This December, the BackaBuddy team celebrated an extraordinary cultural exchange that captivated many on TikTok. Central to this enchanting story were two of our valued team members: Monique Weich, the enthusiastic Donor Retention Coordinator, and Lakiwe Blekiwe, the spirited Head of Charities.
Lakiwe, originating from the picturesque village of Qokolweni in the Eastern Cape, extended a warm invitation to Monique to participate in a significant local tradition: her nephews’ Mgidi celebration.
This dynamic event, deeply ingrained in Xhosa culture, signifies a young man’s transition into adulthood.
Image: Monique and Lakiwe in their traditional attire
Monique and Lakiwe, friends and colleagues at BackaBuddy, have nurtured a remarkable bond over the past five years. Their friendship, enriched by mutual respect and appreciation for each other’s cultures, has transcended the confines of the workplace, evolving into a deep, personal connection.
Together, they documented and shared their unique cultural experiences on TikTok, using the handle @qokolweni_mlungu. Lakiwe humorously mentioned having “an Mlungu on my stoep” during the holidays, reflecting the warmth and closeness of their relationship. Their posts did more than just showcase their personal journey; they provided insights into South Africa’s rich cultural heritage, highlighting the power of friendship and collaboration in bridging cultural divides.
Monique’s adventure began with a 23-hour bus journey to Mthatha, which she found surprisingly pleasant despite some delays and the sweltering heat. She experienced a bit of culture shock upon realizing she was the only Mlungu in the area, drawing curious stares and occasional photo requests, which she graciously accepted.
“The little ones at Laki’s home were very surprised to see me. They sometimes stroked my skin and played with my hair, which was really cute,” Monique fondly recalled, emphasizing the children’s innocence and curiosity.
Their TikTok series quickly became a sensation, blending humour with heartfelt moments. It featured everything from the serene landscapes of the Eastern Cape to the lively preparations for the Mgidi celebration, capturing the essence of their journey and the vibrant local culture.
The series was a hit, amassing over 637,000 views, 337 comments, and more than 12,000 likes. The comment section blossomed into a haven of positivity, brimming with messages celebrating love, respect, and positive energy.
Monique’s departure on January 3rd was bittersweet. “Leaving was hard. The time went by so fast, and before I knew it, the adventure was over,” she reflected, emphasizing the profound impact of her experience.
A particularly touching moment in their cultural journey occurred when Lakiwe gave Monique a traditional Xhosa name, ‘Nomathamsanqa’, signifying luck or blessings. This gesture was more than symbolic; it showcased the depth and respect within their friendship.
Image: Monique with Lakiwe’s mom and aunt.
Lakiwe appreciated Monique’s wholehearted embrace of her culture, noting her adaptation to new and sometimes challenging experiences.
“From pit toilets to ‘Vaskom’ baths, fermented porridge mornings, and even accepting unreliable transport as normal. What bonded us even more was her love for Mama’s steamed bread and soup – that, she truly cherished,” Lakiwe commented.
Image: Umgidi Preparations
Their TikTok posts did more than share cultural moments; they portrayed an unbreakable bond that resonated with audiences worldwide, celebrating their authenticity and joy in friendship. This story is a testament to the transformative power of genuine friendship and cultural bridging.
BackaBuddy embraces their journey as a symbol of unity and solidarity. Their path, from colleagues to confidants, reflects our platform’s ethos of fostering meaningful connections.
Follow their inspiring journey on TikTok@qokolweni_mlungu and witness the beauty of genuine friendship crossing cultural boundaries, enriched by mutual love and respect for each other’s heritage.
South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far risen over R490 Million.
As a crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has gained trust and recognition for its ability to raise substantial funds, commitment to vetting campaigns, and unwavering support for individuals and charitable causes.
With over R427 million raised for 54,023 causes and support from over 300,000 donors, we have established ourselves as a reliable platform for crowdfunding in South Africa and worldwide.
By igniting the power of collective giving, we have helped campaign creators and charities raise funds for medical emergencies, educational initiatives, community development projects, and more.
Our organisation places great importance on maintaining the integrity of its campaigns through a rigorous vetting process. Before activating charity profiles, our dedicated team carefully evaluates individual crowdfunding initiatives.
