October is Mental Health Awareness Month globally, and for the past 30 years, the Cape Town International Kite Festival has played a pivotal role in helping people speak openly about their mental health without fear of stigma. As the flagship event of Cape Mental Health since 1994, the Kite Festival creates a space for artists, ambassadors, mental health care users, volunteers, and the public to share their stories of pain, healing, and recovery. Each conversation chips away at the stigma, fostering an environment of non-judgmental and supportive dialogue around mental health.
Photo by: Sulize Terreblanche
As Glenn Close once said, “What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.” The Cape Town International Kite Festival is exactly that – a celebration of openness and a call for everyone to engage in meaningful discussions around mental health.
The Need for Mental Health Support
Mental health issues are more common than many realize, and as the world faces ongoing economic, social, and personal challenges, mental well-being becomes increasingly important. Cape Mental Health aims to provide interventions that restore hope, build resilience, and empower individuals and communities.
This year’s theme, #HopeOnAString, is a powerful metaphor for resilience. Just as a kite rises higher despite the fragility of the string that holds it, so do individuals rise above life’s challenges. Each pull of the string reminds us of the inner strength and resilience within us all. The festival is more than a celebration of kites; it shines a light on those facing mental health challenges, underscoring the importance of early intervention and support.
Growing Awareness Over 30 Years
Since its inception, the Cape Town International Kite Festival has grown from a small one-day event to a global kite-flying phenomenon. The festival now hosts local, national, and international kiters, pop-up kite displays, community flies, EduKite Competitions, entertainment, kite-making workshops, and much more. The event has become a platform for mental health awareness, encouraging the inclusion of children, youth, and adults with mental disabilities.
With more young people speaking openly about their mental health challenges, the festival has shifted the narrative, empowering attendees to voice their needs and concerns while advocating for the protection of mental well-being.
Photo by: Sulize Terreblanche
Event Highlights
Pop-Up Fly Event: Held at Melkbosstrand Beach on Sunday, 27 October 2024, featuring professional kiters such as Mari and Bradley Ware-Lane, Bobby Gathoo, Brian Skinner, and others. Expect a few surprises from international kiters as well!
Community Fly: On 23 October, the annual Community Fly at Heideveld Sports Field on the Cape Flats will welcome children with intellectual disabilities from CMH’s Special Education & Care Centres, along with Grade R learners and preschools from the Heideveld community.
EduKite Competition: A kite-making and kite-decorating competition for primary schools, including children with special educational needs, offering monetary prizes for the winning teams. The prize-giving will be hosted at Curro Century City on 26 October, supporting mental health awareness.
Help Make a Difference: Support the Cape Mental Health BackaBuddy Campaign
Cape Mental Health has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, aiming to raise R250,000 in anticipation of the Cape Town International Kite Festival. So far, the campaign has raised R2,250, and with your help, they can reach their target.
Your donations will enable Cape Mental Health to continue its vital work, expanding mental health services to vulnerable children and adults in disadvantaged communities. Every contribution, whether R100 or R10,000, will make a significant impact in providing mental health support and building resilience in those who need it most.
As the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to place strain on non-profit organisations, Cape Mental Health remains resilient but depends on public and corporate donations to sustain its community-based mental health programmes.
By donating to the BackaBuddy campaign, you are helping to provide critical mental health interventions, offering hope and support to those in need. Every donation, no matter the size, is a step toward creating a brighter, healthier future for vulnerable individuals and families. All proceeds will go directly toward Cape Mental Health’s mission of providing free, accessible mental healthcare services.
Celebrities Rally Behind the Cause
Cape Mental Health has gained the support of several notable South African celebrities who are passionate about mental health advocacy:
These celebrities are lending their voices to raise awareness and encourage donations, helping Cape Mental Health reach its fundraising goal and continue the important work of breaking the stigma around mental health.
About the Cape Town International Kite Festival
Since 1994, Cape Mental Health has proudly hosted the Cape Town International Kite Festival, Africa’s oldest kiting event, dedicated to raising awareness and funds for mental health. This year’s festival marks the 30th anniversary of an event that brings together the joy of kiting with the importance of mental wellness.
For more information on the Cape Town International Kite Festival, visit www.capementalhealth.co.za/HopeOnAString and discover how you can participate, support, or donate to this remarkable cause.
At BackaBuddy, we cherish our diverse donor community and are committed to protecting your trust. To keep our platform secure and transparent, our dedicated team works diligently to verify every crowdfunding campaign before processing payouts and activating charity profiles.
We want you to know that these processes are designed to uphold the values of trust and goodwill. They reflect our commitment to our community, not a judgment on your cause or efforts.
