by Tessa Van Rensberg | Mar 27, 2026 | Press Release
Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal — A frontline conservation drone team working to protect one of the world’s most significant rhino populations is seeking public support to expand its operations across KwaZulu-Natal.
A crowdfunding campaign launched by WildSky Foundation aims to raise R89,000 for critical equipment that will allow drones to remain operational in remote areas, strengthening aerial monitoring and helping rangers respond more effectively to potential threats.
Technology in the Fight Against Poaching
Across KwaZulu-Natal, conservation teams are tasked with protecting vast landscapes where endangered species such as rhinos remain vulnerable to poaching.
Traditional ground patrols remain critical, but monitoring large reserves with limited resources presents constant challenges.
Drone technology has become a powerful addition to conservation efforts, allowing teams to scan large areas from the air, track animal movements, and detect suspicious activity far more quickly than ground patrols alone.
“Drone technology dramatically improves the ability of rangers to monitor large and remote areas,” says Craig Lord, Co-founder and Operations Manager at WildSky Foundation.
“It provides rapid aerial visibility over terrain that would otherwise take hours to patrol on foot or by vehicle, allowing teams to detect threats earlier and respond faster.”
However, the effectiveness of drone patrols depends heavily on having reliable power systems in the field.
The Equipment That Keeps Patrols in the Air
The campaign aims to fund two critical tools that will allow the drone team to operate continuously in remote environments.
Drone Batteries – R54,000
Drone batteries determine how long a team can remain airborne during patrols. Additional batteries allow teams to extend flight time, cover larger areas, and respond quickly when threats are detected.
Vehicle-Mounted Inverter System – R35,000
Many conservation areas operate far from reliable electricity. A vehicle-mounted inverter allows drone batteries and equipment to be charged directly from patrol vehicles while in the field, ensuring operations can continue even in remote locations.
Together, these systems will significantly increase the drone team’s operational capacity.
“Drones are only effective if they can stay in the air,” Lord explains.
“This equipment allows teams to operate continuously, extending their reach across vast and remote landscapes where wildlife is most vulnerable.”
Protecting Wildlife Across Vast Landscapes
The project focuses on Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, one of Africa’s oldest and most important protected areas, covering approximately 96,000 hectares of wilderness.
With the right equipment, a single drone team can monitor tens of thousands of hectares of wildlife habitat.
The park is home to one of the most significant rhino populations remaining in the world — approximately 1,600 white rhinos and more than 350 black rhinos, along with other threatened species including elephant, cheetah and African wild dog.
“This is one of the world’s most critical rhino strongholds,” says Lord.
“Protecting this population is essential to the future survival of the species.”
This expanded aerial capability allows conservation teams to:
- Extend patrol coverage across remote reserves
• Monitor rhinos and other endangered species
• Detect suspicious activity early
• Respond rapidly to potential threats
For conservation teams working in difficult terrain, drone surveillance provides an additional layer of protection that can make a significant difference in preventing wildlife crime.
“The presence of drones also acts as a strong deterrent,” Lord adds.
“It changes how poachers operate and gives rangers a significant advantage.”
Innovation Driving Conservation
WildSky Foundation focuses on bridging the gap between conservation and innovation by ensuring frontline teams have access to the technology needed to protect biodiversity.
Drone technology has already proven effective in the park.
WildSky has worked closely with park management and ranger teams to develop and implement drone-supported anti-poaching operations, improving situational awareness and enabling faster response times.
Encouragingly, these combined efforts are already showing results.
“Recent interventions have led to a significant reduction in rhino losses to poaching,” says Lord.
“It shows that when you combine skilled rangers with the right technology, you can make a measurable difference.”
Through initiatives like this drone campaign, the foundation aims to strengthen and expand these gains.
Ready to Deploy
If the funding goal is reached, the impact could be immediate.
“We already have trained pilots, operational procedures and partnerships in place,” Lord explains.
“Deployment of the new equipment could begin within a few weeks.”
This means expanded aerial protection could be rolled out quickly across the park’s vast terrain.
