In a world where many take education for granted, two exceptional athletes from George, are taking extraordinary steps to ensure that others can access the same opportunities they were fortunate enough to receive. Sebastian Prentice and Jason Hofmeyr, driven by their belief in the transformative power of education, are setting out on a gruelling 100-mile (163 km) race through the Outeniqua Mountains on Friday, May 24. Their mission? To raise funds and awareness for Usapho Indlu, a George-based non-profit dedicated to uplifting the local community.
The Challenge
Sebastian and Jason’s race is part of the Mountain Ultra-Trail (MUT) of the Ultra Trail de Mont Blanc (UTMB) festival, a series of trail races that test the limits of human endurance. Covering varied and challenging terrain, this race is not just a physical test but a testament to the athletes’ commitment to their cause. Their goal is ambitious: to raise R350 000 to establish a learning centre for local students and to purchase a vehicle to facilitate transportation to and from the centre.
The Cause
Education in South Africa faces significant challenges. It is estimated that less than 40% of South Africans complete high school. This statistic reflects a larger issue of educational inequity, which Sebastian and Jason are passionate about addressing. Their chosen beneficiary, Usapho Indlu, under the leadership of CEO Sally Versfeld, works tirelessly to empower families in the George area. Their programs focus on unlocking potential and fostering a sense of identity among community members.
“Each household is surveyed and through the survey they inform Usapho Indlu of their individual needs. Support is tailored to map out a pathway that is sustainable, healthy, and realistic for all members of the family. Extreme challenges facing these families include lack of transport for children, poor nutrition, no support system with homework as well as abuse in schools.” Versfeld told the George Herald
Versfeld highlights that one of the most common requests from families involved in their outreach is for better educational opportunities for their children. Many parents, themselves uneducated and unemployed, see education as the key to a brighter future. The funds raised by Sebastian and Jason will help Usapho Indlu meet these needs more effectively, particularly by reducing the heavy costs currently spent on transportation like Ubers and hired vehicles.
“This will be the focus of our fundraiser. Our aim is to better equip the Education Centre, where 42 children from 27 households attend. In addition, the transport situation in the community is unsafe, expensive and out of the reach of the learners.” says Sebastian and Jason.
A Call to Action
The public’s support is crucial to achieving this goal. Donations are being collected through Sebastian and Jason’s BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign. So far, the campaign has raised just over R46 000. Every contribution, no matter how small, brings the community closer to realising the dream of a dedicated learning centre and reliable transportation for students.
How You Can Help
Sebastian and Jason’s journey is not just a race; it is a powerful statement of solidarity and hope. By donating to their campaign on BackaBuddy under “100 Miles for Education,” you can join them in making a tangible difference in the lives of young learners in George.
Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) in South Africa remains a severe crisis, with over 4,000 women killed by men last year alone. With this alarming reality, Women For Change (WFC), a nationwide non-profit organisation (NPO), has been a crucial support system for survivors, offering advocacy and a voice to those silenced by violence. Despite their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts, WFC now stands on the brink of closure due to financial instability.
Rising Against Challenges
Women For Change initially gained recognition by hosting successful Women For Change Races between 2016 and 2019 to raise awareness against GBV. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 halted their events. Refusing to let their efforts against GBV die down, WFC turned to social media as a powerful tool for change. They began amplifying their message, sharing stories of South African women, and providing support to survivors on their journey.
Caption: Clareinch Post Office, Cape Town
The organisation’s reach has grown remarkably, boasting nearly 400,000 followers across all social media platforms. Each month, they assist over a thousand survivors, offering a safe space for healing and empowerment. In April 2024 alone, they garnered over 28 million impressions across social media channels. More than 1 million people engage with their content monthly, creating a supportive and active community. Yet, despite these impressive numbers, the organisation’s operations are threatened by a lack of sustainable funding.
“We’re Stretched to Our Limits”
“The funding challenge WFC faces is exceptionally dire. For the past four years, I have been running this organisation primarily on my own, without any external funding,” shares founder Sabrina Walter.
“Without funding, we can’t continue our work. We’re stretched to our limits. If we don’t secure funding by August 2024, we’ll be forced to cease operations, leaving countless survivors without the support they rely on.”
Despite these limitations, WFC has made significant strides. The emotional toll of the work is immense, yet the courage of survivors and their families keeps Walter inspired and motivated. Witnessing survivors achieve justice and reclaim their power brings immense pride, even though true justice often remains elusive.
Caption: In Front of Parliament, Cape Town – GBV March 2021
“I haven’t witnessed much justice, but I’ve seen resilience and strength. Many stories have become a part of me and inspire me to work harder,” says Walter. “We need more than just passion; we need resources to keep operating.”
