Inspiring Mandela Day Campaigns That Are Changing Lives Across South Africa

Inspiring Mandela Day Campaigns That Are Changing Lives Across South Africa

by | Jul 17, 2025 | Campaign, Featured

What is Mandela Day and How Can You Get Involved?

Mandela Day, held on July 18th each year, encourages individuals to spend 67 minutes doing something positive in their communities. This initiative honours Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of public service, calling on all of us to do our part—whether it’s planting trees, donating blood, feeding the hungry, or supporting a meaningful cause.

In the spirit of Mandela Day 2025, we’d like to share a few heartfelt initiatives hosted on the BackaBuddy crowdfunding platform. Supporting these campaigns is a great way to do your bit this Mandela Day.

From placing senior dachshunds with elderly companions to running 67 kilometers for mental health awareness or feeding hungry children over the weekend, each initiative contributes to real change.

Save a Frosty Face for Mandela Day 2025

 

Cape Dachshund Rescue (CDR) is raising R40,000 this Mandela Day to cover one month of veterinary bills for 92 senior dachshunds in its care. Operating across the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and Southern Cape, the organisation runs a Frosty Face Foster programme, which matches elderly dachshunds with people between the ages of 60 and 80. Adoption fees are waived, and vet costs are fully covered, allowing for lifelong companionship without financial burden.

Each donation—especially in multiples of R67—helps ensure these senior pets continue to receive the care and love they deserve.

Donate: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/save-a-frosty-face-for-mandela-day-2025

NPO Website: https://capedachshunds.co.za/

The Chosen Runs: We See You Challenge

 

In Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, the team at Trulife is calling on the public to walk, run, or cycle 67 kilometers in July as part of the “We See You” Mandela Day Challenge. Their goal is to raise R6,700 per team to fund workshops and programs that support learners navigating trauma, often without the tools or recognition they need.

So far, over R1,900 has been raised. Additional support will help expand Trulife’s reach, allowing them to provide critical life skills and mental health education across South Africa.

Donate: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/the-chosen-runs-mandela-day-challenge-2025

Charity Website: https://trulife.org.za/about-us/

WeSeeYou teaser 2025 – YouTube

Hope & Hunger: Feed the Children of Promiseland

 

In the informal settlement of Promiseland in Palmridge, Gauteng, 47-year-old cleaner Nonkululeko “Nonny” Mda spends her weekends feeding up to 100 hungry children through her grassroots initiative, Ikhaya Lethu (Our Home). She started this mission in 2018 after witnessing the hardship children face when school meals aren’t available on weekends.

“Weekends are the hardest for children who rely on school meals. I can’t sit back and do nothing,” says Nonny. “I use my own income and rely on donations, even if it means I go without.”

Her campaign has already raised over R25,000 of its R60,000 goal, but continued support is essential to keep these children nourished every weekend.

Donate: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/hope-hunger-feed-the-children-of-promiseland

Mandela Day: Little Brains Deserve Big Futures

 

In Bellville in the Western Cape, a team of MBA students from Stellenbosch University has launched a campaign in partnership with Goldilocks and the Bear, a nonprofit that provides free mental health screenings and early intervention for children in underserved areas.

“R670 covers the full journey for one child—screening, counselling, and referrals,” the students explain. “Mental health support should never be a luxury.”

Their goal is to raise R67,000 this Mandela Day so that more children can access the mental health care they need to thrive.

Donate: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/mandela-day-little-brains-deserve-big-futures

Charity Website: Goldilocks and The Bear Foundation


Start Your Own Mandela Day Campaign

Have a cause close to your heart? You can start your own Mandela Day campaign on BackaBuddy and turn your passion into impact. Whether it’s a local clean-up, school supply drive, or a bigger community project, your 67 minutes can ripple far beyond the day itself.