How the Public Can Help
The campaign hopes to raise R89,000 to fully equip the drone patrol team.
Every donation helps bring the team closer to keeping their drones operational and expanding protection for KwaZulu-Natal’s wildlife.
“Every contribution helps place advanced technology directly into the hands of rangers on the front lines,” says Lord. “By supporting this campaign, people are directly helping protect one of the most important rhino populations in the world and ensuring these animals survive for future generations.”
To support the campaign or learn more, visit:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/power-a-drone-team-protecting-kzns-rhinos
by Tessa Van Rensberg | Mar 24, 2026 | Press Release
Krugersdorp, Gauteng — Xonja Racheal Van Tonder (2), a toddler from Krugersdorp West born with Down syndrome, is fighting for her life after being diagnosed with two serious heart defects that are placing dangerous strain on her body.
Diagnosed within her first months of life, Xonja suffers from Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) and Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD), conditions that now require urgent open-heart surgery. Her family must raise R400,000 to cover the cost of the life-saving procedure and related medical care.
A Little Girl Full of Joy
At just two years and five months old, Xonja is described as a bright, loving child who brings joy to everyone around her.
“She is one of the friendliest little girls — always smiling and full of life,” her parents shared. “She loves Tinkerbell, music, and trying to say new words. She even loves water so much, she would probably find it in the Sahara Desert.”
Despite her condition, her spirit remains strong.
“She loves making people smile and always wants the last say,” they added.
A Heart Working Too Hard
Doctors diagnosed Xonja with PDA and VSD during her early check-ups, and her condition has worsened over time.
These defects are forcing her small heart to work far harder than it should, affecting her oxygen levels and overall development.
Her parents describe the daily reality:
“Her oxygen levels drop dangerously low, especially while she sleeps. Sometimes her lips, hands and feet turn blue. She gets sick very easily and struggles to get proper rest.”
The condition has also limited her ability to live like other children her age.
“She often cannot be around other children, and she misses out on school activities and making friends because of how fragile her health is,” they explained.
The Surgery She Urgently Needs
After numerous hospital visits and delays within the public healthcare system, specialists have confirmed that Xonja requires urgent open-heart surgery.
Doctors at Dr Yusuf Dadoo Hospital, Rahima Moosa Hospital, and Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital have all assessed her condition. After extensive testing, it was determined that the holes in her heart are too large to close on their own and must be surgically repaired.
Because of increasing pressure on her lungs and dangerously low oxygen levels, the situation has become critical.
“This surgery is not optional — it is life-saving,” her parents said.
A Journey Marked by Delays
Xonja’s surgery was initially scheduled for October 2025, then postponed to January 2026.
However, due to unforeseen circumstances — including illness and the passing of a leading specialist — the procedure was delayed again, with no new date provided.
Since then, her family has been left in limbo.
“We have tried everything — calls, emails, follow-ups — but we have received no clear answers or support,” they shared.
In the meantime, her condition has worsened.
“We had to borrow an oxygen machine because her levels dropped as low as 34%. Even now, we struggle to keep them above safe levels.”
A Race Against Time
Doctors have warned that further delays could have devastating consequences.
“If the surgery is delayed any longer, the holes could become inoperable,” her parents explained. “At that point, the only option may be a transplant — or worse.”
In the most heartbreaking terms, they added:
“She might not have a third birthday.”
The Cost of Saving a Life
The estimated cost of Xonja’s treatment is approximately R400,000, covering open-heart surgery, ICU care, hospitalisation, medication, and post-surgery follow-ups.
Private hospitals have confirmed they can perform the surgery — but require upfront payment before proceeding.
For her family, this is an impossible financial burden.
“We never imagined we would be asking for help like this,” they said. “But when it comes to our daughter’s life, we will do anything.”
How the Public Can Help
The family has launched a crowdfunding campaign and is appealing to the public for support.
Every contribution, no matter how small, brings Xonja one step closer to the life-saving surgery she urgently needs.