Reflecting on the impact of WFC’s growth, she notes, “I did not know or plan for Women For Change to become one of the flagship organisations in the fight against GBV. Today, WFC has close to 400,000 followers across all our social media platforms, and I assist more than a thousand survivors every month.”
The Power of Collective Action
Without the allocation of funding or financial contributions, WFC will be forced to cease operations in the upcoming weeks, which would have devastating consequences for survivors, their families, and the community they serve.
To help secure funding and hire the support of a full-time team, WFC has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, hoping to receive donations from compassionate individuals, philanthropists, and supportive corporates to provide the necessary resources to sustain the organisation and enable them to provide essential support to women and children in need.
Since the launch, over 240 unique and offline donors have come together to support WFC by contributing over R107,000 towards their fundraising goal of R800,000.
“Every donation can make a difference. We need the community’s support to keep our doors open,” urges Walter. “With enough donations, we can hire professionals who share our passion and continue to provide essential services.”
One of the most significant changes observed is the increase in individuals speaking out against GBV. WFC has created a safe and supportive environment where survivors feel empowered to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and collective strength. However, the stark reality of rising femicide and GBV statistics reminds us of the work still needed.
“I believe that on WFC accounts, more voices are being heard than ever before. We have not only encouraged survivors to speak out but have also fostered a sense of community and collective strength,” says Walter. “Many survivors no longer feel isolated with their pain and trauma; they know they are not alone.”
To support Women For Change, visit their BackaBuddy campaign:
All donors are eligible for a Section 18A tax certificate issued by Women For Change.
Update from Women For Change:
Dear Community,
Today marks the beginning of Women’s Month, and I want to take this moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who has supported our Back A Buddy Fundraiser since we launched it in April. Thanks to your generosity, we have raised over R107,000 – a testament to the incredible community we have built together. Your support is not just appreciated; it is vital to our mission and to the survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) who rely on us. As the founder of Women For Change, I am both proud and humbled by the kindness, dedication, and love of our supporters. You are the reason we can dream of a better, safer future for so many.
However, despite this remarkable progress, we are still facing significant challenges. We have not yet secured any grants or funding from businesses, and we are still short of the R800,000 needed to employ a full-time team and operate until the end of our financial year. My heart aches at the thought of not being able to continue this vital work. We are still fundraising during Women’s Month, still hopeful, and still fighting to secure the necessary resources to support survivors of GBV. If we are unable to secure the required grants by the end of the year, we will be faced with the heartbreaking decision to cease operations. I urge you, from the depths of my heart, to take action and help us continue making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
Your support means everything to us and to the countless survivors who depend on our work.
Charlton Mnyasta, an 18-year-old chess prodigy and grade 12 student at Elsies River High School, Cape Town, has been selected by Chess South Africa to represent the country in three major international tournaments this year.
Pictured above: Chess champion Charlton Mnyasta
Charlton’s journey in chess began seven years ago. Since then, his dedication and exceptional skill have earned him a prominent place in South African chess. Recently, he scored an impressive 8.5 out of 9 at the South African Junior Chess Championship 2024, securing his place at the World Junior Chess Championship in India next month and the Africa Junior Chess Championships in Egypt in November.
Beyond these accomplishments, Charlton has made a name for himself locally, securing a joint first-place finish at the Cape Town Open Chess Championship, winning first place at the Steinitz Chess Festival, and achieving fourth place at the South African Closed Chess Championship. These victories have not only established him as a formidable player but have also secured his spot on the South African Men’s team for the Chess Olympiad in Hungary this September.
Charlton’s dedication to chess is evident in his achievements and his aspirations. “I’m thrilled and honoured to represent my country. While I’m able to play the local tournaments within my province, it becomes challenging when I need to participate in inter-provincial and even more so on an international stage as the costs associated with these tournaments are too much,” Charlton told Daily Voice.
Pictured above: Charlton proudly showing off his trophies
The financial burdens of competing internationally are significant. Llewelyn Louw, chairperson of the Blackjacks Chess Club and Development Officer of the Cape Town Chess Federation, has taken up the cause to support Charlton. Louw is currently raising R50,000 through a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to cover Charlton’s expenses for the championships in India and Egypt.
“I have been part of the chess fraternity for over 25 years, I have seen too many brilliant and talented chess players fall by the wayside and not become professionally recognised chess players because of financial constraints and a lack of funding afforded to this sport,” says Louw. He emphasizes the importance of supporting young talent like Charlton, who has the potential to build a prosperous future through chess if given the necessary financial support. “Charlton has the talent and determination to represent his country in many tournaments around the world but is not able to because financially he is handicapped.”
