In the heart of Storms River Village in the Eastern Cape, a musical initiative is taking root, thanks to the passion and dedication of Michaela Gardner and her wife, Chanel. The Music Sprouts is a program that teaches local children the art of playing the violin, aiming to give them access to music education free of charge.
Pictured above: Students at The Music Sprouts
Michaela, a devoted violinist, is driven by the joy that the instrument brings her. “It brings me a great deal of joy,” she says, and with a deep desire to share that joy, she and Chanel founded The Music Sprouts Access Program in January 2024. The program began with the simple goal of making music education accessible to children in the village. Lessons take place at the church hall, providing a space for kids to learn and grow through the power of music.
“We started in January 2024, and we already have over 60 children attending our main community class on Wednesday afternoons. Through commitment, dedication and passion, children can work their way up through the program,” Michaela shares with pride. The program is designed to nurture young talent, with children progressing through various levels based on their dedication and attitude.
The first step, Level 1, is the Community Class, where children are encouraged to show up consistently and display respect and good behavior. Those who meet these criteria are invited to join Level 2. instrument group classes, which are currently focused on the violin. Eventually, students who show exceptional commitment can qualify for Level 3, where they are given their own instrument and weekly private lessons.
Pictured above: Lesson in session with teacher Michaela Gardner
“We had 12 candidates who qualified for sponsorship and managed to find sponsors for all of them, which has been incredible,” Michaela explains. With 11 violins and several percussion instruments, Michaela and Chanel bring the necessary tools to class each week, despite some challenges. After their bicycles were stolen in 2024, they now transport the instruments on foot to the church hall.
To further support The Music Sprouts initiative, Michaela and Chanel have set up a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy where they have raised over R6000 of their R400 000 goal with the help of 4 generous donors. This fundraiser is aimed at creating a dedicated space for the program, which they plan to call The Access Cube.
Michaela explains, “We really are in need of a dedicated space for the Music Sprouts. So we have begun a fundraiser for ‘The Access Cube’, which will be a small off-grid building on our property to hold all our music classes, for any of the children to come and practice their instruments, as well as just have a safe space to even do their homework in the afternoons.”
Pictured above: The Music Sprouts students honing their talents
Beyond music, The Access Cube will serve as a community hub, where children can also learn about growing food, attend skill-building workshops, and participate in concerts. Michaela envisions it as a space where the youth of the village can connect and thrive in various aspects of life. “Down the road, The Access Cube will include a lot more than just music. We will teach the children about growing food, host skill building workshops and organize concerts. The idea is that it becomes a hub of activity for all the youth in the village.”
To support the creation of The Access Cube, Michaela and Chanel have launched The Square by Square initiative. Michaela invites anyone interested to contribute, explaining that, “For R500, anyone can sponsor a square to help build the Access Cube. People can, of course, sponsor as many squares as they like. In doing so, they will receive a certificate of sponsorship, regular updates on the program and invitations to any events or concerts we host.”
While financial contributions are essential to the success of The Music Sprouts, Michaela and Chanel also welcome donations of instruments, especially violins, which are most needed for their classes. If you’re interested in helping, donations can be made via their BackaBuddy page, or you can reach out on Facebook for more details.
International Wheelchair Day, celebrated annually on March 1st, raises awareness about the challenges wheelchair users face, celebrates their achievements, and advocates for more accessible communities. It highlights the importance of inclusion, independence, and equal opportunities for all. In South Africa, various resources and organizations are available to help improve accessibility and support wheelchair users. Here are some places you can turn to for help and how they make a difference in the lives of wheelchair users in South Africa:
1. QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA)
The QuadPara Association of South Africa is one of the most prominent organizations supporting people with physical disabilities in the country. They focus on enhancing the quality of life for wheelchair users through advocacy, empowerment, and the provision of relevant resources.
Services offered by QASA include:
Advocacy and policy change: QASA actively campaigns for better accessibility, inclusivity, and rights for people with disabilities at both the national and provincial levels.
Support programs: They provide support for wheelchair users and their families, offering workshops, guidance on disability-related issues, and social networks.