“We don’t know how to say thank you to everyone who has supported us,” her parents shared. “Even a like or a share makes a difference and brings her closer to a better life.”
“Seeing her struggle, while she thinks it’s normal, breaks our hearts every day.”
“If you can’t donate, please share her story. She deserves the chance to grow, to play, and to live.”
To support Xonja’s campaign, visit:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-us-repair-our-daughter-heart
by Tessa Van Rensberg | Mar 24, 2026 | Press Release
Cape Town, Western Cape — Kendra Erin Abrahams (14), a rising academic star from Lotus River, Cape Town, has been selected for a prestigious international Academic Achievers Tour to the United Kingdom and Scotland in September/October 2026, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity bringing her closer to her dream of studying at Oxford University.
Recognised for her outstanding academic performance, Kendra earned her place at the end of 2025 after achieving an impressive 76.4% overall average across all subjects.
A crowdfunding campaign has been launched to raise over R60,000 needed to cover travel and tour costs, as her family works tirelessly to make the opportunity a reality.
A Dream Earned Through Hard Work
Kendra, originally from Hanover Park and now living in Lotus River, is currently a Grade 9 learner at Sans Souci Girls’ High School, where she continues to excel academically.
Her achievements speak for themselves. At her school’s recent awards ceremony, she received five subject awards for achieving over 70%, along with a Merit Award for her impressive overall performance.
Her parents say her success is no accident.
“Kendra has always been a dedicated and hardworking student,” they shared. “She consistently strives for excellence, balancing her schoolwork with extracurricular activities and community involvement. Her curiosity and determination have set a strong foundation for her future.”
From the Cape Flats to the World Stage
The 11-day tour will see Kendra visit some of the world’s most renowned institutions, including:
- University of Edinburgh
• Oxford University
• Cambridge University
• Queen Mary University of London
Learners will attend academic lectures, engage with global institutions, and explore historic centres of knowledge and innovation.
For Kendra, the experience carries deep personal meaning.
“This opportunity is life-changing. It was not given to me — I worked for it,” she said. “It brings me closer to my dream of studying at Oxford and helps me understand what it takes to succeed in that environment.”
Her parents echoed this sentiment, adding:
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It will expose her to new cultures, broaden her perspective, and give her invaluable learning experiences that will strengthen her academic journey.”
More Than Academics — A Future Leader
Beyond her academic success, Kendra is a well-rounded and driven young leader.
She serves on the Representative Council of Learners (RCL), is actively involved in her church youth community, and participates in outreach initiatives. She also enjoys netball, swimming, and creative pursuits.
“Kendra is an intelligent, curious, and compassionate young person,” her family shared. “She has a natural leadership spirit and a positive energy that inspires those around her.”
The Cost of Opportunity
Despite the opportunity, the financial cost remains a significant challenge.
The tour is expected to cost between R62,000 and R82,000, covering flights, accommodation, and programme participation.
The family has encountered several challenges in raising the funds, including limited awareness of the campaign, financial pressures within their network, and competing fundraising initiatives.
“We cannot afford to do it on our own,” they said. “We need all the help we can get.”
A Community Call to Invest in Potential
For Kendra’s family, this journey is about far more than a trip.
“If Kendra is able to go on this tour, it would mean the world to our family,” they shared. “It’s not just an incredible learning experience for her — it’s a moment of pride and joy for all of us. It reinforces the value of hard work, perseverance, and community support.”
How the Public Can Help
The family is appealing to the public, businesses, and supporters of education to help make this opportunity possible.
Every contribution, no matter how small, brings Kendra one step closer to achieving her dream.
“Thank you so much for supporting me and my dream,” Kendra said. “Your generosity and encouragement mean the world to me. I promise to make the most of this opportunity and carry your support with me every step of the way.”
Her parents added:
“We are deeply grateful for every contribution, every share, and every word of encouragement. You are helping shape her future in ways we cannot fully express.”