How It Works
When donations come in, they’re safely held in the BackaBuddy bank account until we can verify your campaign and ensure it’s ready for payout. Whenever you’re ready, simply log in and submit your documents.
Just a heads-up: your verification documents will only be reviewed after we receive your first donation. Our team is here for you, so please allow up to 5 working days for feedback on your submission.
How Do I Get My Campaign Verified?
To make the verification process as smooth as possible and to ensure a prompt payout for your campaign, please follow these friendly steps:
Log in to your account.
Navigate to the menu and click on Profile.
Go to My Campaigns, then click the down arrow next to your campaign.
Select Manage Campaign, then click on Verification.
Submit the requested documents and banking details.
What Documents Will Be Requested?
Proof of Identity of the Campaign Creator (choose one of the following):
Identity document
Passport
Driver’s license
Supporting Documentation
Any documents that help clarify your campaign or explain its goals are welcome. Please ensure all submissions are legible and clear. Check out the next section for examples!
Banking Details
Please provide the bank account details where you’d like your funds sent. We’ll need proof of your bank account, ideally dated within the last 3 months.
How to Request Payout
Self-Managed Campaigns:
Once your campaign shows the verified badge, you’re all set for payout! When you’re ready, follow these simple steps:
Log in to your profile.
Go to Menu > Profile > My Campaigns.
Click the down arrow next to your campaign > Manage Campaign.
Select Payout Request.
Our finance team will take care of your request and typically requires up to 10 working days to process it.
Blue Tick Campaigns:
If you have a Blue Tick campaign, you’re in luck! It’s immediately eligible for payout. To request it, just follow these steps:
Log in to your profile.
Go to Menu > Profile > My Campaigns.
Click the down arrow next to your campaign > Manage Campaign.
Select Payout Request.
Don’t forget to submit a payout document with your request, such as an invoice, statement, or receipt for reimbursement. Just a little reminder: you can only request one payment at a time, so please wait until the previous one is completed before submitting another.
Examples of Supporting Documents per category
Individuals
Medical
Doctor’s report
Medical report
Medical aid letter
Pharmacy account
Hospital discharge note
Hospital invoice
In Loving Memory
Death certificate
Funeral home invoice
Fire/Drought/Disaster Support
Fire report
Police report
Invoices for replacing damaged goods
Education
Fee statement
Registration letter
Acceptance letter
Sports
Invitation to the sports event
Letter confirming the intention to attend
Women & Girls
Invoices for items to be purchased
Letter from the organization if partnering
Animals
Vet bill
Invoice from the vet
Creative/Arts
For art conventions (IMTA, iPOP, etc.) – invitation to the event
For equipment (musical instruments/videography equipment) – invoices from the supplier
Food & Hunger
Invoices from suppliers
Receipt for items bought (for reimbursement)
Environment
Permits – depending on the intended use of funds
Invoices for equipment
Children
If clothes are being purchased – invoices for clothing
If for school fees – fee statement per child
If raising funds for a school – a letter from the school principal
Community Development
If partnering with a charity/organization – a letter confirming the intent of the campaign
Invoices for food items to be purchased (pay directly)
Business/App
Business plans
Business registration documents
Budgets
Charities
A valid NPO certificate
Active social media pages (more than 1 year old)
A clear image of the charity/NPO logo
Please remember that any documentation you submit won’t be displayed on your campaign page. However, they play a crucial role in our verification process, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Navigating life after a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re seeking emotional support, medical funding, or guidance on nutrition and wellness, there are resources available to help you every step of the way. This guide brings together some of the most helpful tools for cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones. From connecting with others who truly understand, to finding practical advice, these resources are here to remind you that hope and support are always within reach.
Crowdfunding for Medical Procedures: Accessing the Care You Need
The cost of cancer treatments can add stress to an already difficult situation. Crowdfunding provides a way to share your story and raise the funds needed for essential medical procedures. By reaching out to your community, you open the door for friends, family, and even strangers to contribute to your care. Each donation helps reduce the financial burden and brings you closer to getting the treatment you need.
At BackaBuddy, we offer a platform to share your story and raise funds for life-saving procedures. You’re not just raising funds—you’re building a network of people who care deeply about your health and well-being.Start your campaign on BackaBuddy.
Finding Your Cancer Buddy: Someone Who Gets It
Connecting with others who’ve faced similar challenges can make a world of difference. In South Africa,Cancer Buddies pairs you with someone who understands what you’re going through and offers emotional support. Sharing your journey with a cancer buddy can provide comfort, encouragement, and a sense of solidarity, reminding you that you are not alone in this fight.