Rehabilitation and empowerment: QASA helps wheelchair users transition to independent living and offers services such as physical rehabilitation and training in various life skills.
The South African Disability Alliance (SADA) is a national advocacy and service organization that represents people with various disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs. They work towards creating a more inclusive South African society by ensuring that people with disabilities have access to the rights and resources they deserve.
Services offered by SADA include:
Policy advocacy: SADA lobbies for improved disability policies and works with the government to ensure compliance with the Disability Rights Charter.
Awareness campaigns: SADA organizes campaigns and events to raise awareness about the rights and needs of people with disabilities.
Resource connection: They provide information on support systems, health services, and mobility aids for people in need.
Motivation South Africa is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with mobility challenges by providing accessible equipment, including wheelchairs, to those in need. They are part of the Motivation UK network and work to support people living with disabilities by offering mobility aids, health equipment, and rehabilitation services.
Services offered by Motivation South Africa include:
Wheelchair distribution and assessment: Motivation SA provides a wide range of wheelchairs, from basic models to customized, high-tech chairs, tailored to the individual’s needs.
Training: They provide training for caregivers and wheelchair users to maximize the use and care of mobility aids.
Community outreach: They work on projects to distribute mobility equipment and raise awareness about disability rights and needs in underprivileged areas.
4. The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD)
The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) is one of South Africa’s key organizations focused on advocating for and supporting persons with disabilities, including wheelchair users. They aim to empower people with disabilities to live independently and access their rights as South African citizens.
Services offered by NCPD include:
Training and development: The NCPD provides training programs to equip people with disabilities with skills for employment and daily living.
Accessibility initiatives: They work to ensure that public spaces and buildings are accessible to all, including those who use wheelchairs.
Disability information center: NCPD runs information centers across the country to help individuals with disabilities access available resources, such as funding, healthcare, and mobility aids.
In South Africa, accessible transport is a significant challenge for many wheelchair users. However, some initiatives are working to make public transportation more inclusive. Paratransit services are available in certain regions, offering tailored transport solutions for those with mobility needs.
Services include:
Metrobus Johannesburg: Metrobus in Johannesburg operates some wheelchair-accessible buses.
Taxis and transport services: Some private companies and local government initiatives offer paratransit services for wheelchair users.
Uber Accessible Rides: Uber has started offering wheelchair-accessible rides in select locations in major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg.
6. Disability Equipment Suppliers
There are various suppliers of mobility aids and wheelchairs in South Africa that cater to the diverse needs of users. Some trusted names include:
City Mobility: They offer a wide range of products for mobility and healthcare, including wheelchairs, electric scooters, and other aids for independent living.
Riback: Specializing in supplying mobility equipment, Riback provides wheelchairs, walkers, and other assistive devices to individuals across South Africa.
The South African government provides disability grants through the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA). These grants are designed to help individuals with disabilities meet their basic needs.
SASSA provides:
Disability Grants: Aimed at individuals who have been certified by a medical practitioner as being unable to work due to a disability.
Assistance in applying for disability benefits: The SASSA offices offer assistance in completing applications for grants and related services.
To ensure that people with disabilities, including wheelchair users, have access to education and employment opportunities, several programs are dedicated to inclusive education and skills development:
The Disability Unit at Universities: Most South African universities, including the University of Cape Town and the University of Pretoria, have disability units that assist students with mobility challenges by offering support services and adapting facilities.
Disability Employment Programs: The Employment Equity Act requires companies in South Africa to employ people with disabilities. Programs like the Disability Employment Network offer services to help people with disabilities find employment opportunities.
To raise funds for mobility aids or any related needs you can create a campaign on BackaBuddy. International Wheelchair Day highlights the challenges faced by wheelchair users and celebrates their strength and resilience. In South Africa, various organizations and services provide vital support to help wheelchair users live independently.
Every year on the last day of February, the world observes Rare Disease Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about rare diseases and the challenges faced by those affected. In South Africa, this day serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of early diagnosis, research, and community support for individuals battling rare conditions.