This thorough review process ensures transparency, accountability, and safeguards against fraudulent activities.
Donors can trust that their contributions will be used for their intended purpose, providing them with peace of mind and confidence in the platform.
We have offered support to both individuals and charities, making our platform versatile for various causes.
Over 30,000 causes have been supported, and our platform’s compassionate and knowledgeable team is dedicated to helping campaigners throughout their fundraising journey.
We recognize the personal stories behind the causes and strive to create a sense of community among campaigners, donors, and the causes they support.
By infusing compassion and empathy into the crowdfunding experience, we hope to foster meaningful connections and a shared commitment to making a positive impact.
Do you have any questions?
The BackaBuddy team is here to help guide you throughout your crowdfunding journey.
Picture above: Portrait drawn by 11-year-old Earth-shaker, Romario Valentine
Every year on International Mandela Day (18th of July), we celebrate not only the birth of Tata Madiba but his 67-year commitment to social justice and servant leadership.
On this day, we come together to honor our diverse nation and respond to a global call for action, harnessing our collective power to positively shape the world around us.
What can I do on Mandela Day?
Mandela Day encourages individuals to take action and make a positive impact on their communities and the world.
Here are some things you can do on Mandela Day:
Raise funds to support your local community
Set up a campaign on South Africa’s largest crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy to raise funds and assist a person or community in need. Click here to register your cause.
Here are some ideas of things you can fundraise for on Mandela Day.
Raise funds to purchase digital food vouchers for families affected by the lockdown.
Raise funds to help restaurant staff support their families.
Raise funds to make ‘care kits’ (including a comb, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, face cloth, etc.) for patients at a nearby government hospital.
Raise funds to feed and clothe the homeless.
Raise funds to keep the light on for a non-profit organisation.
Raise funds to help non-governmental schools pay their teachers salaries.
Raise funds to purchase children’s books for an under-resourced school.
Raise funds to support a charity on BackaBuddy
On BackaBuddy, members of the public are invited to raise funds for various charities across South Africa by setting up their own fundraising campaigns.
You can initiate or contribute to fundraising campaigns supporting medical fees, education, environmental conservation, and more.
Here are a few Mandela day crowdfunding campaigns in need of support.
Support Matthew Sledge this Mandela Day
Matthew Sledge, a 51-year-old individual residing in Kensington, Johannesburg, undertook a remarkable endeavor in support of the Nelson Mandela Foundation. He participated in the Mandela Day Houghton 10km run wearing nothing but a speedo, all with the aim of raising funds for the foundation. Sledge’s ultimate goal was to assist the foundation’s ongoing initiatives in education and empowerment. His unconventional approach to fundraising garnered the attention of onlookers and served as an inspiration for them to contribute to the cause. In total, Sledge managed to raise over R32,000, a significant stride towards his R50,000 target.
Support Matthew by donating to his BackaBuddy campaign.
Support Amoya this Mandela Day
Amoyo’s Mandela Day campaign aims to raise awareness about their mission of empowering children to build a better South Africa. This year, their fundraising efforts focus on purchasing solar lights for 10 matric students affected by load-shedding, and organizing a live show for their 150 beneficiaries to showcase their talents. The funds will also cover rehearsal expenses, facilitators, costumes, sound and lighting freelancers, and a nutritional feeding program.
Support Amoya by donating to their BackaBuddy campaign.
Support Staffordshire Terrier Rescue this Mandela Day
Estrela Studio aims to support Staffordshire Terrier Rescue, a non-profit organization dedicated to rehabilitating and finding loving homes for Staffordshire Terriers. Join them this Mandela Day in raising funds and spreading awareness to make a significant difference in the lives of these deserving animals. Your donation will enable Staffordshire Terrier Rescue to provide necessary care, medical attention, and rehabilitation services, transforming the lives of these dogs and contributing to a brighter future for them.
Support Staffordshire Terrier Rescue by donating to their BackaBuddy campaign.
Learn more about setting up a crowdfunding campaign here or email [email protected].
Donate to a charity or cause you’re passionate about
Looking for a crowdfunding cause to donate to on Mandela day? Visit our Featured Campaigns article for a few campaigns that have been highlighted on the Backabuddy Impact Village as well as in media publications across South Africa this week.