As winter approaches in the Western Cape, hikers are facing an unexpected challenge: the earlier onset of darkness. Just this past weekend, a group of hikers from Pretoria found themselves stranded on Table Mountain after dark, highlighting the importance of preparedness during this season.
A Close Call on Table Mountain
On 17 May, the Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) team responded to an emergency call from a group of hikers aged between 41 and 57. The group had taken the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway to the top and planned to hike down. Unfortunately, misguidance from a passing hiker led them towards Camps Bay. As daylight faded, they realised they were in trouble and called the WSAR emergency number(021 937 0300).
WSAR volunteers quickly located the hikers, providing them with warm clothing, food, water, and head torches to navigate back down safely. One hiker, who was particularly exhausted, was assisted down by the volunteers, demonstrating the dedication and importance of the WSAR team. By 22:40, the entire group was safely off the mountain.
“Our rescue teams responded to a similar call in Skeleton Gorge on Saturday evening after two visiting Russian hikers were left stranded after dark. Rescuers drove up the back table from Constantia Nek and hiked down to locate the two ladies. They were guided back up the trail to the vehicles and driven down to Constantia Nek. We urge all outdoor enthusiasts to take note of the earlier winter sunset times and plan accordingly. Remember to pack a torch and an extra warm layer of clothing. Most importantly, don’t wait, please Call Us Sooner – 021 937 0300,” Nel, a member of WSAR told GoodThingsGuy.
The Vital Work of WSAR
WSAR, a coalition of government agencies and civilian volunteer organisations, plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Their recent rescue efforts underscore the importance of their work, especially as winter brings shorter days and colder temperatures.
Tips to Avoid Being Caught Out After Dark
To prevent getting caught in the dark and cold, consider the following tips:
Start Early: Begin your hike early in the day to ensure you have plenty of daylight.
Check Sunset Times: Be aware of when the sun sets and plan to be off the mountain well before then.
Plan Your Route: Familiarise yourself with the trail and have a map or GPS device.
Carry Essentials: Always bring a fully charged phone, extra clothing, food, water, and a head torch.
Stay Informed: Listen to advice from locals and experienced hikers but verify information with reliable sources.
Emergency Information
If you do find yourself in trouble, remember that rescue services in South Africa are free of charge. Save the WSAR emergency number (021 937 0300) to your phone. This number connects you to the Metro Control Centre, which will coordinate the necessary rescue or assistance.
Supporting WSAR
The lifesaving work done by WSAR is invaluable, and there are ways you can support their efforts. Consider contributing to their fund for life-saving equipment via their crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy and learn more about their mission and initiatives on their website.
National Rescue Dog Day, celebrated annually on May 20th, is a special day dedicated to raising awareness about the countless dogs in shelters awaiting their forever homes. This day is not only about raising awareness but also about inspiring action—giving hope and a loving home to our furry friends who need it most.
In SA, the number of rescue dogs is alarmingly high. Shelters and rescue organisations are overwhelmed with the sheer volume of abandoned, neglected, and stray dogs. According to recent statistics, thousands of dogs are surrendered to shelters every year, and only a fraction of them find new homes.
This National Rescue Dog Day, BackaBuddy has put together a list of ways you can get involved and help give hope to a furry friend.
How You Can Help:
Adopt: Open your heart and home to a rescue dog. Adoption not only saves a life but also enriches your own with the love and companionship of a grateful friend
Foster: Offer temporary care for dogs until they find their permanent families. Fostering provides a safe and loving environment for dogs to thrive while they wait for their forever homes.
Volunteer: Lend your time and skills to local shelters and rescue organisations. Whether it’s walking dogs, assisting with adoption events, or helping with administrative tasks, every bit helps.
Donate: Support the essential work of animal rescue groups through financial contributions. Donations help provide food, medical care, and shelter for dogs in need.
Mission: Since 1956, the AACL has been a home for abused and neglected animals. They provide shelter, rehabilitation, and adoption services, ensuring each dog finds a loving home.
SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
The SPCA operates nationwide, committed to preventing animal cruelty and promoting responsible pet ownership. Their shelters offer refuge and rehoming for countless dogs in need.
Mission: One of South Africa’s largest independent animal rescues, Woodrock provides sanctuary and loving homes for dogs in need, advocating for animal rights and welfare.
Mission: Specializing in Siberian Huskies and Nordic breeds, this organisation provides a network of support for these unique dogs, ensuring they find suitable, loving homes.
Mission: Based in Cape Town, TEARS rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes abandoned and abused animals. Their community outreach programs aim to create lasting change for animal welfare.