To support Kendra’s campaign, visit:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/academic-achievers-scotland-and-england-tour-2026
by Tessa Van Rensberg | Mar 24, 2026 | Press Release
Cape Town, Western Cape — Christiaan Britz (62), a father from Durbanville, Cape Town, is fighting aggressive pancreatic cancer after a freak ladder accident in June 2024 led doctors to discover a tumour during hospital scans.
After being declared cancer-free following months of chemotherapy and an 11-hour surgery, the cancer has now returned and spread to his liver and major arteries. His daughters have launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise R800,000 to help cover urgently needed chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatment that is not fully covered by medical aid.
The Accident That Changed Everything
On 10 June 2024, what began as an ordinary day turned into a life-threatening emergency for the Britz family.
Chris fell from a ladder and sustained severe injuries, including multiple skull fractures, a concussion, and injuries to his ribs, shoulder, pelvis and other bones.
His daughter Joline found him lying on the cold floor, barely able to move. Fearing the worst, she rushed him to hospital while praying for his survival.
While doctors treated his injuries, scans revealed something completely unexpected, a tumour on his pancreas.
The discovery came as a shock to the family, but doctors explained that if the accident had not happened, the cancer might have gone undetected until it was far more advanced.
Fighting Pancreatic Cancer
Chris was diagnosed with Stage 2 pancreatic cancer, one of the most aggressive and difficult cancers to treat.
Determined to give their father the best chance possible, his daughters began contacting hospitals across South Africa in search of the right specialist.
They eventually connected with Dr Stefan Hofmeyr, who placed Chris on an aggressive treatment plan designed to shrink the tumour before surgery.
Over the months that followed, Chris endured long chemotherapy sessions, including FOLFIRINOX and Gemcitabine with Nab-paclitaxel, alongside radiation treatment.
Despite the physical toll, he continued to fight with determination.
A Moment of Hope
In January 2025, Chris underwent a complex 11-hour surgery to remove the tumour.
For his family, the hours felt endless.
When doctors finally emerged with the results, they delivered the words the family had been desperately hoping for:
“All clear. No cancer.”
The Britz family describes the moment as one of overwhelming relief — a second chance they believed had been given to them.
Chris continued with additional treatment as a precaution, and by June 2025, doctors confirmed there was still no sign of cancer.
For a while, life began to return to normal.
When the Cancer Returned
In March 2026, the family received devastating news.
After months of believing the cancer had been defeated, doctors confirmed that it had returned aggressively.
This time the cancer had spread to Chris’s liver, a major artery and other surrounding areas, making treatment more complex and urgent.
For his daughters, the news felt like reliving the nightmare all over again.
“He is doing his best to stay strong and hopeful,” his family shared. “Emotionally, it has been a very stressful and overwhelming time for all of us, but he has also been deeply moved by the incredible support from friends, family, and even strangers.”
A Race Against Time for Treatment
Chris has not yet been able to begin his next round of treatment.
“He will only be able to start once we have raised enough funds for the first round of chemotherapy and immunotherapy,” his family explained. “We are hoping this will happen soon, and his doctors are also trying to arrange discounts with the relevant institutions.”
The urgency is clear, without timely treatment, his condition could continue to worsen.
A Family Refusing to Give Up
Chris is described by his family as the heart of their home, a devoted husband, a loving father and a man whose strength has held the family together through difficult times.
“My dad means everything to our family and so much to the people around him,” they shared. “He is a deeply caring person who has always shown up for others with generosity, strength, and kindness.”
Beyond his role as a father, Chris has helped many people through hypnotherapy, supporting those struggling with addiction, helping establish rehabilitation centres, and guiding others through deep personal trauma.
“He has made a real difference in many lives, and in his community, he is known as someone who gives of himself wholeheartedly.”
Holding Onto Hope
For the Britz family, the emotional toll has been immense.
“The most difficult part of this journey has been trying to stay hopeful and positive through so much uncertainty, while holding onto faith that he can be healed again,” they said.
How the Community Can Help
Funds raised through the campaign will help cover:
• Chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments
• Specialist consultations and medical scans
• Blood tests and monitoring
• Medication, pain management and supportive care
For the Britz family, every contribution represents another chance for Chris to continue his fight.
“We are deeply grateful for every prayer, donation, kind word, and act of support,” they shared. “Your generosity has given our family hope in one of the hardest seasons of our lives.”
“If you cannot donate, please consider sharing our story or keeping our family in your prayers.”
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for standing with us and fighting for our Dadda.”
To support Chris’s campaign, visit:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/stand-with-britz-family-help-chris-fight-cancer
by Tessa Van Rensberg | Mar 24, 2026 | Press Release
Cape Town, Western Cape — Diedre Kruger (32), a hairstylist from Blackheath in Cape Town’s Northern Suburbs, has made the difficult decision to close the salon she built over the past decade in order to pursue an international career as a cruise ship hairstylist. The opportunity, which begins in April 2026, offers global experience and long-term financial stability — but first she must raise R45,000 to cover travel and onboarding costs before she can board.
For Kruger, the decision marks the end of a deeply personal chapter and the beginning of a bold new one.
Closing One Chapter After a Decade of Hard Work
Kruger owned and operated her salon for 10 years, building a loyal client base and navigating the realities of running a small business in a challenging economic climate.
“I owned and operated my salon for 10 years,” she said. “Like many small business owners, I faced financial pressure, rising costs and the emotional responsibility of maintaining a steady client base. There were seasons of uncertainty, but I remained committed to serving my clients with passion and professionalism.”
Over time, the salon became far more than a workplace.
“The salon was more than just a business — it was a dream I built with hard work and dedication.”
But when the opportunity to work on an international cruise ship came along, Kruger realised it could offer something her small business could not — financial stability, global experience and the chance to grow her career beyond South Africa.
“Closing my salon was one of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever made,” she said. “However, I realised that sometimes growth requires stepping out of your comfort zone. I chose long-term growth over short-term comfort.”
The Cost of Opportunity
To begin her new role, Kruger must cover several upfront expenses required before joining the ship, including international travel, visa processing, onboarding requirements, and work-related preparations.
These once-off costs amount to approximately R45,000.
Seven days ago, she launched a crowdfunding campaign to help bridge the gap between closing her business and stepping into the new role.
So far, eight supporters have contributed toward the goal.
Without raising the funds in time, the opportunity may be delayed.
“This would mean delaying my career progression and the financial stability I am working so hard to achieve,” she explained. “That is why every bit of support truly makes a difference.”
A Career Opportunity Beyond South Africa
Working on a cruise ship offers hairstylists the opportunity to serve international clients while travelling the world and gaining valuable global industry experience.
For Kruger, the move represents both professional and personal growth.
“What excites me most is the opportunity to grow professionally while experiencing different cultures and meeting people from around the world,” she said. “It’s a chance to represent my skills internationally, expand my experience in the beauty industry and push myself beyond what I thought was possible.”
Beyond the adventure, the decision is also about creating long-term security.
“This opportunity means stability, growth and the ability to build a more secure future,” she explained. “My long-term goal is to strengthen my financial foundation, gain international experience and eventually reinvest in my dreams with greater knowledge and resources.”
Saying Goodbye to Loyal Clients
While the opportunity brings excitement, closing the salon has been an emotional process.
“The most emotional part has been saying goodbye to my loyal clients who supported me through every season,” Kruger said. “They were more than clients — they became part of my journey.”
Many have continued supporting her through encouragement and donations to the campaign.
One donor wrote, “All the best on your venture lady. May the Almighty guide and protect you.”
A Dream Beyond the Salon
As she prepares to step onto the ship in April 2026, Kruger says the support she has received has reminded her that pursuing a dream rarely happens alone.
“To everyone supporting me, thank you from the bottom of my heart,” she said. “Your encouragement, prayers and contributions mean more than words can express.”
“You are not just helping me travel — you are helping me step into a new chapter of courage, faith and growth. I promise to make you proud.”
To support or share Diedre’s campaign, visit:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-my-dream-from-salon-to-sea
