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:
In the heart of Cape Town, a race unlike any other stretches across 56 kilometers of breathtaking landscapes, challenging athletes from around the world. The Two Oceans Ultra Marathon, scheduled for April 5, 2025, is more than a test of endurance, it’s a platform for change. Among the passionate runners taking on this challenge is Jaco van Schalkwyk, a man determined to make every step count for a greater purpose.
The Two Oceans Ultra Marathon is world-renowned for its scenic route, winding through Chapman’s Peak, Hout Bay, and the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Beyond its natural beauty, this event has become a beacon for social impact, bringing communities together in support of various causes.
For Jaco, this marathon is more than a race; it’s a journey to uplift 33 fatherless boys through The Character Company (TCC), a mentorship program that provides young boys with positive male role models. “By taking up the Two Oceans half-marathon challenge, I want to show these boys that someone is prepared to do extraordinary things for them. I want them to know that they are worth fighting for,” he shares.
South Africa faces a pressing crisis: according to the State of South Africa’s Fathers 2024 report, only 35.6% of children grow up with their biological fathers. The absence of paternal guidance leaves many young boys struggling with issues of self-esteem, identity, and emotional resilience. Without strong role models, they are more vulnerable to social challenges, including academic struggles, mental health concerns, and behavioral difficulties.
The Character Company seeks to bridge this gap through a structured mentorship program. By pairing boys with dedicated MENtors, TCC fosters growth through values-based activities that emphasise respect, discipline, honesty, and kindness. However, maintaining these programs requires funding, which is why van Schalkwyk has committed to raising R118,800, enough to cover a year’s mentorship for all 33 boys in the Western Cape.
The grueling course of the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon mirrors the struggles these boys face. Each uphill battle represents their hardships, and every milestone reached is a step toward a brighter future. Jaco’s determination to complete the race signifies a commitment not just to personal achievement but to a cause much greater than himself.
“This is my second year participating in the Two Oceans. I aim to raise R118,800 to support the 33 Western Cape boys in our program,” he explains. With each stride, he hopes to inspire not only his mentees but also the broader community to recognize the importance of father figures and mentorship.
Supporting Jaco’s mission extends beyond the race path. Every donation made through his BackaBuddy campaign, where he has raised over R7000 of the R118 800 goal with the help of 9 amazing donors, contributes to mentorship, nature-based activities, and life-changing camps for these boys. By investing in their future, donors play a crucial role in shaping a generation of resilient, confident young men.
The Two Oceans Ultra Marathon is more than a test of physical endurance, it’s a testament to the power of community, compassion, and unwavering support. With each kilometer conquered, Jaco and his supporters are not just running a race; they are running toward a future where every child knows they are valued and loved.
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.
Cape Town, South Africa –For 3-year-old Cody Leigh and his family, what should be a time of playful exploration has become a daunting battle against Burkitt’s Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Cody, who should be immersed in the magic of childhood, days filled with boundless curiosity, laughter, and a sneaky sprinkle of mischief, is facing the most demanding uphill battle of his young life.
In the middle of September 2024, Cody and his family’s world was turned upside down. According to the Kids-Can Cancer Foundation, Cody’s battle with cancer first began as a small lump in his tummy, the start of a whirlwind of fear, uncertainty, and pain.
“At first, we went to the local clinic, hoping it was nothing serious. The nurse was just as unsure as we were, so she immediately referred us to Karl Bremer Hospital. A series of tests followed, but they couldn’t give us any answers just yet,” explains Cody’s mother.
As the weeks passed, another lump appeared, and the family’s concerns grew. A referral to Tygerberg Hospital led to further tests and scans in search of answers. What followed was a moment that no parent should ever have to endure.
“We were told we needed to go to Tygerberg Hospital for further testing. And that’s when the unimaginable happened. On October 7th, 2024, Cody was officially diagnosed with Burkitt’s Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Our hearts shattered,” she says.
Cody’s journey has been nothing short of grueling. The relentless cycle of painful tests and treatment has taken an immense toll, both physically and emotionally. For his mother, the strain has been compounded by financial hardship. Having to leave her job to be by Cody’s side during his treatment, the family now faces a crisis beyond the medical battle.
“We’ve been struggling to make ends meet. On top of the mounting medical bills, I’ve been unable to put food on the table for Cody, his 11-year-old sister Skyler, and myself. The last thing we should be worrying about right now is how to survive financially while Cody fights for his life,” she explains.
To help alleviate this financial strain, a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign has been launched, and thanks to the generosity of 19 incredible donors, R6,000 has already been raised toward the R20,000 goal.
