Social Media Manager at BackaBuddy, Bernelie Barwise (32), is a Cape Town-based performer, musician, and fire artist whose talents shine as brightly as the flames she wields. This Saturday, 6 December, she will be lighting up Franschhoek Square with an unforgettable fusion of music and fire artistry.
With an impressive performance portfolio, Bernelie has dazzled audiences across the globe, including in Abu Dhabi, the UK, Tanzania, Zanzibar, and throughout South Africa, with notable appearances in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. Her captivating performances seamlessly blend live music and visual artistry, incorporating keyboard, guitar, looping beats, synths, and powerful vocals, all enhanced by breathtaking fire shows.
Pictured above: Bernelie Barwise at a fire show in Afrikanos in 2021
“I first started singing from a young age and did the Eisteddfod where I won categories in both singing classical contemporary music and poetry. From there I learned to play the piano by ear as I was too stubborn to learn theory,” says Bernelie
Recently, Bernelie delivered a fiery stage performance at the Ostrich Ranch, sharing the spotlight with renowned South African band MiCasa, and showcased her live electronic music in an exclusive rooftop show atop the Media24 building. Her artistry and unique style have been spotlighted by Texx and the City, particularly for her music that promotes themes of body positivity and self-love.
Pictured above: Bernelie with South African artist MiCasa at the Ostrich Ranch in Cape Town
Bernelie has released two albums, with plans to re-release them in early 2025. Her most recent album, Zenith, is currently available exclusively on Bandcamp, and her visually stunning music video, filmed in Abu Dhabi, exemplifies her creative vision.
“I recorded my first album when I was 16 and then at 24, my first official album ‘Mystic’ was launched on all major digital platforms and one of the singles from the album ‘Little Mess’ got played on 5FM. I then went on to play at many well known venues in Cape Town like the Mojo Market, Grand West, Mercury, The Mining Indaba at the Arabella Sheraton Hotel and Hirsh’s Women in Business Awards in Century City. Shortly after, my guitarist and I had a video that went viral on Facebook and we got a contract to go play in Abu Dhabi for 5 months. After returning from the UAE, I released another album, ‘Zenith’ produced by Marius de Beer (32) during Covid. Covid definitely threw a spanner in the works as many projects got put on hold,” Bernelie tell us
This Saturday, 6 December, Bernelie will bring her extraordinary mix of music and fire artistry to Franschhoek Square, promising audiences an unforgettable fusion of sound and spectacle.
Pictured above: Bernelie performing at Media24 for the launch of new Nokia products
“Living and performing in different countries is an absolute privilege. It was also hard work and sometimes came with its challenges as I fell very sick in Zanzibar after getting Malaria,” Bernelie explains
Offstage, Bernelie serves as an ambassador for Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary, a safe haven for rescued big cats. She passionately supports their BackaBuddy campaign, which raises funds to provide food and veterinary care for these majestic animals. So far, the campaign has raised R2,000 of its R200,000 goal, with every contribution bringing them closer to ensuring the well-being of these incredible creatures.
Pictured above: Bernelie at Panthera Africa
“I support the amazing Big Cat Sanctuary, Panthera Africa, because I am a huge animal lover and very much into nature conservation. My motivation to support comes from my love for rescuing animals and my cat, Mitsu, was rescued after being found in a bin in Manenberg and very close to death. This sparked my interest in saving other animals in need and I have always been a big cat lover!” Bernelie says
Whether she’s performing with fire, creating music, or championing meaningful causes, Bernelie’s work embodies her dedication to creativity, connection, and making a difference.
Since 2015, The Feral Carer NPC in Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng, has been dedicated to the care and protection of community cats, with Farzana Ismail, an early middle-aged woman, the organisation’s founder and director, at the helm. Farzana’s journey into rescue work began nearly a decade ago with an unexpected encounter. In her words:
“In 2015, while invigilating at the Vaal University of Technology, a cat casually entered the examination venue. At the time, I had no knowledge of the established cat colony on campus. That evening, I left in tears, feeling completely helpless after witnessing a vulnerable cat seeking refuge amidst the chaos created by students. That moment sparked a lifelong commitment to their well-being.”
Image above: Ichika, a feline who was previously part of the campus colony
Today, Farzana’s unwavering dedication ensures the health and safety of 13 feral cat colonies – nearly 400 cats in total – and the resident cats housed in her sanctuary. Her work extends beyond simply providing food and water. “This question is intensely emotive and subjective,” Farzana explains, “as only those who have witnessed my engagement with the colony cats or any cat, comprehend that my connection extends beyond the mere provision of food and water. I engage in meaningful interactions, form bonds, and ultimately, the cats recognise that for a brief portion of their day, they are of paramount importance to someone who champions their wellbeing.”
