Crossroads, Cape Town – In a heartwarming tale of talent, determination, and community support, 12-year-old chess prodigy Imkhitha Joya, hailing from Crossroads, Cape Town, has earned the prestigious opportunity to represent South Africa at the highly anticipated World Cadets Championship 2023, held in Egypt.
Scheduled to take place from October 14th to 27th, the championship is poised to be a defining moment in Imkhitha’s chess journey.
Imkhitha’s rise in the world of chess is nothing short of remarkable. With just three years of dedicated practice, her growth has been meteoric. Originating from Crossroads, a community facing economic challenges, Imkhitha’s determination has propelled her beyond obstacles to achieve her current standing. Her relentless commitment to the game, combined with an unwavering passion, has earned her the title of the top-ranked player in the Western Cape and the second-ranked player in all of South Africa, boasting an impressive chess rating of 1501.
To facilitate Imkhitha’s participation in the World Cadets Chess Championship 2023, her dedicated coach, Thando Hlakula, who has been with her every step of the way, has initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. So far, R2,200 has been raised toward their fundraising goal of R124,000.
“It still baffles me that a 12-year-old can reach this level of maturity. Imkhitha’s exceptional qualities extend beyond her chess skills. She exemplifies perseverance, discipline, analytical thinking, and the ability to handle pressure, making her a standout amongst her peers.” says Thando.
Imkhitha’s story is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and community support. As she gears up to compete on the African stage, her journey will undoubtedly inspire others to follow their dreams and overcome adversity.
To contribute to Imkhitha’s remarkable journey and help her make South Africa proud, consider supporting her campaign on BackaBuddy via this link: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/imkhitha-joya
Villeria, Pretoria — In an awe-inspiring journey that epitomizes adventure, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of a greater purpose, two extraordinary friends, Dr. Jean Cooper and Dr. De Witt Oosthuizen, are gearing up to traverse the rugged landscapes of Africa.
Pictured above:Dr. Jean Cooper and Dr. De Witt Oosthuizen
This daring motorcycle expedition, spanning three months and 20 countries, is not just a quest for thrill but a monumental effort to bring fresh water to rural South African villages. They have dubbed their journey “Expedition H2O: Back to Basics,” and it promises to be an unforgettable odyssey.
Dr. Jean Cooper, a seasoned management consultant and industrial psychologist, and Dr. De Witt Oosthuizen, a dedicated medical doctor, are the driving forces behind this remarkable endeavor. Both born in 1977, their paths crossed at the University of Pretoria’s Sonop Residence, forging a friendship based on shared dreams of adventure and a profound commitment to helping others.
For Dr. Cooper, this journey signifies a transition from mentoring top executives to pursuing a purpose larger than himself. “You have to start living and striving for something bigger than yourself at some point,” he affirms. His involvement in Direct Transact’s Ezenzeleni Water Project, a registered public benefit organization, set the stage for this life-changing expedition.
Pictured above: Dr. Jean Cooper and Dr. De Witt Oosthuizen
For Dr. Oosthuizen, whose medical qualifications include rural medicine, this expedition is a chance to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
Their journey commences this Saturday at 11:00 from Trax Moto KTM in Silver Lakes, Pretoria. Over the next three months, they will chart a course along the West Coast of Africa, ultimately reaching Madrid, Spain. Their chosen route, based on advice from seasoned truck drivers, promises safer roads through Africa.
What makes this expedition even more heartwarming is their commitment to installing 100 rainwater tanks in rural Free State communities that lack easy access to fresh water. These tanks will be a lifeline, ensuring a sustainable source of clean water for these deserving villages.
Pictured above: Community member in rural Free State.
Their crowdfunding campaign in support of Direct Transact’s Ezenzeleni Water Project has already raised over R356 000 The organization, rooted in a deep moral duty to make a meaningful difference in the world, embodies the essence of their mission.