Donations will go directly toward Cody’s treatment and medical expenses, ensuring he receives the critical care he needs while also providing essential support for his family during this challenging time.
In the remote village of Gazini, KwaZulu-Natal, 13-year-old Sikholelwe Zikhali, a bright and motivated Grade 7 student at Mankunzi Primary School, has spent years overcoming immense challenges in pursuit of attending school. But now, as she prepares to transition to high school, the greatest obstacle yet threatens to stand in her way.
Pictured above: 13-year-old Sikholelwe Zikhali
Sikholelwe, who developed paraplegia at the age of five, faces a daily struggle to get to school. Each morning, she wakes up, washes, dresses, and is helped into her home wheelchair. From there, she is swung onto her mother, Khululiwe Sibiya (51), back and is carried three kilometers through thick beach sand before being transferred into her school wheelchair. The journey is grueling, but it is the only way she can access an education. At school, her friends assist her up a broken patio into a cramped prefab classroom, where she transfers out of her wheelchair onto a standard desk-and-bench setup. Despite these challenges, she remains dedicated to her studies, performing well according to her teachers and principal.
Her academic achievements are remarkable, she consistently scores a Level 7 in English, and even in her most challenging subject, Mathematics, she maintains a solid Level 5. “She is very smart,” her family shares proudly. “Being able to continue in school will definitely give her the opportunities she needs to make the most of her life!”
Pictured above: Sikholelwe with her mother Khululiwe Sibiya and her brother
During breaks, Sikholelwe enjoys throwing a ball or sitting under a tree with her friends. Even the simplest of tasks, like using the toilet, require assistance. Two of her closest friends accompany her to the pit toilets, helping her navigate the uneven and elevated platform. Each day, this routine is repeated, a testament to her resilience and the unwavering support of her mother and friends.
However, as Sikholelwe grows, so does the strain on her mother, who carries her to and from school. With no public transport options available and no wheelchair capable of handling the deep sand, the family has tirelessly advocated for a solution. For three years, they have brought their concerns before local and district government officials, department of education representatives, and disability office representatives. Yet, nothing has changed.
Pictured above: Sikholelwe being carried to school by her mother
The biggest fear is that without an alternative means of getting to school, Sikholelwe may be forced to drop out, an unthinkable outcome for a young girl with such promise. The local rehabilitation department, known for its extensive wheelchair services, has provided various models, but none are designed to handle the challenging terrain. Even power chairs, often considered a viable mobility solution, fail within meters of use due to the thick sand. The available options simply do not meet the demands of Sikholelwe’s daily journey.
Hope, however, has emerged in the form of an adapted Segway, a revolutionary mobility device capable of tackling the rugged landscape of Gazini. Unlike conventional wheelchairs, this Segway features fat tires and a self-balancing gyro mechanism, allowing it to navigate deep sand, bush paths, and inclines with ease. Sikholelwe, her parents Khululiwe and Nkosinathi Zikhali (51), and the local wheelchair services manager have tested the chair, and the results were undeniable, it outperforms anything currently available. Additionally, its long-term maintenance costs are lower than those of a traditional power chair, making it a sustainable solution for the years ahead.
For Sikholelwe, the Segway represents more than just mobility, it’s a gateway to a fuller, more independent life. “I’m so excited to finally have independence, to play, visit my friends, go to church, and even watch a soccer game,” Sikholelwe shares. “It will make such a difference for me and help take some of the burden off my mother. I know having it will make me more confident and independent.”
Her mother expresses her unwavering love and devotion. “Children are a gift from God, and this one is so special,” she says with a smile. “I will do anything to help her, it’s not a chore for me. Sikholelwe is an exceptional child.“
With this Segway, Sikholelwe will not only be able to continue her education but will also gain access to her community in ways she never has before. No longer reliant on friends to visit her at home, she will be able to attend community meetings, watch sports games, and participate fully in village life. It is a chance to break free from isolation and embrace independence.
To turn this life-changing opportunity into reality, a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign has been launched. Thanks to the generosity of 43 donors, the family has already raised over R65,000 toward their R150,000 goal. These funds are urgently needed to secure the adapted Segway, with all donations going directly to the supplier to ensure Sikholelwe receives the mobility device she needs. Depending on the total funds raised, the Segway base and chair will be purchased together or separately.