The Challenges of Sustaining Care
Despite her dedication, The Feral Carer NPC is facing immense financial pressure. Monthly food costs alone amount to R18,000, while veterinary care for resident and community cats continues to escalate. Many of the resident cats require specialised dietary care due to chronic health conditions, including kidney disease, FIV, urinary tract issues, and mouth diseases.
Among them is Chester, who suffers from kidney disease and requires chronic medication and a specialised kidney diet. Then there’s Ichika, a former campus cat rescued in 2021, who battles severe gingivitis and stomatitis, necessitating ongoing veterinary care. Cats like Pablo, Tommy Boy, and Chiquita also rely on continuous medical attention and high-quality diets.
Image above: Chiquita, a campus colony rescue
“Sustainability is vital for the successful management of 13 community cat colonies and the resident cats,” Farzana stresses. “However, with unsterilised, abandoned cats infiltrating colony grounds, the challenge of maintaining consistent sterilisation becomes more daunting. Emergency interventions are often needed when kittens are born, which adds to the already mounting expenses.”
Farzana’s work doesn’t end with the cats. As a lecturer, she balances her professional responsibilities, personal studies, and teaching schedule while ensuring the wellbeing of the cats. She describes it as a multifaceted balancing act, one that demands careful time management and unwavering commitment.
The Long-Term Vision
Farzana dreams of expanding her efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of her rescue work. Her vision includes launching a mobile sterilisation unit to improve sterilisation rates and acquiring a smallholding property to establish a sanctuary for cats removed from colonies. This would provide a safe space where their needs could be comprehensively met.
“The TNR process requires sustained enthusiasm and commitment to achieve its effectiveness,” she explains. “While I do my best, financial constraints are a constant challenge. Without sustained community support, I cannot continue these essential efforts.”
A Call for Help
Farzana’s plea is simple but heartfelt – she needs your help to continue providing for the cats under her care. “The escalating costs of food and veterinary care are becoming unmanageable, and I need sustained support to persevere.”
Image above: Chester along with his brother Atlas were rescued from the campus colony
By supporting The Feral Carer NPC’s BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign, which has raised R1,400 of its R150,000 goal thanks to the generosity of three incredible donors, you’re doing more than helping cats survive – you’re giving them a chance to thrive and live free from suffering.
To stay updated on Farzana’s journey and the incredible impact she’s making, follow The Feral Carer NPC on Facebook, where she shares daily stories of life with the community cats. Your support is not only appreciated – it’s essential to ensure that the love and care for these cats never wavers.
Mosa Mphore knows firsthand the life-changing impact of organ donation. At just 22 years old, Mosa’s life was interrupted by a devastating diagnosis of end-stage kidney failure. Facing advanced kidney disease, he spent two years on dialysis, fighting daily for his survival. In 2013, everything changed when Mosa received the precious gift of a kidney transplant – a donation that saved his life and set him on a new path. Now, Mosa is on a mission to inspire others to give the same gift by becoming organ donors.
“When I got that call, I knew my life was about to change,” Mosa recalls. “But it also gave me a purpose: to share my story and educate people on how organ donation gives others a second chance at life.”
Today, Mosa is the founder of the Open-Eye Foundation, an organization devoted to educating South Africans about the power of organ donation. Through his foundation, Mosa works tirelessly to break down misconceptions about organ donation and encourage others to register as donors. His mission is simple yet profound: to save lives by increasing organ donor registrations and creating a culture of compassion and generosity.
To amplify his message, Mosa has organized the Pedals and Provinces Cycle Tour, a 3-day cycling journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Scheduled for November 22 to November 24, this inspiring event invites cyclists to pedal across provinces, raising awareness about organ donation and the countless lives it can save. Mosa sees this tour as a way to symbolize the journey that many patients endure as they wait on transplant lists, hoping for their second chance.
“We want to break down the misconceptions and cultural barriers surrounding organ donation,” Mosa explains. “The simple act of saying ‘yes’ to becoming a donor can transform lives. We’re pedalling for second chances and renewed lives.”
The event not only seeks to inspire South Africans to consider organ donation, but it also aims to raise funds that will support transplant centres and assist patients undergoing challenging treatment. By participating, each rider becomes part of a nationwide movement that advocates for those waiting on life-saving transplants.