Supporting the Community
With BackaBuddy being a platform to raise and support people living or battling rare diseases, many crowdfunding campaigns are actively supporting individuals facing rare diseases. Here are some campaigns that are currently raising funds:
Zeeya’s Battle Against Rare Disease
16-month-old Zeeya Moodley from Port Elizabeth is bravely battling an aggressive form of Meningococcal disease. Despite his young age, Zeeya shows incredible strength as he fights this rare, life-threatening condition. His community has come together, offering support and donations to help his family through this difficult time. The funds raised are being used for his medical treatments, hospital stays, and ongoing care.
Zeeya’s journey is a testament to resilience, and with your help, he can continue to fight.
7-year-old Joshua Louwrens’ battle with an aggressive form of cancer, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL), has united many in the community to provide financial assistance for his treatment. The funds raised will go towards covering the cost of his chemotherapy, medical bills, and other essential treatments required for his recovery.
Kyle Skidmore’s (29) struggle with a rare genetic disorder has prompted his grandparents to start a crowdfunding campaign for his treatment. The funds raised will help cover the costs of specialized treatment, therapy, and medical interventions that are essential for improving Kyle’s health.
These campaigns not only provide financial relief but also foster a sense of community and shared responsibility.
Where to Seek Help in South Africa
If you or someone you know are dealing with a rare disease, here’s where you can find help and resources through a number of organizations dedicated to rare diseases:
Rare Diseases South Africa (RDSA): This organization provides support, advocacy, and information for individuals affected by rare diseases. They work to raise awareness, improve access to healthcare, and provide guidance on navigating the complexities of rare disease diagnoses and treatments. (Visit: www.rarediseases.co.za)
The South African Rare Disease Society (SARDS): Another key resource in South Africa, SARDS focuses on advocacy and community support for patients with rare conditions. They work on policies to improve care and increase research for rare diseases in South Africa. (Visit: www.sards.org.za)
The Department of Health: The South African government offers various resources through the Department of Health, which is involved in the coordination of healthcare services for rare disease patients. (Visit: www.health.gov.za)
The South African Human Genetics Society (SAHGS): This organization provides resources and support for genetic conditions, which are often at the heart of many rare diseases. They offer guidance on genetic testing and counseling. (Visit: www.sahgs.org.za)
By raising awareness, supporting ongoing research, and contributing to crowdfunding efforts, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected. Start a campaign on BackaBuddy to raise funds for your medical needs and help others facing similar challenges get the support they need.
A group of second-year Interior Design students from Nelson Mandela University (NMU) is stepping up to make a meaningful difference in their community. Driven by a deep desire to impact lives positively, these students have taken on the challenge of transforming the Protea Child & Youth Care Centre in Forest Hill, Gqeberha. This initiative reflects not just the students’ skills, but also the powerful spirit of Ubuntu, using one’s abilities and resources to support and uplift others.
The Protea Child & Youth Care Centre is home to children who have faced significant adversity, many of whom are orphaned or victims of heartbreaking circumstances. Understanding the importance of creating a welcoming and nurturing environment, the NMU students have been working diligently to design proposals aimed at revamping two key spaces within the centre. The goal is to provide a brighter, more uplifting atmosphere that will bring joy and comfort to the children who live there.
Charista, one of the students involved in the project, shares, “This initiative is an incredible opportunity for us aspiring designers to apply our skills in a way that positively impacts our local community while creating a space that the children can enjoy for years to come.” Her words reflect the passion and commitment driving the group as they move closer to executing their designs.
The project was officially started on Tuesday 25 February, with the next steps set for the practical phase, scheduled to take place from March 29 to April 6. The students are not only working hard to finalize their designs but are also seeking to raise R15,000 on their BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign of which they have already raised R3000 with the help of 6 generous donors to bring their vision to life. This crowdfunding goal will support the purchase of materials and resources necessary to make the revamp a reality.
This project is a powerful example of how young people can make a tangible difference by using their talents and resources to contribute to the well-being of others. The collaborative effort to transform the centre is not only an exercise in design but also an embodiment of the true spirit of Ubuntu: lifting others up through selfless acts of kindness and community support.