Nutrition and Exercise: Strengthening Your Body Through Wellness
Focusing on nutrition and exercise is a positive way to take control of your health. South Africa’sCANSA offers nutritional guidance specifically for cancer patients, ensuring you’re nourishing your body in ways that support healing. Gentle exercise can also improve your strength and mood, giving you a sense of empowerment during your treatment.
Hospice Care: Comfort and Peace for You and Your Loved Ones
For those needing end-of-life care, hospice offers compassion and comfort. South Africa’sHospice Palliative Care Association (HPCA) ensures that you and your family receive the care and support needed during this difficult time. Hospice services focus on providing dignity, peace, and relief from pain, helping families navigate these moments with care and respect.
Free Counseling and Emotional Support: A Space to Heal
The emotional toll of cancer can be just as significant as the physical one. In South Africa, CancerCare and PinkDrive provide free support services. PinkDrive focuses on early detection, education, and support for breast cancer patients, offering free mammograms and educational resources through their mobile clinics. Having someone to listen, provide guidance, or offer practical assistance can be a valuable source of strength during your cancer journey.
Many cancer patients find hope in participating in clinical trials that test new treatments. TheSouth African Clinical Trials Registry offers information about ongoing cancer trials. Globally, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) provides details about clinical trials for various types of cancer, offering opportunities for patients to access cutting-edge therapies.
Cancer Support Groups: Building a Community of Strength
In addition to one-on-one cancer buddies, local and online cancer support groups can offer community, comfort, and encouragement.Reach for Recovery is a South African-based volunteer organisation providing emotional and practical support to breast cancer patients. Globally, online platforms likeCancer Support Community allow patients and families to join virtual support groups, offering a safe space to share experiences and receive guidance.
Apps for Support and Organization
Technology can help make managing your care easier. The CANSA iSurvivor app, specifically designed for South African cancer patients, offers tailored information and support. Apps likeCareZone can help organise medications, appointments, and important health details, allowing you to focus on your well-being without worrying about the logistics.
Books to Inspire and Guide You
Books can be a source of comfort and wisdom as you navigate the challenges of cancer. Here are a few that may resonate with you:
Social media platforms can provide real-time support and community engagement. Following organisations likeCANSA on Facebook andTwitter keeps you informed about events, resources, and stories of hope. These networks remind you that, even online, you’re part of a larger community that’s rooting for your recovery.
You Are Never Alone
In this journey, remember that your diagnosis does not define you. You are part of a vast network of support, ready to stand by you through every challenge—be it financial, emotional, or practical. Your story is unique and powerful, and each step you take toward healing is a testament to your strength and resilience.
If you know someone who might benefit from this support, please share this resource with them. Your willingness to connect can make a meaningful difference in their journey.
Tom London, a well-known talk show host and activist from Johannesburg, recently found himself facing a life-threatening health crisis that took him from the wards of Helen Joseph Hospital to the screens of social media. His ordeal not only ignited a critical conversation about the state of South Africa’s public healthcare system but also revealed the incredible power of collective support.
Tom’s health crisis began with a simple chest cold, which escalated into a severe case of pneumonia and pleural effusion. He was admitted to Helen Joseph Hospital, where he experienced firsthand the challenges of the public healthcare system. Documenting his ordeal from his hospital bed, Tom shared raw and emotional videos on social media, expressing his frustration with the neglect and inadequate care he witnessed. “Doctors here, you are giving doctors in South Africa a bad name. I am so angry with you. This is the Helen Joseph Circus Hospital, where doctors experiment on you,” Tom said in one of his viral videos.
His candid accounts of the harsh realities inside the hospital, including the heartbreaking experience of witnessing a fellow patient pass away without immediate assistance, resonated with thousands of South Africans. Many shared similar stories of their own experiences within the public healthcare system, calling attention to the urgent need for reform.
Amidst the distress, something remarkable unfolded as South Africans from all walks of life united in support of Tom after a concerned South African, Alistair Jameson, took the initiative to launch a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign, closely following Tom’s journey, to raise the R300,000 required for his life-saving thoracic surgery. In an extraordinary display of solidarity, the goal was surpassed within days, with donations flowing in from across the country and beyond. Thanks to the generosity of 561 donors, Tom successfully raised R368,000, ensuring his surgery would proceed. BackaBuddy paid the funds directly to Morningside Hospital on the afternoon of Monday, September 16, 2024.
Within hours of sharing his urgent need for medical attention at a private hospital, donations began pouring in. “Thank you for everything today. You saved my life,” Tom expressed in gratitude after securing enough funds to transfer to a facility where he could receive the critical care he so desperately needed.