Image above: Participants taking part in the cycle tour
Funds from the Pedals and Provinces Cycle Tour will be used to support renal and liver failure patients in public hospitals who often face difficult treatment journeys without adequate resources. From providing transportation for dialysis to offering food hampers, comfort items, and counseling, this support makes an enormous difference for patients and their families. The foundation also plans to launch its Transplant Assist Program (T.A.P.), connecting patients with potential living donors and providing essential guidance through the transplant process.
Event Details:
Date: November 22 – November 24, 2024
Route: From Johannesburg to Cape Town
Purpose: To inspire organ donor registrations and raise funds to support patients awaiting transplants
How You Can Join the Movement
Support the Cycle Tour – Your donations on the Mosa’s BackaBuddy campaign help provide crucial resources for patients facing organ failure.
Register as an Organ Donor – A simple “yes” could give someone else a second chance at life.
Participate in the Ride – Join the journey and ride for a cause that has the power to transform lives.
“When you give your consent to organ donation, you’re giving someone else a second chance at life,” Mosa shares.
Join him and the Open-Eye Foundation this November, and be part of a movement that’s changing lives, one pedal stroke at a time.
For more information or to make a donation, visit the Open-Eye Foundation’s website or follow them on social media for updates.
In July of last year, 32-year-old Timothy Bentley, a mechanical engineer from Cape Town, found his life suddenly upended. Following what seemed to be a common viral infection, Tim’s health began to unravel in ways he could never have imagined. His diagnosis of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, has led to a downward spiral in his health, leaving him bed-bound and dependent on loved ones for even the simplest tasks.
Pictured above: 32-year-old Timothy Bentley
Tim’s journey to a diagnosis was a lengthy one; it took over eight months from his initial infection to get any real answers. During that time, he endured the deterioration of his physical and mental capacities. Once an avid mountain biker, racer, and BMX dirt jumper who loved going to live concerts and the beach, Tim has now lost access to the activities and lifestyle that once defined him. “It’s been extremely tough on me,” Tim shares. “I was incredibly active before I got sick. Now, it’s so isolating, and every test builds my hopes, only for them to be dashed when the results come back.”
For Tim, every day is a challenge. The debilitating fatigue and body aches prevent even basic movement. He experiences severe light and noise sensitivity, vertigo, dizziness, and cognitive impairments that make screen time or even looking at his phone for more than a few minutes nearly impossible. Adding to the strain, Tim’s body no longer tolerates any physical or mental exertion, temperature changes, or bright lights, which worsen his symptoms. The condition is thought to be linked to a viral trigger, yet the exact biological cause of ME/CFS remains unknown – akin to the mystery surrounding long COVID. Medical experts theorize it could stem from cellular energy production issues, immune system reactions, or even brain stem damage.
Pictured above: Tim in his mountain biking element
Tim’s partner, Frankie Du Toit (27), has become his steadfast support, taking on all household responsibilities, from cooking and cleaning to managing finances. “Frankie’s been my rock,” Tim says. “She’s taken over everything, been my emotional support, and helps with daily tasks I can’t do myself, like showering.” Tim’s parents, James and Sue Bentley, have also had to adjust their lives significantly. They come by daily to prepare meals, handle the cleaning, and take him to all his medical appointments, all while managing the financial burden of ongoing treatments. “It’s been overwhelming,” Tim reflects. “This whole experience has placed a tremendous financial and emotional strain on my parents. They’ve spent nearly all their savings on my medical care.”
The road to recovery has been paved with medical tests and expenses. Currently, Tim is awaiting the results of a full brain and spine MRI to rule out conditions that mimic ME/CFS, such as cervical spinal stenosis. Additionally, he’s waiting for blood test results to check for heavy metal allergies to titanium, as he has plates and screws in his foot from past injuries. If these tests show no further complications, the focus will shift to managing his symptoms.
Pictured above: Tim Bentley
Amidst this uphill battle, Tim remains hopeful, inspired by stories of others who have recovered from ME/CFS. “The thought that one day I might be able to ride again and do the things I love is what keeps me going,” he says. His gratitude for the outpouring of support from 136 donors on his BackaBuddy campaign, which has raised over R163,000 so far, is profound. “Thank you so much to everyone who has donated, no matter how big or small,” Tim says. “Thank you to my wonderful friends, especially from the mountain biking community, who have donated and shared my story. And thank you to the kind people who don’t even know me but have still donated. I wish I could personally thank each and every one of you!”