Start here: Sign up to make a difference | BackaBuddy

A Mother’s Gift: Help Qiran Celebrate Her Sweet 16 in Sicily

A Mother’s Gift: Help Qiran Celebrate Her Sweet 16 in Sicily

by | Jul 15, 2025 | Campaign, Featured

In the heart of Kensington, Cape Town, a single mother’s determination and an unshakable dream are the forces behind a campaign that BackaBuddy holds close. Nicole Nicci Arrison, a Systems analyst, BackaBuddy team member, side-hustling snack box queen, social media boff and hands-on mom (Yes, we also started sweating), has set her heart on giving her daughter a sixteenth birthday gift rooted in love, culture, and family: a trip to Sicily.

Nicci doesn’t just juggle life — she flips it, spins it, and somehow makes it look effortless. She’s the kind of mom who you’d think has superpowers with the amount she juggles. And when she sets her heart on something — like tracing her family’s Sicilian roots with her daughter, Qiran — nothing is going to stand in her way.

The two share an incredibly close bond, rooted in deep trust and mutual respect.

“There’s a mutual respect between us, and we’ve created a space where she can speak openly and trust that she’ll be heard without judgment. We’ve always been a team,” says Nicci.

“Some of our most treasured moments are our daily car rides — that’s our 20-minute pocket of uninterrupted connection, full of deep chats or bursts of laughter.”

Qiran, now approaching sixteen, has always shown remarkable emotional maturity. Nicci recalls a moment she’ll never forget: after her father passed away, young Qiran wrapped her arms around her mom, held her quietly, and then softly said,
“It’s going to be okay.”

“She has this quiet emotional intelligence that’s always been there. She makes me proud daily, in ways big and small,” Nicci says.

Another memory that speaks volumes:
Even though Qiran’s team had just lost a sports match, she ran straight to the teacher of the winning team and gave her a hug to congratulate her.

“That’s just who she is — gracious, thoughtful, and humble. “Says Nicci

A Journey of Heritage and Heart

Family is everything to Nicci — and those roots run deep. At the centre is her grandmother, Ma Joyce, Qiran’s great-grandmother and the family matriarch, known for her legendary lasagna and unforgettable stories.

She’s the one who passed down not just a legendary lasagna recipe, but a legacy of culture, connection, and Sicilian heritage.

“My grandmother, Ma Joyce, is Qiran’s great-grandmother and the heart of our family. Her maiden name is Gamba, and she’s passed down both our lasagna recipe and two very different origin stories.


The more believable version is that the Gambas came to South Africa as missionaries — a legacy that lives on in our family today, with one of my uncles serving as an Anglican priest. But when she’s feeling playfully annoyed with us, Ma Joyce will claim that ‘Gamba’ is short for Gambino — and we can’t help but laugh. We don’t quite believe that one, but the stories, like the recipes, are part of our family’s beautiful and layered history.” – Nicci shares

For Nicci, the kitchen has always been a sacred space of connection for her and her family.

“Growing up, the kitchen was the heart of our family — it’s where everyone connected. If you were in the kitchen, you were either helping prep or waiting to lick the spoon, LOL.”

Like the kitchen, food has always been a way for the family to connect and be reminded of their Sicilian roots. 

“For us, food — especially Ma Joyce’s lasagna — has always been more than just a meal. It’s part of every birthday, every family gathering, every moment that matters. If you asked me what it tastes like, I’d say it tastes like first love — but the kind that wraps you in warmth and never really leaves you.”

The family believes their roots trace back to Palermo, and now Nicci wants to take her daughter on a journey that will once again bring their heritage to life.

For Nicci, this trip is more than a holiday. It’s a tribute, a legacy, and a love letter — from mother to daughter, to the place where it all began.

“This trip is meaningful because it’s more than a birthday celebration — it’s a moment for her to connect with where our family comes from. It’s about giving her the gift of experience, culture, and family roots — something she’ll remember forever.”

The mother-daughter duo picture wandering through the bustling Ballarò Market, spinning under the ancient arches of the Cattedrale di Palermo, and tossing coins into the Fontana Pretoria. And through each experience, feeling a long-lost tug from the cobbled streets and vibrant Sicilian culture of their roots — maybe even spotting a cousin with those signature mischievous eyebrows.

