mentorship was formed.
Jayden’s journey has been shaped by incredible mentors. While Mario Gaglione has guided his choreography, Thabang Mabaso and Yana Auger have also played the most vital role in his training, refining his technique and pushing him to excel.
Now, stepping onto an international stage is more than just a dream—it is a chance to be seen by directors of top dance schools and companies in cities like London, Paris, and New York, as well as those shaping ballet in South Africa.
Mario has worked with many incredible dancers throughout his career, but Jayden’s talent at such a young age is something truly exceptional.
“I have worked with plenty of fantastic artists who have danced in great companies and have also had the chance to take part in prestigious competitions, but never someone of this very young age. These competitions are a great way to expose talents to directors of schools and companies that can offer a high level of dance training,” shares Mario.
Preparing for the Youth American Grand Prix comes with financial challenges, and that is where the community has stepped in.
To help cover the costs of flights, accommodation, and visa fees, Mario launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddyin March 2025. The goal is to raise R90,000, and already, 39 donors have contributed over R34,000, proving that Jayden’s journey has touched many hearts.
More than just a fundraiser, this campaign is a celebration of talent, determination, and the power of collective support.
“There are never enough thanks given to each person, but we are humbled at the amount of support received from close friends and people of all ages, all rooting for Jayden with great optimism. We wish for all donors to feel as if they are taking part in this journey, witnessing Jayden’s dancing, living in the moment, and shining on stage as only he can,” Mario shares with gratitude.
For young dancers across South Africa, Jayden’s story is one of hope. It shows that with hard work, talent, and a community that believes in you, dreams can become reality. His performance at the YAGP will not only shape his own future but will inspire others to pursue their passions, no matter the obstacles in their way.
To support Jayden Samuels visit their BackaBuddy campaign link here:
Tanya de Bruin, 34 from Alberton, Johannesburg—an attorney by day, devoted mother of two, and a relentless cancer warrior 24/7—is bravely fighting triple-negative breast cancer that has progressed to metastatic disease. With each treatment session costing R130,000—and her medical aid covering only half—Tanya now faces the challenge of raising R65,000 every three weeks.
Photo above: Johann and Tanya de Bruin with their children Ruben and Divan
In 2023, Tanya’s life took a dramatic turn. While expecting her second child, she was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer—a rare
and aggressive condition. Just one week later, her hero and father received a similar diagnosis. Yet, despite these trials, Tanya’s determination shines through.
“Strength isn’t just physical—it’s the strength to face adversity head-on, to fight for the ones you love, and to keep going even when the odds seem insurmountable,” she affirms.
Starting chemotherapy during pregnancy was incredibly challenging, but the love of her supportive husband and her son kept her spirit high. The arrival of her son Divan in August 2023, even though he was born a bit early at 35 weeks, became a powerful symbol of hope and resilience. Tanya proudly declares, “I’m not just an attorney by day; I’m a cancer warrior 24/7,” celebrating every step of her journey.
Photo above: Tanya de Bruin 28 weeks pregnant
As her treatment journey continued, Tanya underwent an emergency mastectomy in October 2023, followed by radiation therapy in December 2023. With each session, she demonstrated the resilient spirit that defines her. However, in May 2024, more heart-wrenching news arrived—her cancer had progressed to metastatic breast cancer.
“I continue to fight for my future, for my children, and for all those who have supported me along the way,” she states, acknowledging the emotional and financial strain of her new treatment regimen.
A Community United in Support
Throughout her journey, Tanya’s community has embraced her with warmth and positivity. From caring neighbors in Alberton to generous strangers worldwide, the emotional and financial support has been overwhelming.
“My hope has been lifted by the incredible outpouring of love from family, friends, and even strangers,” she shares. From school cupcake sales to unwavering backing from her employer, every gesture fuels her fight.
To help with the financial strain, she launched her second BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign in February 2025—a testament to the power of collective strength. Already, 123 donors have joined her fight, raising over R124,000.
Photo above: Tanya de Bruin
At this stage, the only chemo available to Tanya is Enhertu—a unique blend of chemotherapy and a biologic drug that directly targets cancer cells. The problem now is that each session costs R130,000, and her medical aid only covers 50%. This means she needs to pay R65,000 every three weeks.