The surgery, discounted to R275,000, leaves the remaining funds to support Tom’s ongoing care and recovery. BackaBuddy CEO, Patrick Schofield, reflects on the overwhelming support, stating, “We’re just glad that we’ve been able to provide a platform for this immense community of people who’ve supported Tom. It speaks volumes about the love and respect people have for him. Our part was to ensure that support reached the hospital as quickly as possible so he could have the operation and focus on getting better.”.
While Tom’s battle with illness was deeply personal, his story sparked a broader movement, reigniting calls for change within the public healthcare system. His viral videos shone a spotlight on the shortcomings of the system, but they also underscored the strength of community when people unite for a common cause.
As Tom continues his recovery, his story remains a symbol of hope and a call for change. It highlights not only the challenges within the public healthcare system but also the profound compassion and generosity that defines South Africa.
On Friday, 6th September, a devastating power surge in Chasedene, Pietermaritzburg, reduced 80% of Theresa and Deon Pienaar’s family home to rubble in minutes. The remaining part of the house was submerged in water as firefighters battled the flames.
Now, their children—Zane Groenewald (31), Natasha Hodge (43), Kirsty Olwagen (35), and Nadine Du Plooy (24)—are rallying together to help their parents rebuild their lives.
From left to right: Zane, Kirsty, Theresa, Devan Marx (nephew), Natasha, Deon, Nadine
Theresa Pienaar, co-founder of Porky’s People—a Pietermaritzburg-based charity with a big heart and a grassroots mission to provide food, clothing, and other essentials to families in need—recalled the terrifying moments before the fire engulfed their home. She had been preparing snacks for two memorials scheduled for the next day when her foster son (7), who has who has special needs, alerted her to smoke coming down the passage. By that point, the cupboards in the main bedroom were already on fire.
Rushing out the front door to gather her two foster children, Theresa shouted for someone to call the fire department.
The fire, which started in the bedroom, quickly spread throughout the house. In a brave attempt to smother the flames with a blanket, Theresa’s hand was injured and she was later taken to the hospital for treatment.
Zane, who has been the Marketing and PR Manager at BackaBuddy for 7 years, where he has helped run crowdfunding campaigns for a wide range of causes—from medical emergencies to disaster relief and acts of kindness—reflected on the devastation: “My siblings and I received a call from our mother on Friday night, telling us that our family home was in flames. The relentless blaze had already claimed most of the house, reducing our belongings and cherished memories to ash and rubble. Realizing the extent of the damage and what it would take to rebuild, we launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, appealing to our incredible community for support to help get our parents back on their feet.”
With the siblings spread across different cities in South Africa, the crowdfunding campaign became a vital way for them to come together and support their parents during this difficult time.
“Zane is in Johannesburg, Natasha is in Cape Town, I’m in Kuruman, and Nadine is in Pietermaritzburg. We couldn’t physically be there to help, but this campaign gave us a way to unite and feel less helpless,” Kirsty shared. “I’ll never forget the pain in my mother’s voice when she realized that everything she and my stepfather had built over a lifetime was gone.”
The campaign has raised R67,825 so far, with support from 43 donors both locally and internationally.
“We’ve received donations ranging from R50 to R20,000, from friends, family, the generous Pietermaritzburg community, and even strangers. Every contribution and message of support has meant the world to our family,” Kirsty said.
In addition to the financial support, the family has also received donations of clothes, household items, and other essentials.
“Throughout our lives, our mom has always been there for others, helping in both big and small ways without ever expecting anything in return,” said Natasha Hodge, one of Theresa’s daughters. “It’s truly heartwarming to see the community stepping in to help her and my stepdad in their time of need.”
Currently, the family is in the process of clearing out their home, assessing the damage, and seeing what can be salvaged.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Zane shared:
“In the hours of unimaginable loss and anguish, the love and kindness from our family, friends, neighbors, and even perfect strangers have chipped away at our hurt, reminding us that we are not alone,” said Zane Groenewald. “We can dust ourselves off, let go, rebuild, and start again.”
“This ordeal has put us face to face with our greatest fears, but we have also laughed through tears and learned in losing everything, that ‘things’ didn’t make this house a home after all. Our memories in our home, and those to come, are fireproof and are always ours to keep.”
To support the Pienaar family’s rebuilding efforts, donations can be made via BackaBuddy:
“Thank you to everyone who has helped us through this incredibly difficult time. To those who shared our story, checked in on us, sent messages, and offered prayers: we are deeply grateful. You’ve reminded us that we have so much to be thankful for,” said Nadine, the youngest daughter of Theresa and Deon.
With the strength of their community behind them, the Pienaar family remains hopeful as they begin the journey of rebuilding their home.