This trip has been a long-time dream for Qiran and Nicci, and now — thanks to a crowdfunding platform Nicci contributes to daily(and is the go-to for tech queries that could stump a rocket scientist) — it’s finally starting to feel like a possibility.

A Campaign Close to Home

In May 2025, Nicci launched her campaign: Qiran’s Super Sweet Sicilian Sixteenth, hoping to raise R65,000 to cover flights, accommodation, visas, travel insurance, and — of course — some pasta and gelato along the way.

So far, 17 donors have contributed over R2,000. It may seem like a modest start, but for Nicci, each donation is a message of support and belief.

“We’ve been so moved by the support,” she says. “A friend even offered her massage services for our fundraiser — no questions asked. It’s things like that that remind me just how kind people can be.”

Even Qiran, who usually avoids the spotlight, had something heartfelt to share:

“I feel happy and surprised — honestly, I feel lucky. Thank you to everyone who’s helping, even if you don’t know me. I really hope this trip happens. I saw a message saying my mommy is working really hard to make it possible. I hope it works out — for both of us.”

To support Nicci and Qiran’s journey, visit their campaign here:
 👉 https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/qirans-super-sweet-sicilian-sixteenth

Nine-Year-Old from Pretoria Battles Leukemia Relapse with Global Support Behind Him

Nine-Year-Old from Pretoria Battles Leukemia Relapse with Global Support Behind Him

by | Jul 11, 2025 | Campaign, Featured

Nine-year-old Amogelang Kgobe Matloga from Pretoria is facing a heartbreaking relapse of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), just months after completing his initial treatment. Yet in the face of this devastating diagnosis, it is his quiet courage and unshakable faith that have moved hearts across the country—sparking a wave of generosity as global donors rally to support his family through an online crowdfunding campaign.

Originally from the small village of Botlokwa in Polokwane, Amo is a quiet, gentle soul with a love for soccer and a deep connection to his faith.

“He likes being in charge and in control of things,” says his mother, Annah. “He really has a strong personality and a strong spirit. As young as he is, his faith is so unshakable—it amazes me every day.” 

Since his initial diagnosis in August 2024, Amo has shown resilience beyond his years. While treatment has brought many challenges, he finds comfort in his family—especially his older brother (13) and younger brother (5)—and joy in the simple moments, like outings for ice cream or time together at church.

“We are the most close-knit family one could ever ask for,” Annah says. “There is nothing we love more than spending time together, especially in the house of the Lord.”

But their lives changed dramatically when Amo relapsed in May 2025. The family’s only hope now lies in a bone marrow transplant—with his father currently identified as a 50% match. While this brings some comfort, the financial strain has grown heavier since his father lost his job in March, making it difficult to afford the ongoing hospital visits, tests, and medications.


Determined to help her son get the life-saving care he needs, Annah launched a heartfelt campaign on BackaBuddy on 19 June 2025 to raise funds for his transplant.

“After receiving news of him relapsing, my world turned upside down,” she shares. “But then I remembered who my life redeemer is—the one who created Heaven and Earth.”

Her words on the campaign page echo the strength and hope that carry their family forward:

“We humbly ask for your generosity. Your contribution, no matter the size, can make a profound difference in his fight against cancer.”

So far, the campaign has raised over R51,000 towards their R250,000 goal, with support pouring in from 176 generous donors. Every donation, every message of encouragement has helped restore the family’s hope.

“To everyone who has supported us, we will forever be grateful,” Annah says. “Your generosity really means so much to us—and to our beautiful Amogelang too.”


Thanks to this growing circle of support, the Kgobe Matloga family no longer feels alone in their fight. “May you never lack, may your pocket never run dry,” Annah says. “Your support has been greatly appreciated.”

To join their journey and contribute to Amo’s healing, visit:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/hope-of-life-for-amogelang

Help Save Lives: Register as a Bone Marrow Donor

Amogelang’s story also highlights the critical need for more registered bone marrow donors in South Africa. Finding a matching donor can mean the difference between life and death for patients like Amo.

The South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR) encourages the public to join their registry and give someone in need a second chance at life. Learn more or register today at www.sabmr.co.za.

If you would like to start a campaign on BackaBuddy to support a loved one or cause close to your heart, Annah shares these words of encouragement:

“We are so grateful for this platform. It gives us hope every day that we will reach our destination and find the helpers we need.”

Your First 14 Days on BackaBuddy: How to Give Your Campaign the Best Start

Your First 14 Days on BackaBuddy: How to Give Your Campaign the Best Start

by | Jul 8, 2025 | Fundraising Tips, Tips

Launching a crowdfunding campaign can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

This 14-day guideline is not a checklist or a rulebook. It’s a practical, compassionate roadmap built from what we’ve seen work best across thousands of successful BackaBuddy campaigns.

Each day offers one simple, doable action to help you build momentum, grow your reach, and deepen connection with your supporters — all in a way that feels authentic to you. Whether your cause is personal, joyful, or rooted in something more difficult, we’re here to help you share your story with confidence.

Use what feels right, skip what doesn’t, and come back to it anytime you need support.

Day 0: Let’s Get Your Campaign Ready to Succeed

Before sharing your campaign, here’s how to set yourself up for success:

  • Write a clear, heartfelt story (200–500 words):
      • Who you’re fundraising for
      • What the funds are for
      • Where this is happening
      • Why now
      • What donations will cover
  • End with a thank you and a call to action
    Add 3–5 high-quality, friendly images
  • Optional: Film a short 30–60 second video introducing yourself and your cause
  • Set a realistic, specific goal (e.g. R2,000 for school fees or R5,000 for medical transport)
  • Enable thank-you messages
  • Wait to verify — we’ll do that after a few donations

Read our guide: ’10 Elements for Writing a Great Backabuddy Crowdfunding Story’

Campaigns with strong stories, clear visuals, and a video raise up to 4x more.


Day 1: Start With Seed Support

Before going public, message 5–10 close friends or family privately via WhatsApp, Messenger or Email.

Suggested message:
“Hi [Name], I’ve just launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to help with [brief description – e.g. my mom’s surgery or school fees.
Before I share it more widely, I wanted to ask if you’d consider being one of the first to support it — even a small donation or a quick share would mean a lot.
Here’s the link: [insert link]“

Campaigns with early support raise up to 2x more.


Day 2: Share on WhatsApp Status and Small Groups

Once you’ve received 3–5 donations, it’s time to share a little wider.

  • Post to your WhatsApp Status
  • Share in family, school, or neighbourhood groups

Suggested message for groups:
“We’ve just launched our BackaBuddy campaign to help with [brief cause].
Thank you to everyone who’s already helped. If you’d like to support or share, here’s the link: [insert link]”

Suggested WhatsApp Status:
“Raising funds for [short cause]. Please support or share [insert link]”

How to post a WhatsApp Status:

1.Open WhatsApp
2.Tap Status
3.Tap the Pencil icon to write your message
4.Paste your link
5.Tap the spacebar after your link (this shows the preview)
6.Tap Send

Read our guide: “Promoting your crowdfunding campaign on WhatsApp”

Tip: Refresh your status every few days with thank-you updates or new progress.


Day 3: Reach Out to Your Wider Network

Think of people outside your close circle who would still care:

      • Extended family
      • Old classmates or teachers
      • Former or current colleagues
      • Church or community groups

Send a brief, warm message with your campaign link. A personal approach goes a long way.

Day 4: Post Publicly on Social Media

You’re ready to post more broadly.