“Every donation, no matter how small, makes a real difference,” Tanya emphasizes, inviting everyone to join her fight and help secure the life-saving chemotherapy she needs.
“Even in the darkest times, I find strength in my family, my community, and my faith,” she says. Every day, she cherishes time with her two young sons, Ruben (soon to be three) and Divan, whose courage inspires her to keep fighting for the future they share.
For the past six years, Nonkululeko “Nonny” Mda, 47, a domestic helper and the founder of Ikhaya Lethu (Our Home), has been a lifeline for hungry children and struggling families in Promiseland informal settlement, Palmridge, Gauteng.
Since 2018, she has used her own modest earnings to provide warm, nourishing meals—especially on weekends when school feeding programs aren’t available. Now, she is reaching out for support to keep this essential initiative alive and continue making a difference in her community.
A Community in Need, A Heart That Gives
Nonny primarily helps school children, but some adults also come for meals. Many children rely on school feeding programs for their only meal of the day, but when school is closed, they sometimes go to bed without a meal. That’s where Nonny steps in, bridging the gap to ensure they don’t go without food.
She knows firsthand what it’s like to struggle. Having grown up with a single parent, she remembers moments of uncertainty—praying over their last meal, not knowing where the next meal would come from. That memory fuels her determination to ensure that no child in her community experiences the same she once did.
“I live here, and every day I see families struggling to survive, children going hungry, and parents unable to find work,” Nonny shares. “It is heartbreaking to watch people suffer, so I made it my mission to help in any way I can.”
Through Ikhaya Lethu, Nonny cooks and distributes meals to between 40 and 100 people at a time, often using her own modest earnings as a helper to supplement donations. The need is immense, and though she does everything she can, resources are always stretched thin.
“One day, I was walking down the street after buying cooking ingredients, and I asked some children to help me carry my bags,” Nonny recalls. “When I admitted I didn’t have extra change to give them, they replied with gentle smiles, ‘Mama, there’s no need to pay us—we know you’re going to cook for us.’ At that moment, I felt the true spirit of our work. I truly believe this programme has made them kinder and happier, teaching them the values of kindness and generosity.”
Caption: Founder of Ikhaya Lethu (Our Home), Nonkuleko Nonny Mda
Bridging the Hunger Gap, One Meal at a Time
Hunger in Promiseland is a daily reality. Many children rely on school meals as their only source of nourishment, but when school is out, so is their access to food. That’s where Nonny and some community members step in, ensuring that no child goes hungry over weekends.
“To continue serving our community, we need between R6,000 and R10,000 per month,” she explains. “This will help us buy food and essentials to provide hot, nutritious meals for those in need.”
Despite her best efforts, there have been times when the food simply runs out. “Rather than turn anyone away, I serve what I can from my own home,” she says. “And when supplies are low, a kind lady who sells food for a living steps in to help. Even though she is struggling herself, she always finds a way to contribute.”
With no funding for essentials like pots, plates, or cutlery, those who come for a meal—sometimes up to 100 people—bring their own plastic containers. Every effort is made to stretch what little is available, ensuring that no one is turned away.
Nonny has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to support Ikhaya Lethu, and the response has been heartwarming. Since its launch in March 2025, the campaign has already received R1,200 from nine generous donors, bringing it closer to its R20,000 goal.
For Nonny, this campaign is not just about food—it’s about dignity, hope, and a future where children can focus on their education rather than their empty stomachs. “I dream of a future where these children no longer worry about food, but can focus solely on their education and simply being kids,” she says.
Every donation to the campaign is a step toward that future. With enough support, Nonny can continue to provide warm, nutritious meals to those who need them most.
“I am very grateful to everyone who has taken the time to support our mission—whether through once-off or recurring donations to our BackaBuddy campaign, and for sharing and believing in our cause.” she says.
Pictured above: Caleb Alexander (5)
Pictured above: Caleb Alexander with his father Dean Alexander
Pictured above: Caleb Alexander with his parents Dean and Denoliza Alexander