This dynamic duo, armed with two Husqvarna off-road motorcycles, will encounter diverse terrains and climates, from dusty trails to high humidity near the equator. Their journey through countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Cameroon will test their resolve and resilience. Yet, they are unwavering in their commitment to find a new rhythm for their lives and inspire us all to do the same. As Dr. Oosthuizen reflects, “We’re tackling the journey to find a new rhythm for our lives. That also means knowing what to take and what to leave in many respects.”
Pictured above: Dr. De Witt Oosthuizen
This remarkable journey is not just about covering kilometers; it’s about bridging the gap between privilege and need, inspiring others to embark on their own quests for a better world. Jean and De Witt’s adventure is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for compassion, resilience, and the pursuit of a greater purpose.
Sharney Blackway, a 28-year-old TikTok content creator from Boksburg, Johannesburg, is writing a compelling story—one of courage, hope, and resilience. Recently diagnosed with Stage 2 triple negative breast cancer, Sharney has not only faced her health challenges head-on but has also initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to secure funds for her essential treatment.
Pictured above: Sharney Blackway
Sharney’s narrative commenced as an ordinary one. She and her high school sweetheart, Rowayne, were joyfully raising their charming three-year-old daughter. However, life took an unexpected twist when Sharney received her life-altering cancer diagnosis.
Before her diagnosis, Sharney maintained a full-time job, earning minimum wage, while simultaneously pursuing a secondary career as a TikTok content creator. On TikTok, she documented her inspirational weight loss journey, steadily amassing an impressive following of nearly 50,000 supporters by the time her diagnosis arrived.
In Sharney’s own words, “I hoped that by taking control of my health, I would be able to prevent my young daughter from losing me prematurely, or at the very least, be a role model.”
Sharney’s battle began with seemingly minor discomfort—a tenderness in her left breast. Initially dismissing it as inconsequential, her doctor assured her it was a fibroadenoma and prescribed pain medication. However, the pain persisted, disrupting her daily life and work.
Pictured above: Sharney Blackway
Undeterred, Sharney persevered over several months, enduring numerous medical examinations. In January 2023, she received the devastating news: “Mrs. Blackway, you have cancer.” Sharney recalled the emotional moment: “My husband and I sobbed. We couldn’t believe it. I was told I needed two immediate surgical operations the next day—a chemo pod insertion and another biopsy. I was numb, and this was not part of our financial or emotional plans, especially since my daughter had just started school.”
Sharney’s world was turned upside down, and she not only faced the emotional and physical toll of her diagnosis but also grappled with mounting medical bills.
“I was entirely dependent on overtime,” Sharney explained, “and after the diagnosis, I couldn’t meet some of my bills. My inability to commit to content creation and hairstyling due to surgery and chemo further exacerbated our financial woes. Not only did I battle cancer, but I also lost the additional income that kept us afloat.”
Pictured above: Sharney, with her husband Rowayne, and their daughter.
Despite medical insurance covering a portion of her expenses, growing administrative fees and her husband’s need to accompany her to doctor’s appointments strained their finances further.
In response to these challenges, Sharney launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, aiming to raise R100,000 to cover medical expenses and provide support to her family during this trying period. The campaign has garnered remarkable support, with ten donors contributing over R4,800 since its launch.
Sharney explained, “I use the BackaBuddy funds for basic necessities, including property bills. Although my medical insurance covers most cancer-related expenses, administrative fees have piled up to nearly 10,000. My husband has had to reduce his work hours to support me and attend medical appointments.”
Sharney emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “My family is an incredible source of strength, but we’re a middle-class family, and these medical bills and basic needs are beyond our means. This page aims to raise awareness about misdiagnosis while seeking donations for medical expenses. While my insurance covers 100% of specialist fees, specialists charge 300%, which is 200% above coverage. Our medical expenses continue to rise daily, and any financial support is immensely appreciated as I focus on completing chemo sessions and additional treatment.”
Sharney completed her chemotherapy on August 7, 2023, and has been placed on temporary disability, facing a reduction in income, which her family heavily depends on. She is awaiting a surgery date for a double mastectomy, scheduled for this week, followed by six weeks of radiation (25 sessions). Her husband will also face salary cuts as he won’t be able to work overtime due to accompanying her.