 Tips:

  • Write a friendly caption (2–3 lines)
  • Add a photo or video
  • Include the donation link or say “link in bio”

Example Facebook post (150–200 words):

“We’ve launched a BackaBuddy campaign to support [Name], our [relationship if applicable – e.g. daughter or friend].
So far, we’ve raised R[amount] of our R[goal] — and we are so grateful.
Donations will help cover [short impact – e.g. physio or school fees].
Please support or share if you can.
[Insert link]

Instagram post example:

“We’ve launched a campaign to help [Name] with [brief cause].
R[amount] raised so far of our R[goal].
Every bit helps.
Link in bio.”

Tip: Pin your post to your profile and tag people who’ve supported you.

Read our guide: 7 Effective Ways to Promote Your Crowdfunding Campaign and Get Donations”


Day 5: Ask for Social Media Champions

Ask 2–3 friends or early donors to reshare your post with a personal note.

Suggested message:

“Hi [Name], thanks again for your support.
Would you mind resharing the post I shared about the campaign, and maybe adding a few words about how you know me or why you chose to support?
Here’s the link to the post: [post link]
Campaign link: [BackaBuddy link]”

Example caption they can use:

“I’m resharing this post from [Your Name].
They’re raising funds for [cause] and I’ve already donated.
If their story moves you, please donate or share: [insert link]”

Also do this:

    • Go to your campaign page > Manage Campaign > Edit
    • Add the link to your original social media post so others can find and reshare it
    • Tag and thank supporters when they reshare


Day 6: Film a Quick Campaign Video (If You Haven’t Yet)

A 30–60 second video filmed on your phone can boost donations up to 4x.

What to say:

    • Introduce yourself
    • Share what’s happening
    • Say why help is needed now
    • End with: “If you can support or share, we’d be grateful”

Use the video on:

    • Your campaign page
    • WhatsApp Status
    • Social media
    • Email to [email protected] (for help sharing with donors)


Day 7: Start Verification

Once you have a few donations:

    • Log into your dashboard
    • Upload your ID and banking details (secure and confidential)
    • Verification builds trust and allows payout

If anything is unclear, your campaign manager is here to help.


Day 8: Share in Groups or Forums

Expand your reach by sharing in:

    • Local Facebook or community groups
    • WhatsApp chats with neighbours or teams
    • Forums or cause-based spaces

Include a short, genuine message — don’t just post a link.


Day 9: Share a Story or Video Update

Post a quick thank-you or progress update to keep your story visible.

Suggested caption:

“We’ve raised R[amount] so far — thank you.
This campaign is for [Name], who is [short story].
We’re close to our goal of R[target].
If you’d like to support or share: [link]”

How to post a link in Instagram Stories:

1.Tap Stories
2.Select a photo/video
3.Tap the Sticker icon
4.Choose the Link sticker
5.Paste the link and customise text
6.Post


Day 10: Celebrate a Milestone

Whether you’ve raised R1,000 or more, thank your supporters.

Suggested caption:


“Thanks to over [donor count] people, we’ve raised R[amount] of R[goal].
This has already helped us [impact so far].
[Name] is [brief description].
This support has [e.g. lifted a huge weight].
Thank you.
If you’d like to support or share, here’s the link: [BackaBuddy link]”


Day 11: Share Again (With a New Angle)

Most people need reminders. Share again with a fresh approach:

    • Use a different photo
    • Add a short update
    • Include a quote or story
    • Mention how support is helping


Day 12: Follow Up Personally

Message people who:

    • Said they’d donate
    • Reacted but didn’t click
    • Helped in past campaigns

Use a gentle reminder:
“Hi [Name], just checking in — no pressure, but if you’d still like to support or share, here’s the link.”


Day 13: Share Your Story with the Media (Optional)

If your campaign has 20+ donations and a strong story, you can explore media coverage.

    • Write a short press release
    • Include 1–2 photos and a quote
    • Submit to platforms like MyPR or Pressportal
    • You can also contact local journalists

Read our guide: “How to Share Your Crowdfunding Campaign in the Media”


Day 14: Donor Update (Sent by BackaBuddy)

Let your donors know how it’s going.