As Tim continues his journey, the generosity of supporters has been a vital source of strength and hope. “It’s been absolutely overwhelming and has taken a huge financial burden off my parents. Knowing that I’m not forgotten during this incredibly challenging time means the world to me,” TIm says. The support allows him to focus on his next steps toward recovery, holding on to the hope that one day he will be back on his bike, conquering new trails, and living the life he once loved.
In 2020, amid the profound impact of the pandemic on families, Nicole Arrison, our very own Systems & Quality Assurance Analyst here at BackaBuddy from Kensington, Cape Town, found a unique way to celebrate her December 21st birthday – by giving back. Inspired by the pressing need she saw around her, Nicole set a goal to provide 21 grocery boxes to families in need. What began as a simple idea soon grew into something much larger, thanks to overwhelming support from friends, family, and even strangers around the world.
Reflecting on the first year of Box21For21, Nicole says, “I was overwhelmed with the support from all over the world – receiving donations from America, Malaysia, and Sweden. On the day of my birthday, driving around to deliver the boxes, I held back a lot of happy tears just witnessing the joy and relief on people’s faces.”
Since then, the initiative has grown to include stationery relief, providing children with essentials for school. Each year brings challenges, yet Nicole remains undeterred. Although work commitments limited her 2022 efforts, and the funds raised in 2023 fell short of her R21,000 goal, Nicole ensured that every rand was put to good use, contributing to a charity Christmas lunch for the homeless.
Pictured above: Groceries included in each box
This year, Nicole is starting early, calling on the generosity of supporters to help her provide essential grocery boxes to struggling families. She’s once again launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, raising over R1,000 of her R25,000 goal with the help of six incredible donors. She reflects on the initiative’s broader impact stating: “Sadly, it’s not only the rising cost of living that has hit the communities around me but also the recent storms and harsh winters. Yet, I’m optimistic – South Africa is the home of ‘ubuntu,’ and my hope is that Box21For21 can grow to a point where we have a constant rotation of grocery relief boxes being distributed.”
Each grocery box includes fresh produce, rice, tinned food, hygiene products, and a little bit of festive cheer. For many families, these items make a world of difference. “One mother shared how, after the loss of her son – who was their only source of income – she didn’t know where their next meal would come from. Thanks to the grocery box, that stress was alleviated, and they could enjoy Christmas. Knowing that I could help bring them some festive joy is a feeling I hold very close to my heart.” Nicole says
Pictured above: Box21For21 boxes packed and ready to be distributed
Nicole’s vision for Box21For21 is bold but grounded in compassion. She believes that with ongoing support, this initiative can help more families in need each year. “Your contribution has an unseen ripple effect, spreading joy and compassion that’s truly incomprehensible. Together, we can make this season brighter for families facing tough times. Thank you for supporting Box21For21 and sharing in my mission to make a difference.”
Picture a young child, eyes gleaming with excitement, clutching a book they can now call their own. This Christmas, through the Jakes Gerwel Foundation’s Blue Crane Book Project, you can help make that simple, profound dream a reality for thousands of children.
In the heart of the Eastern Cape’s Blue Crane District, the Jakes Gerwel Foundation’s goal is to deliver not just a gift but the joy of reading to 3,000 young learners. For as little as R50, you can sponsor a gift that includes a captivating storybook, sweets, and a small toy – a complete Christmas package for a child who may have very little to call their own.
“We employ 40 reading assistants who provide intensive one-on-one reading sessions to children with severe reading disabilities,” shares the Jakes Gerwel Foundation.
These reading assistants work in dedicated classrooms within local schools, transformed into nurturing reading rooms filled with books, colourful shelves, cosy mats, and engaging word games. These safe spaces are not only helping children learn to read but are inspiring a love of literature that could change their lives forever.
Beyond their regular reading sessions, the foundation organises holiday programs with plays, word games, food parcels, and face painting, creating a memorable experience for every child involved. “Through these activities, we aim to foster a sense of community and demonstrate that reading and books can be fun,” the foundation explains.
You can be part of this wonderful mission to spread Christmas cheer and hope to young learners in Pearston, KwaNojoli, Somerset East, and Cookhouse. By supporting the Blue Crane Book Project’s BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign where they have raised over R1900 with the aid of 5 incredible donors, you’re joining a movement that brings not only gifts but the potential for a brighter future.
Pictured above: Bernelie Barwise at a fire show in Afrikanos in 2021
Pictured above: Bernelie with South African artist MiCasa at the Ostrich Ranch in Cape Town
Pictured above: Bernelie performing at Media24 for the launch of new Nokia products
Pictured above: Bernelie at Panthera Africa