Pictured above: Sharney Blackway on her last day of chemo
In addition to her crowdfunding efforts, Sharney has turned to TikTok, where she initially began her journey, to raise awareness about cancer among young people and underscore the importance of early detection. With her TikTok following now surpassing 111 000, she aspires to use her platform for good, inspire others to persevere, and share the power of faith through her journey.
Sharney Blackway’s story is one of bravery, determination, and the incredible support of a united community. As she continues to confront cancer, she remains a symbol of hope, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we can come together to support those in need.
Zane Bester, a resilient 32-year-old from Cleland, Pietermaritzburg, is courageously battling colon cancer while drawing strength from the unwavering support of his devoted partner, Maxine Bester (30), and their two young children, Ayla (5-year-old) and Demi (18 months).
Pictured above: The Bester Family
Zane’s battle against cancer has led him down a challenging path, fraught with unexpected twists and heart-wrenching trials. Maxine, his partner, emphasizes their resolute advocacy for Zane, who fills their lives with immeasurable love and joy.
In a candid reflection, Maxine expressed profound gratitude to those who have stood by their side, showering them with love and steadfast support. She acknowledged that this outpouring of compassion has infused them with a sense of hope that transcends the obstacles they face.
Pictured above: Zane & Maxine
The journey began in 2021 when Zane’s life shifted from health and happiness to a struggle against persistent stomach cramps that lasted five agonizing weeks. Amid numerous doctor visits and a spectrum of diagnoses, one doctor’s insight pierced through the uncertainty. January 19th marked the day when the word “tumor” reshaped the course of their lives.
Subsequent days were marked by a flurry of medical procedures – X-rays, CT scans, and a colonoscopy – all within a week. Among the chaos, a steadfast truth emerged – a tumor had taken root in Zane’s colon. The surgeon’s words reverberated as both an alarm and a rallying cry, propelling Zane into an urgent operation on January 28th.
Facing a trial beyond imagination, Zane, who had radiated vitality, found himself grappling not only with his health but also mounting medical bills. The absence of medical insurance exacerbated their financial burden, with medical debt now surpassing R360,000.
Pictured above: Zane with daughters Ayla and Demi
In response to their challenges, a crowdfunding campaign was launched on BackaBuddy, gathering over R36 000 towards a fundraising target of R300 000. The campaign serves as a testament to the power of community rallying around a cause.
As 2023 unfolds, Zane’s journey continues, punctuated by new obstacles. Stent insertions in his liver and right kidney, battles with jaundice, a colostomy procedure – all faced with remarkable bravery.
As July approached, dehydration and eating difficulties compromised Zane’s kidney function, prompting a candid discussion with his oncologist about the constraints of available treatments.
The oncologist’s counsel resonated as a call to bravery – an invitation to embrace the days ahead with unwavering strength while prioritizing Zane’s comfort. Maxine’s words echo this sentiment as she appeals to the community:
“If you find it within your means, we humbly request your support for our BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign. Our goal is to ensure Zane’s comfort and gradually alleviate the mountain of medical bills we still need to face. If you have the privilege of knowing and cherishing Zane, we urge you to share his story and provide him with the encouragement he needs to persevere in this battle.”
Zane’s courageous journey has united a community in solidarity, showcasing the profound impact that collective kindness and support can have in illuminating the path forward.
South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far risen over R420 Million.
Life can take unexpected turns, challenging us in ways we never imagined. Such is the case for 27-year-old Jason Brits’ from Pretoria, a talented glass blower whose life was forever altered by a devastating road accident in September 2022.
As he sought medical attention at a state hospital, regrettably due to not having any medical aid, Jason received subpar treatment, leaving his foot with shattered and swelling carpal bones, nerve, tendon, and muscle damage, and rendering it unusable. Due to the extent of damage to the bones, nerve damage and incorrect medical care has left him with atrophy and if left untreated, amputation would be an option to relieve him of the constant pain he is suffering.
Pictured above: Jason Brits
With no other choice, Jason sought a second opinion from Dr. Pieter Coertze, a renowned specialist at Montana Hospital in Pretoria. The consultation brought a ray of hope as Dr. Coertze diagnosed that with corrective surgery, Jason’s foot could be salvaged. The infected bones need to be removed, paving the way for physiotherapy which would enable Jason to walk without pain and work again. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as the surgery must take place as soon as possible for the inflicted bones have a high possibility of turning gangrenous which will result in the irreversible decision of amputation.
The severity of Jason’s injury not only affects him but also has far-reaching consequences for his wife, Emlee, and their unborn child. Their once-stable life turned upside down as Jason’s injury forced him into unemployment. With no other financial support, Emlee is now the sole provider for their family. The impending arrival of their first child makes the situation even more heart-wrenching. Jason’s greatest wish is to be an active and supportive husband and an engaged father, free from the limitations of a limp or amputated leg.
Pictured above: Jason with wife, Emlee
Jason’s aspirations extend beyond his own well-being. He yearns to be a supportive husband and an active father, engaging in all the adventures and joys that come with parenthood. His desire to walk, run, play, climb, and be an equal participant in his child’s life fuels his determination to undergo the necessary surgery and reclaim his life as an artisan, a supportive husband, and a loving father and caregiver.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
In pursuit of restoring hope and mobility, Jason and his family have launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to raise funds for his medical journey. The family has since raised R64 837 towards his target of R150 000.00.
“After the accident, aiding my wife with rent and food, I was left penniless. My wife and I had no means to afford further medical expenses and for a time gave up on trying to find hope in resolving our changed lives. Once news came to light of my wife’s pregnancy and we heard of BackaBuddy, did the spark of hope return. We made an active effort, with the support of family members, to seek out a better doctor and start a campaign to have the surgery needed so that I may return into the fold of my career and to begin the great adventure of starting a family; of being a father. BackaBuddy has shown us that if there is a will there’s a way and if there is a way life will, with no doubt be better in the end!”
Pictured above: Jason Brits and his mentor
Life is full of unexpected challenges, and Jason Brits’ journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite facing the heartbreak of a life-altering injury, he remains determined to reclaim his life as a glass blower, husband, and father. With the support and generosity of the community, we can rally together to help Jason get the corrective surgery he urgently needs. This act of compassion and kindness will not only change his life but also bring hope and joy to his family’s future. Let’s come together and be a part of Jason’s second chance – a chance to rebuild his dreams and embrace the boundless possibilities of life once again.
For more information or to support Jason’s campaign, please visit: BackaBuddy campaign:
South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far risen over R420 Million.
Mpumalanga resident, Robin Lewis, and his wife, Jolandie, will embark on a 10-year 64-country journey spanning three continents to spread global awareness around the importance of stem cell donation.
Pictured above: Robin Lewis and his wife, Jolandie, in hospital following his stem cell transplant in 2018. Robin was diagnosed with Fanconi Anaemia, a genetic DNA repair disorder that can lead to bone marrow failure, leukaemia and or solid tumors in the body.
The pair, who will start their Matches on the Map journey from their hometown Nelspruit in August, will be travelling an estimated 110 000 kilometres through Africa, Europe, and Asia in their one-of-a-kind custom-built motorhome affectionately known as “Betsy”. The vehicle is an old fire truck that has been converted to run on “used” cooking oil to be more sustainable and save on diesel costs.
The husband-and-wife duo was inspired to take on this project, following a successful stem cell transplant after Robin was diagnosed with Fanconi Anaemia – a genetic DNA repair disorder that may lead to bone marrow failure, leukaemia and or solid cancerous tumors.
The chance of finding a matching donor is like a needle in a haystack given the number of donors registered worldwide, but thankfully Robin went on to have a haploidentical (partially matched) transplant. This was the only matched donor available for Robin in the
world.