Email [email protected] with:

    • 2–3 short sentences about progress
    • What the support has meant
    • A photo (optional)

We’ll send the update on your behalf. Donor updates keep supporters engaged and help build long-term trust.

There’s no perfect way to run a campaign. What matters is showing up, sharing honestly, and staying connected. The BackaBuddy team is here to help you every step of the way — from setting up your campaign to reaching new audiences.

If you ever feel stuck or unsure, reach out. You’re not alone — and you’ve got this. Get your questions answered by our friendly support team, Contact Us.

Finding a Bank Confirmation Letter for Your Campaign on BackaBuddy

Finding a Bank Confirmation Letter for Your Campaign on BackaBuddy

by | Jul 3, 2025 | BackaBuddy Navigation Guides, Tips

To get your campaign fully verified and ready to receive donations, you’ll need to upload a bank account confirmation letter. This letter helps us ensure the account details on your campaign are valid and linked to you (or your organisation).

We know admin isn’t the most exciting part of crowdfunding — but we’ve made it as easy as possible. Below are step-by-step instructions to help you download the letter from your bank.

If you run into any trouble, don’t worry — we’re here to help.

Absa

Using the Absa App

    1. Log in to the Absa Banking App
    2. Select your account
    3. Tap Details, then Download Confirmation Letter

Online Banking

    1. Head to absa.co.za and log in
    2. Click Accounts, then choose your account
    3. Select Account Confirmation Letter to download or email it to yourself

Capitec Bank

Using the Capitec App

    1. Open the app and log in
    2. Tap Save, then select your account
    3. Tap Send Account Details — this will email the confirmation letter to you

Online Banking

    1. Log in at capitecbank.co.za
    2. Go to Account Info, then download the letter

Prefer to go in person?
Visit any Capitec branch with your ID and they’ll print it out for you.

Discovery Bank

Using the Discovery App

    1. Log in
    2. Tap Transact, then choose your account
    3. Tap Account Details > Download Confirmation Letter

Online Banking

    1. Go to online.discovery.bank
    2. Click Accounts, choose your account
    3. Then select Download Confirmation Letter

FNB

Using the FNB App

    1. Open the app
    2. Tap your account > More
    3. Select Account Confirmation Letter

Online Banking

    1. Go to fnb.co.za and log in
    2. Click My Bank Accounts > Account Options > View Details
    3. You’ll see the option to Download or Email your letter

Nedbank

Using the Nedbank Money App

    1. Log in
    2. Tap your account, then go to Documents
    3. Select Account Confirmation Letter

Online Banking

    1. Visit nedbank.co.za and log in
    2. Click Accounts, select your account
    3. Choose Download Account Confirmation Letter

Standard Bank

Using the Standard Bank App

    1. Log in to the app
    2. Tap your account > Details
    3. Tap Send/Download Confirmation Letter

Online Banking

    1. Go to onlinebanking.standardbank.co.za
    2. Select Accounts, then your account
    3. Click Download Confirmation Letter

TymeBank

Using the TymeBank App

    1. Log in
    2. Tap your EveryDay Account
    3. Tap More Options > Download Account Confirmation Letter

Online Banking

    1. Go to tymebank.co.za and log in
    2. Click on Accounts, choose your account
    3. Select Download or Email Confirmation Letter

 

Uploading Your Letter to BackaBuddy

Once you’ve got your confirmation letter, head to your campaign dashboard, go to the Verification section, and upload your document.

Double check the following before uploading:
✔ Your full name is clearly visible
✔ Banking details match what’s listed on your campaign
✔ The letter is dated within the last 3 months
✔ The file is a PDF or clear image (JPG/PNG)

We recommend doing this as soon as you can — this is the final step before your funds can be paid out.

Need a Hand?

We’ve put together a helpful step-by-step video to walk you through the verification process:
Watch here: How to Verify Your Campaign & Get Funds

Still unsure or stuck? You’re not alone — just drop us an email on our contact page or reach out to your campaign support manager.

We’re here to help you every step of the way. You’ve got this!