By adopting a rescue dog, you not only give a deserving animal a second chance at life but also help reduce the strain on shelters. Each adoption opens up space for another dog in need. This National Rescue Dog Day, consider making a difference by adopting, fostering, or supporting these incredible organisations.
Give hope to a furry friend and experience the unconditional love and gratitude that only a rescue dog can offer.
Pictured above: Madswimmer Founder Jean Craven waves the SA flag high
CAPE TOWN – “The Sky is the Limit” Madswimmer Team triumphantly returned to a camp in Kagkot in the Himalayas on Sunday afternoon, the 12 of May, marking their reconnection with civilization and their first steps on solid ground after a grueling fifteen-day ascent on the icy slopes of Mt. Putha Hiunchuli in the Himalayas. Their mission was to complete the highest-altitude swim ever recorded.
On the morning of May 10th, at an altitude of 6,405 meters, the team achieved their ambitious goal. They surpassed the previous record of 6,370 meters set by Australian Dan Bull in the Andes Mountains in South America, thus shifting the highest swim record to a new continent under challenging conditions- a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
Jean Craven, expedition leader and founder of Madswimmer, noted that the trek to the swim site was the most arduous part of the journey. Following three flights and a nerve-wracking 17-hour Jeep ride along steep cliffs, the team embarked on a 138km uphill trek that lasted 15 days. With the aid of eighteen sherpas and a caravan of 35 donkeys and yaks, they transported over a ton of equipment and supplies essential for their survival. They faced harsh icy conditions, battling wind and snow, and navigated treacherously near crevasses that threatened to collapse beneath them.
Pictured above: Madswimmers Vanes-Marie Du Toit, Neo Mokuene, Deniz Kayadelen, Chiara Baars (Team Doctor), Thufayl Ali (Cameraman), Sean Disney (Himalaya Tour leader) and Sean Jean Craven, Madswimmer Founder
Describing the swim, Jean recounted, “The last accessible liquid (swimmable) water was found at 4,900 meters. To achieve a world record, we needed to venture higher and create a suitable swimming environment at 6,405 meters. We carved out a swimming hole in the ice and melted ice in large drums that preserved the liquid water overnight. The swimming hole was covered under a tent canvas to prevent refreezing at night. The next morning, we removed the canvas, filled the ice hole with the liquid water we preserved, and took turns swimming in it for about three minutes each, wearing Speedos only. The water was chillingly cold at 3.7 degrees Celsius, with the outside temperature at minus six.”
Pictured above: Madswimmer Vanes-Marie Du Toit takes the plunge
The expedition was conducted with a commitment to environmental stewardship. After their historic swim, the water was carefully returned to the mountain, where it refroze.
Dr. Chiara Baars, the team doctor, diligently monitored the members’ vital signs and general health throughout. Oxygen levels were measured in the morning and again at night and it was interesting observing how sleep aided their acclimatisation overnight. Despite most team members lacking experience in high-altitude climbing, none suffered severe shortness of breath or other altitude symptoms. Three members took medication to facilitate acclimatisation, which was discontinued as they began their descent. Post-swim, everyone was warmed in heated tents, dressed in warm clothes covered with hot water bottles, ensuring their bodies recovered well from the extreme cold.
The team emphasised that their expedition aimed to witness and document the impacts of climate change. They encountered alarming signs, like running water appearing nearly 5,000 meters above sea level. The solid ice is crucial for binding the soil in these frigid zones. The melting of it threatens devastating land and mudslides that could obliterate communities. With global awareness campaigns initiated by Nepalese tourism and the vivid documentation by Madswimmer, the team hopes to spark meaningful discussions and highlight the urgent need to address climate change.
Pictured above: Madswimmer Neo Mokuene takes an icy dip.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
‘The Sky is the Limit’ Madswimmer Team has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to support two children’s charities with their dedicated swim: the Universitas Academic Hospital Oncology Unit for Teens and Adolescents and the Red Cross Children’s Hospital.
Red Cross Children’s Hospital, Cape Town
The Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town provides critical paediatric care to children from across South Africa. Support for this hospital ensures the continuation and expansion of their life-saving work, offering a brighter future for children in need.
Adolescent Oncology Unit, Universitas Academic Annex Hospital, Bloemfontein
The Adolescent Oncology Unit at Universitas Academic Annex Hospital in Bloemfontein focuses on providing specialised care for teenagers battling cancer. Donations help fund renovations, create a lounge and entertainment area, and ensure that teenagers receive the best possible care during their fight.
So far, the BackaBuddy campaign has raised R24,200 of their R2,000,000 goal with the support of 17 donors.