“We probably can’t put this into words properly, but thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. God bless each one of you for your donations and care. Sikholelwe has already shown extraordinary resilience, refusing to let circumstances dictate her future. Now, she needs a community to rally behind her and help remove the barriers that stand in her way. Every contribution brings her closer to the independence she deserves, ensuring that she can continue her education and one day pursue her dream of becoming a doctor.” the family shares.
George, Western Cape, South Africa – Lynnette (Lynn) Blignaut is calling for global support from Thailand, where her daughter, Ashley Oosthuizen (26), has been wrongfully imprisoned for five years now. Lynnette has launched a crowdfunding campaign through BackaBuddy to manage living and legal expenses as they continue to fight for Ashley’s release.
Background
After graduating from Outeniqua High School in George, Western Cape, Ashley moved to Thailand in 2018. She initially worked as a teacher on the island of Koh Samui, but after being laid off, she secured a managerial position at the restaurant Hot in the Biscuit, offering her a fresh start and hope for a stable, fulfilling life in Thailand.
However, her dreams were abruptly shattered on 8 October 2020, when Ashley unknowingly accepted and signed for a package containing 250g of MDMA, intended for someone else. Despite her innocence, she was implicated and arrested, leading to a wrongful conviction.
Pictured above: Ashley Oosthuizen
Heartbreakingly, at just 22 years old, Ashley was sentenced to death. After a lengthy legal battle, her sentence was reduced to life imprisonment and later reduced again to 33.4 years. However, justice has not yet been served. Her next appeal in Thailand’s High Court remains pending, with no court date yet confirmed. If clemency is not granted, Ashley will only be released at the age of 56.
Ashley’s Reality
Despite the challenges of prison life, Ashley has shown remarkable resilience. Her Thai is now excellent, enabling her to communicate and build friendships with fellow inmates. These connections provide mutual support and a sense of security in an environment where vulnerability is a constant risk.
Every day is a battle—to endure, to stay hopeful—but she remains grounded in her faith, and has learned to put her trust in the living God, offering help to others and reading whenever possible, though she is only allowed nine books a year.
Lynnette expressed the heartbreak of being unable to protect her daughter, saying, “Ashley’s resilience, but most of all, my trust in Father God’s care for her, gives me hope despite the uncertain future she faces.”
For years, Lynnette and Ashley were only allowed to see each other through a Perspex divider, speaking for just 15 to 20 minutes, twice a week, at a time via phone, each confined to separate rooms. But on Friday, 24 January 2025, for the first time in nearly six years, Lynnette was granted a contact visit with Ashley—a deeply emotional reunion.
Pictured Above: Ashley Oosthuizen with her mom, Lynnette Blignaut. (January 2025)
Ashley’s Needs
Ashley still needs financial support for daily survival, as prisons in Thailand do not provide basic necessities—they provide watered-down rice three times a day, often containing questionable foreign objects. To stay healthy, Ashley must buy her own food, toiletries, bottled water (as the available water is not always safe to drink), and pay for laundry.
Lynnette continues to fight for her daughter, saying, “As a mother, I did what any parent would—I uprooted my entire life and moved to Thailand in 2022 to be close to Ashley, visit her, and fight for her freedom. Staying here is crucial, as leaving would be devastating for her. However, due to visa restrictions, I am unable to work, and without a source of income at the moment, and my savings running out quickly, I would soon have to rely entirely on donations to cover Ashley’s daily needs in prison as well as my own living expenses while I remain by her side.”
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
To help cover these essential expenses, Lynnette has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. Donations will support Ashley’s daily needs in prison, including food, bottled water, hygiene products, and laundry, which amount to approximately ฿14,700 (R7,791) per month. Additionally, any unexpected legal costs may arise, adding to the financial burden.
Funds will also help Lynnette remain in Thailand, ensuring she can continue visiting and advocating for Ashley—something vital to Ashley’s mental and emotional well-being. Her living expenses total around ฿17,000 (R9,010) per month.
Combined, their monthly expenses amount to ฿31,700 (R16,801). A full breakdown of costs is available on the crowdfunding page.
The campaign has already raised almost R40 000 from 59 donors in just four days, demonstrating Ashley’s incredible support network and the widespread compassion for her cause. These funds are managed through Hearts4Ashley, an NPC established to support Ashley’s fight for justice.
“To everyone who has supported us along the way—whether through donations, prayers, messages, or simply caring about Ashley—thank you. Your kindness and generosity have carried us through the hardest moments, and knowing that so many people care about my daughter means more than words can express.”
Follow Lynnette for Updates
Lynnette posts regular updates on Ashley’s situation and their fight for justice through the following social media pages:
