Join NPO Trulifein their mission to eradicate Gender-Based Violence (GBV) from South African schools. From 15th of May 2024 – to the 24th of May 2024, passionate individuals from the Reddam House Berkshire in the UK are taking part in the “We See You” Challenge, running 100 kilometers in 10 days to raise crucial funds.
Their Goal:
The primary objective of this initiative is to sponsor GBV workshops in 120 schools across KZN. Through education and empowerment, they aim to equip youth and communities with the tools to address and eliminate GBV.
How You Can Help:
Your contributions directly support this vital initiative. Together, we can make a tangible difference and create safer environments for all individuals.
We are excited to announce that Catherine Du Plooy, our Chief Growth Officer, alongside Malvern Mhlanga, Co-Founder & Head of Partnership and Development of Giving Back Fundraising, will be participating as panellists at the upcoming exclusive one-day event – the 2024 IFC Cape Town Pop-Up!
The conference, a collaboration between The Resource Alliance and Relatomics Foundation, promises a day of enriching discussions and networking opportunities for individuals and organisations alike.
Date: June 6th, from 8:30 to 16:30, followed by a mocktail mixer
Prepare to immerse yourself in a dual-track event featuring a diverse range of sessions led by top fundraising experts from South Africa and across the globe.
Whether you’re eager to explore innovative fundraising strategies or sharpen your leadership skills, the IFC Cape Town Pop-Up caters to all. With sessions covering topics such as B-BBEE, Corporate Partnerships, Artificial Intelligence, Impact Investing, Major Donors, Nonprofit Communications, and more, there’s something for everyone.
As part of the panel, Catherine, will share practical strategies and insights on growing individual giving for organisations, addressing common challenges and pitfalls encountered in the South African context. Her expertise and experience in fundraising will undoubtedly provide attendees with actionable takeaways to strengthen their fundraising efforts.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your fundraising endeavours in 2024. Register now to secure your spot at the 2024 IFC Cape Town Pop-Up and join Catherine and other industry leaders for a day of enlightenment, collaboration, and empowerment.
Olebogeng Kgengwe, 28, originally from Bloemfontein and now living in Knysna, is embarking on an impressive 1,600 km cycling journey across the Western Cape into the Karoo’s dry landscape. The journey starts in Knysna and weaves through Sutherland, the Cederberg, and Oudtshoorn from April 6th to 13th. This ambitious route involves a challenging 16,000 to 20,000 meters of vertical ascent.
Pictured above: Olebogeng
This extraordinary quest isn’t just a test of physical stamina; it’s a heartfelt commitment to making a real difference in the world through the power of education.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Olebogeng’s mission is propelled by his firm belief in the transformative power of education and the critical need to support children at a crucial developmental stage.
He has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, aiming to raise R38,500 to provide educational packs for 550 underprivileged children in 28 preschools across the disadvantaged areas of Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Sedgefield, and Rheenendal. At R70 each, these packs offer symbols of hope, including activity booklets, play dough, pencils, books, and crafting materials, all crafted to enhance the children’s learning experiences and bolster their developmental progress during school holidays.
Pictured above: Olebogeng
This effort supports the Knysna Education Trust’s preschool intervention program, assisting children who are falling behind in developmental milestones to catch up and prepare for Grade R. Olebogeng is deeply committed to furnishing children in impoverished communities with crucial educational tools, particularly during the critical learning window of school holidays.
Olebogeng’s campaign has already garnered considerable support, raising R26 700 with the generous support of 24 donors.
Olebogeng is an avid athlete having completed three 1000km Munga races and two 1600km journeys from Johannesburg to Cape Town.
Olebogeng shares “I love helping people in need through cycling. It has changed my life in many ways, and I believe I can change others’ lives through riding my bicycle.”
To support Olebogeng Kgengwe’s inspirational campaign, visit:
10-year-old Marcus-Craig Knop, affectionately known as MC from Witbank, Johannesburg, is a little boy who embodies resilience and courage despite facing challenges hidden beneath his seemingly ordinary exterior.
MC is a non-verbal autistic and unique little boy who was first diagnosed at 22 months old with Pervasive Developmental Delay, an informal diagnosis for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). He was formally diagnosed with ASD when he was three years old. Being non-verbal autistic meant that MC did not communicate with anyone, and this diagnosis, while tough on MC, was also really difficult for his family.
Image above: MC during the Woodside Sanctuary Spring Day festivities
‘At first, it felt like our whole world was tumbling into pieces. All the hopes and dreams I had for MC changed overnight. Yet, this was the beginning of a brand-new adventure.’ says Meryke, MC’s mum.
However, two years ago in 2021 MC found solace in the embrace of Woodside Sanctuary, a home for the intellectually disabled, which offers daily stimulation, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, morning ring, social outings which are accompanied by staff, regular doctor visits (in house), annual psychiatric evaluations and checkups. For MC and his family, the journey to finding the perfect place for him was arduous, but when they discovered Woodside, it became a ray of hope and transformation.