Lewis hopes that they can help patients who find themselves in a similar situation. Their objective is to sign up thousands of donors in partnership with the South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR), as they journey through each continent, starting in Africa.
“If it wasn’t for the stem cell transplant, I would not be here today. Since then, we’ve been plotting ideas of how to raise greater public awareness around stem cell donation, and that’s how ‘Matches on the Map’ was born.”
Picture above: On the right is their one-of-a-kind motorhome, dubbed “Betsy”, that will provide transport and accommodation for the pair on their 3 650-day journey.
The aim is to add diversity not only to the SABMR but registry databases in countries they will be travelling to with the goal of finding matches for patients en route.
Lewis says planning the expedition has taken hundreds of hours of research, looking at routes, locations, border crossings and safety concerns. This while at the same time building Betsy which has taken up the most part of four years.
“After my transplant five years ago, my wife and I started planning the trip with the hope of changing the world. Our plan was very ambitious, and we soon realised that we couldn’t do it alone. As Fanconi Anemia nearly claimed my life, we decided that we would also focus on establishing support groups for patients with this disease as we make our way through various countries, meeting up with families that are affected, and sharing their stories.
“Building the truck has taken us four years and we can’t wait to get on the road with Betsy and officially get the Matches on the Map project underway. We’re very grateful for the SABMR, who will be assisting us with stem cell donor kits, documentation, export and import logistics, marketing efforts and support every step of the way. They’ve been 100% behind us since day one.”
Nadia Chalkley, Head of Donor Recruitment for the SABMR says Matches on the Map will allow access to a broad and much more diverse spectrum of donors.
“Ethnicity plays a huge role in finding donor matches, especially for patients of colour. Currently, only 35% of our donor base is of colour, which is not reflective of the demographic make-up of South Africa. This limits our ability to find matches for patients who are of African or Indian descent.”
“While we are making progress through our in-person community drives across the country and online donor registrations, we need to consistently educate and sign up donors to give all patients a fighting chance. This project will bring us closer to making our donor database more diverse. The more donors we have from various ethnic backgrounds, the greater the chances of a match,” she says.
Lewis explains there is still a lot of work that is required before Betsy takes off on her maiden voyage.
“We still have a way to go before Betsy gets on the road, but we are confident that we will have her completed in time. We have launched a crowdfunding campaign via Backabuddy in collaboration with the SABMR to assist us with ongoing operational costs on the road and to raise additional funds for the Registry’s donor recruitment efforts as stem cell kits and the processing thereof is quite expensive.”
“We want to appeal to corporates and the public to come on board and help us fulfil this dream of making a meaningful change in the lives of patients who require a stem cell transplant. The likelihood of people from certain ethnic backgrounds finding a successful match is a mere 37% compared to patients from European descent whose chances are 72%. As a survivor myself, I know what a harrowing experience it is to have to wait for a donor match when you’re running out of time.”
Since the launch of the crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, over R2000 has been raised towards their fundraising target of R150 000.
South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy has supported more than 10 000+ individuals and charities in setting up fundraising campaigns for medical fees, tuition and various causes in South Africa. The platform has thus far risen over R430 Million.
Pictured above: Imkhitha Joya (Photo credit: Flashlight Pictures)
Pictured above: Imkhitha Joya (Photo credit: Flashlight Pictures)
Pictured above: Zane Bester
Pictured above: The Bester Family 
Pictured above: Zane & Maxine
Pictured above: Zane with daughters Ayla and Demi
Pictured above: Jason Brits
Pictured above: Jason with wife, Emlee
Pictured above: Jason Brits and his mentor
Pictured above: Robin Lewis and his wife, Jolandie, in hospital following his stem cell transplant in 2018. Robin was diagnosed with Fanconi Anaemia, a genetic DNA repair disorder that can lead to bone marrow failure, leukaemia and or solid tumors in the body.
Picture above: On the right is their one-of-a-kind motorhome, dubbed “Betsy”, that will provide transport and accommodation for the pair on their 3 650-day journey.