Volunteer your time
Visit BackaBuddy’s Facebook page, and share a crowdfunding campaign that inspires you and encourage your family and friends to make a donation.
Support the South African National Blood Service by donating blood at a centre near you.
However you decide to celebrate your 67 minutes on Mandela Day, make an effort to inspire and care for your fellow South Africans. Together we can make a world of difference. It takes a village.
Create a crowdfunding campaign
South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far raised over R260 Million.
Taylea duToit, a resident of Sea Point, Cape Town, launched a crowdfunding campaign to help Siyabonga “Siya” Zimoshile (44) rebuild his informal home after it was demolished by the city of Cape Town. Within 24 hours, the campaign had exceeded its target, raising R45,000 with the support of 50 donors.
Siya is a security guard at Taylea’s building, where he goes above and beyond to ensure the safety of all residents. He also maintains the gardens on his off days to provide for his family, which includes his wife and four children, the youngest of whom is only five years old.
Siya’s heroism was recently put to the test when a fire broke out in the apartment building. Siya and his fellow guards and maintenance man worked tirelessly to evacuate the building’s 14 stories, which included many children and elderly residents. Siya bravely fought the blaze until the fire department arrived, preventing further damage to property and saving lives.
Noncedo, with the children she shares with Siyabonga
A home reduced to rubble and ruin
On May 2, Siya received a devastating phone call from his wife, Noncedo (38), to say that their informal settlement in Hout Bay, where they have lived for 20 years, had been destroyed.
Siya’s family home after it was destroyed
Siya’s family was left with nothing but the clothes they were wearing when their home, along with all their possessions and stored food, was destroyed. Adding to their struggles, Siya had invested a significant amount of money to expand their home, to accommodate his growing family, only to see it reduced to rubble and ruin. With the upcoming winter, the destruction of their home has left them in a dire situation, unsure of how they will manage to get through the cold months ahead.
Taylea reached out to the online community for support, and the response to her BackaBuddycampaign was truly heartwarming. The outpouring of generosity and kindness from strangers has given Siya and his family the hope and means to rebuild their home, and to take care of themselves during the difficult times ahead. Thanks to the incredible support of the online community, Siya can now focus on what really matters – his family’s well-being.
Siya with his only daughter, Ovayo.
Siya expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am overwhelmed by the support I have received from Taylea and everyone who has donated. I never expected this much kindness from strangers. This has given me hope for a better future for my family.”
South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far risen over R400 Million.
As BackaBuddy, a member organization of the Africa Scotland Business Network, we were fortunate enough to be selected as one of the beneficiaries of an event held by the network.
In exchange, we were asked to assist in sourcing auction items, which can be quite challenging. However, thanks to Ria Moothilal, the owner of Air School Paragliding and a previous campaign creator, we were able to auction off a free paragliding lesson as a prize!
We are incredibly thankful to Ria for this generous donation to BackaBuddy. As a passionate paragliding enthusiast and a true South African, Ria’s dedication to raising awareness about air sports and empowering Black paragliding instructors to start their own businesses is truly inspiring. Additionally, his commitment to sustainability, education, and animal welfare-related causes is remarkable.
In the past, he cycled from Cape Town to Cairo to raise funds for cochlear implants and to inspire children from their community that anything is possible. Now, through his paragliding school, he hopes to inspire people from all backgrounds to pursue their passions and make a positive difference in society.
Through the auctioning of a tandem paragliding lesson with Air School Paragliding, Ria has demonstrated his commitment to giving back to the community. The funds raised from this donation will go towards supporting various causes on our crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy.
If you’re interested in experiencing the thrill of paragliding and would like to support Air School Paragliding in Cape Town, you can book a tandem lesson with Ria at the details below. By doing so, you’ll not only get to enjoy an exciting adventure but also contribute to the growth of a local business.
Book your session:
Call: 078 095 8136
Address: The Six Building, 6, 633 Sydney St, District Six, Cape Town, 7925
South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far risen over R400 Million.
Raise funds for an individual or cause.
Register your non-profit organisation.
Create a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for a non-profit organisation.