Within the nurturing walls of Woodside, MC has flourished in unimaginable ways. In just two years, he has achieved milestones that once seemed out of reach, surpassing seven years of progress elsewhere. Through the dedicated care and support provided at Woodside, MC has found his voice, making friends, and even mastering the art of speaking some Zulu words.
Image above: MC in a colouring activity class in the simulation department at Woodside Sanctuary
‘Radical improvement are the words that describe how Woodside has changed MC’s life. He has gained a vocabulary that ranges far wider than I could ever expect. He is now fully potty trained. His social skills improved so much that we can now go on family outings and eat at a restaurant. He is no longer running away at the first chance he gets. He can now compose himself and verbalise his basic needs.’ says proud mum Meryke.
The journey towards independence has been significant for MC. Every step forward at Woodside reflects a triumph of spirit and determination. Here, MC receives comprehensive therapy and stimulation tailored to his needs, ensuring holistic development and growth.
More than just a care facility, Woodside is home to MC. It’s a place where he is not judged but celebrated for his uniqueness. Surrounded by peers and caregivers who understand him, MC can truly be himself, embracing his true identity without fear or reservation.
Image above: MC with his mum Meryke, dad Petrus, and siblings Megan, Cayleb, and Klara
Yet, amidst the warmth and love of Woodside, financial constraints loom large for MC’s family. With monthly fees amounting to R13,649.00 and additional expenses for medications and other necessities, the financial burden weighs heavily on his mother, who strives to provide for MC and his siblings on a teacher’s salary.
Despite receiving minimal financial support from MC’s biological father, the financial strain persists, threatening MC’s continued stay at Woodside. As an NPO, Woodside faces its own financial challenges, unable to fully fund MC’s care amidst numerous responsibilities.
MC and his family are reaching out for help through their crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy where they have already raised over R18 000 of his R228 000 with the help of 21 amazing donors.
Image above: MC at the Woodside Sanctuary Christmas party
‘With the money raised on BackaBuddy, MC will be able to stay at Woodside and continue his journey of improvement. He will be able to have his friends with him and will receive the care and therapy that he so desperately needs and deserves.’ explains Meryke.
Their humble request echoes the sentiment of countless families navigating the complexities of caring for a loved one with special needs. With your assistance, MC can continue to thrive at Woodside, embracing every opportunity to grow and develop to his full potential.
‘Thank you to each and every one who has donated to MC’s campaign. I know that thank you may seem too little for the huge impact that you are making in MC’s life and future. If I could, I would scream from the rooftops how extremely thankful and grateful I am to each and every person donor that generously opened up their hearts towards MC.’
At BackaBuddy, we are dedicated to empowering individuals to create positive change in the world, and our team embodies this commitment each day.
Meet Husain Badroodeen (31), BackaBuddy’s Data Science Lead for the last 5 years who lives in Crawford, Cape Town, and his cousin Irshaad Arieff (32), a Chartered Accountant, who are on a mission to transform the lives of vulnerable children. Their goal is to secure a school bus for the 30 children under Solomon Madikane’s care at Realistic Child and Youth Care Centre (RCYCC) in Athlone, Cape Town.
Image Caption: Irshaad (32), Solomon (52) and Husain (31)
Irshaad and Husain found themselves drawn to the RCYCC in December 2022. Irshaad, having lost his father at a tender age, had always felt a calling to support orphans. When he discovered the challenges faced by the RCYCC, particularly in transporting children to school with only a small car available, he knew he had to act.
“I believe every child deserves an equal opportunity to live out and fulfill their dreams,” Irshaad shared. “And this is just one step towards changing the lives of many children at Realistic.”
With a vision of providing every child with equal opportunities, Irshaad reached out to his friend Husain, knowing he shares his passion for making the world in both his personal and professional capacity, who eagerly joined the cause.
Image Caption: Children at RCYCC
RCYCC: Nurturing Dreams Amidst Challenges
RCYCC has been a pillar of support for vulnerable children for over two decades, offering residential care and a nurturing environment. Founded in 2004 by Solomon Madikane, the center has taken over from St Francis Children’s Home to continue and improve on the work done to guarantee proper care for vulnerable children, providing residential care for up to 42 children.
Solomon Madikane is a man who wears many hats, one of those hats being his experience and passion in youth development work to residential care for vulnerable children. He has spent more than 15 years combating the challenges of recidivism, substance misuse, and social crime. Solomon works with young South Africans to free them from a cycle of drugs, crime and imprisonment.
However, the lack of transportation has been a significant barrier to the children’s education and opportunities.
Image Caption: Current transportation at RCYCC
Campaign for Change: Empowering the Next Generation
To address this issue, Irshaad and Husain launched a crowdfunding campaign to provide RCYCC with a much-needed school bus, enabling consistent access to education and other enriching experiences for the children.