Tessa Gough, a 26-year-old product owner of the start-up Savvy Sites and a dedicated runner from Cape Town, will lace up her shoes and embark on a gruelling 250km journey through the Kalahari Desert as part of the Kalahari Augrabies Extreme Marathon (KAEM) on 14 September 2024. This challenge is not just a test of physical endurance; it’s a mission to raise awareness about period poverty in South Africa.
Pictured above: Tessa Gough
“I discovered the KAEM through Erica Terblanche’s book, ‘Run for Life.’ Erica, a renowned ultra-distance runner in South Africa, inspired me to pursue the extreme challenge of desert running. The self-supported race, where participants carry all their essentials for seven days in the desert, symbolises the resilience and self-sufficiency women demonstrate daily. My goal is to inspire young girls in South Africa to chase their dreams, no matter how audacious they may seem, and to remind them of their ability to support themselves and their ambitions. Partnering with Mama Flo, an organisation helping provide women with access to free period products, period education and agency to empower themselves, highlights the message that young women can achieve anything they aspire to.“says Tessa
As of 2024, the reality for many girls in South Africa remains dire. An astonishing 7 million girls still lack access to or cannot afford basic sanitary products. In 2023, approximately 30% of young girls missed school during their menstrual cycle due to the inability to afford these essential items, resulting in around 90 days of lost education each year, solely because of menstruation.
It is astonishing that in 2024, access to free sanitary pads for every woman is still not a reality. This stark situation inspired Tessa to partner with Mama Flo, an incredible Cape Town-based organisation that works tirelessly to provide every girl who menstruates with access to period freedom, free period education, and essential menstrual products. Founded in 2020, Mama Flo has quickly become a symbol of hope, offering both short and long-term solutions to period poverty.
Pictured above: Laurie Shone, Isabella Bisogno, and Melissa Zackon, the wonderful team behind Mama Flo
Mama Flo’s approach is a multifaceted organisation which is built around three pillars, which offers:
Workshops: These are more than just educational sessions; they are platforms for empowerment, mentorship, and community building. By engaging with young women in schools and communities, these workshops foster a sense of urgency and self-worth.
Pad Handouts: Immediate relief is provided through small and large-scale handouts of sanitary pads, giving girls the confidence and ability to attend school and participate fully in their lives.
Ambassadors and Interns: Through training and mentorship, Mama Flo cultivates leaders within communities. Their ambassadors, who are on the ground, play a vital role in promoting empowerment and uplifting those around them. This is an important element of the work Mama Flo does as it ensures no matter what, communities are getting a hand up and not simply a hand out.
“Growing up in South Africa, I witnessed the challenges young women face, from gender violence to lack of access to menstrual products, which often keeps them from participating in sports and activities. I’m running this ultra-endurance race to inspire others and highlight the importance of providing basic sanitary products. I’ve partnered with Mama Flo for their impactful, community-focused work in raising awareness about period poverty.” adds Tessa
Tessa believes that every girl should have the freedom to move, dance, learn, and reach her full potential without the burden of worrying about sanitary products—a basic human right. By supporting this journey, individuals are not just backing a demanding desert run; they are investing in a future where all girls can thrive and move their bodies freely.
“Period poverty is personal to me. I was fortunate enough to have access to menstrual products, but many young women in our country are denied this basic right, highlighting ongoing systemic inequalities. Mama Flo’s mission to provide free menstruation products is vital, as I believe every girl deserves this fundamental right. Without access, girls are held back from participating in sports, academics, and daily life. To reduce inequality, we must start by ensuring basic access to essential sanitary products, giving girls the best chance to reach their full potential.” Tessa told us
The goal is to raise R70,000 through their BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign to provide 500 reusable sanitary pad packs to girls in need. Each pack contains four reusable pads, which can last up to five years. With the incredible support of Mama Flo, this goal can become a reality.
“The funds will be used to purchase packs of reusable sanitary pads (each pack is R170 and can last a girl up to 5 years!). My hope is to purchase 500 packs of these as well as help fund the distribution and educational workshops that Mama Flo facilitates as part of these pad handouts and workshops. The Mama Flo team has said that the education piece is crucial as we don’t just want to facilitate distribution but also aim to ensure empowerment through education about women’s sexual health and give them a platform to use their powerful voices.Thank you from the bottom of my heart to each and every donor! Every bit counts towards our goal of ending period poverty in South Africa. By supporting my journey and Mama Flo’s mission, you’re helping to break down barriers and empower girls to reach their full potential.” Tessa concludes
Photo by: Sulize Terreblanche
Photo by: Sulize Terreblanche