“The school bus will make a huge difference in the daily lives and the future ambitions at Realistic. They will be able to confidently know that they have their bus taking them to school and extracurricular activities which they don’t have access to at the moment. They will also then be able to go on excursions and activities by themselves as an orphanage and organize fun events for these kids to explore in Cape Town and widen their horizons,” Husain explained.
Image Caption: Children at RCYCC
The campaign has already gained momentum, raising over R12 200 with generous support of 15 donors contributing towards the fundraising target of R550,000. Every donation brings RCYCC closer to acquiring the school bus and ensuring a brighter future for the children.
“I would like to thank those who are considering contributing and highlight the everlasting benefit this will bring to the lives of the orphans and society at large. Contributing to this campaign will allow all the children at Realistic and future children to travel safely to school and make it easier to realize their dreams. We are helping the future leaders of South Africa with their educational aspirations so that they may make South Africa a better place,” Husain expressed gratefully.
To support RCYCC, visit their BackaBuddy campaign link here:
One-year-old Aria Payton Botha, a little warrior from the South Coast of Durban, KwaZulu Natal, is battling severe hearing loss in both ears and could potentially receive the gift of sound for the first time through a cochlear implant in the next three months. With the unwavering support of her family and community, her parents aim to raise funds for this life-changing operation through a BackaBuddy campaign.
Aria’s mother, Meghan (35), describes her as a fiery, independent, and lively little girl, whose spirit shines brightly even in the face of challenges. “Nothing stops this little girl,” Meghan beams with pride, “she is the epitome of an absolute warrior princess.”
Despite her hearing impairment, Aria finds joy in simple pleasures like car rides and playing outdoors. Her infectious spirit inspires hope and strength in those around her.
Caption Image: Baby Aria at 12 Months Old
Aria’s arrival was not without its trials. After experiencing the heartbreak of two back-to-back miscarriages, Meghan and her husband Nick (39) found renewed hope when they learned of Aria’s impending arrival. Aria, as Meghan fondly recalls, brought a sense of joy and anticipation that filled their hearts with newfound hope.
But joy turned to concern when, shortly after her birth, it became evident that Aria was facing hearing impairment. Despite the initial setbacks and inconclusive test results, Meghan’s maternal instinct urged her to seek answers and solutions for her daughter’s well-being.
After consulting with an ENT specialist, it was confirmed that Aria had severe hearing loss in both ears, a diagnosis that shattered Meghan’s heart. However, her resolve remained unbroken as she vowed to do whatever it takes to ensure Aria’s quality of life.
Caption Image: Baby Aria at 11-months-old
The journey to explore treatment options led Meghan and her family down a path filled with uncertainty but also with unwavering determination.
“I feel our family has become closed and we have seen sides to our boys that we didn’t even know existed. My eldest (17) came home the other day and told me that he had spoken to his principal to see if their school could do a fundraiser because we absolutely have to get Aria her implants … I teared up right there!” says Meghan.
In response to the urgent need for medical assistance, Meghan initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. With a fundraising target of R200,000 to cover surgery, implants, and therapy appointments, the community rallies behind Aria’s by raising over R20 000 thus far from 24 donors.
Meghan reflects on the overwhelming response from their community, saying, “To say that we have been overwhelmed by the love and support is an understatement.”
The campaign, fueled by compassion and generosity, has garnered support from far and wide, bringing them closer to their fundraising target with each passing day. As the campaign continues to gain momentum, Meghan remains grateful for every donation, every share, and every word of encouragement.
“I could absolutely never express in words the amount of gratitude that I have for everyone who has helped in some way,” she says tearfully, “if I ever had the money available to pay it forward, I could assure you that another child would receive their cochlear implants just like Aria is going to.”
Caption Image: Baby Aria at 13 months old
Update on her progress:
On the 11th of March 2024, Aria underwent a significant milestone in her journey toward hearing restoration. Accompanied by her family, she visited
the audiologist to have her hearing aids fitted. As the devices were turned on, Aria’s reaction was immediate and emotional, shedding tears in response to the unfamiliar sensation. The audiologist noted that while this reaction does not conclusively indicate Aria’s ability to hear, it suggests sensitivity to vibrations in her ears.
However, this reaction also provides encouraging insights into Aria’s condition. The audiologist remarked that her response indicates the absence of damage to her cochlea or nerves, a crucial factor for potential candidacy for Cochlear implants. This news brings relief to Aria’s family, as it opens up possibilities for her future treatment.
Our little Aria was fitted with hearing aids today. Not all reactions are smiles and joy sometimes the feeling is overwhelmed and scared 💔 What we know from this visit is that her nerves are in tact and her cochlear is functions. We dont know what sound she is hearing and the depth of the sound, it may even just be vibrations. Check in with the audiologist in 2 weeks ❤️❤️