The NMU Interior Design students are proving that even small acts of kindness can lead to monumental change. With their dedication and the community’s support, this project is set to leave a lasting impact on the children of Protea Child & Youth Care Centre, showing them that they are not alone and that there are people who care.
Little Zeeya Moodley, 16 months from Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape has faced a battle that no child should ever have to endure. Born on September 18, 2023, Zeeya’s life was forever altered when a severe case of bacterial meningitis swiftly escalated into a rare and aggressive form of Meningococcal disease. The infection brought devastating complications, resulting in the loss of his fingers and feet and affecting his brain, vision, and heart.
Photo Caption: Zeeya in hospital
A Battle Beyond His Years
Admitted to the intensive care unit in October 2024, Zeeya has experienced multiple infections, organ failures, and three resuscitations. His young body endured challenging procedures and treatments that tested his limits. Along his journey, he encountered fierce battles with gangrene, infections of the heart and lungs, and a kidney infection that required dialysis. Today, his vital organs have stabilized, offering a glimpse of promise amid the daunting struggles he has faced.
Zeeya is cared for by his devoted parents, Shaakiera (30) and Shiraaz (33), along with an 8‑year‑old sister and a 4‑year‑old brother. Their lives were turned upside down as they watched their playful child become confined to a hospital bed.
“It has been incredibly difficult for our family to see Zeeya, once such a playful and happy child, now bedridden. His condition has taken a toll, with the loss of his feet and fingers, but we remain grateful for his strength and resilience in fighting through this,” says his mom, Shaakiera.
Photo Caption: Zeeya before the disease
Adding to the family’s heartache, Zeeya’s siblings have not seen him for the past four months. They often ask where their brother is.
“The adjustment to his new needs will be challenging for all of us, as we learn how to stimulate his brain and keep his muscles moving,” she shares.
Amid these trials, the community has rallied behind Zeeya and his family. In February 2025, his mother launched a crowdfunding campaign to help cover the mounting medical expenses. So far, 54 generous donors and offline donations have contributed R23,900 toward a target of R250,000. Every contribution goes directly toward easing medical bills, securing specialized rehabilitation, and funding long‑term home care that includes physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
Looking Ahead to a New Chapter
With Zeeya’s organs now stable, preparations are underway for his return home. Medical teams have supplied essential equipment like CPAP machines, and Shaakiera is undergoing training to provide the specialized care required after discharge. Although the road ahead remains long—with continuous therapy and the need for a full‑time home caregiver—the family holds onto optimism. They look forward to the day when Zeeya’s laughter once again fills their home.
Photo Caption: Zeeya before the disease
Each small step forward is celebrated. The family invites those who have encountered similar hardships to share advice and support. As they poignantly state,
“We are deeply grateful for the support we’ve received from BackaBuddy and the broader community during this challenging time. If anyone has gone through a similar experience, we would welcome hearing from you. Any assistance—whether it’s a hospital bed, a blood pressure monitor, or even basic supplies like nappies—would be deeply appreciated.”
The funds raised through his crowdfunding campaign will secure the medical care, therapies, and home support necessary for him to build a future filled with more smiles, laughter, and cherished moments.
To support Zeeya visit their BackaBuddy campaign link here:
For over a decade, Nick Hamman (33), a beloved 5FM radio presenter, has connected with audiences across South Africa. Now, he’s using his platform to champion an amazing cause – helping Thulasizwe School for Autism in Soweto build a kitchen and food technology classroom to empower students with autism.
“I’ve always believed in using my platform to make a difference. When I heard about the amazing work Thulasizwe School for Autism does to support children with unique needs, I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. Education and inclusivity are issues close to my heart.” – Nick Hamman
Pictured above: 5 FM’s Nick Hamman
The Thulasizwe School for Autism, in association with Friends of Daniel, is the first autism-specific school in Soweto. Founded in 2016, the school provides education and essential support for 100 students aged 4 to 18. Despite their dedication, the school faces significant challenges, including the lack of a proper kitchen and classroom facilities for vocational training. Currently, meals are prepared in a makeshift kitchen, and students eager to learn culinary skills have had to travel to external facilities, an arrangement that is no longer sustainable.
To further develop the students’ talents and promote their independence, the school urgently requires two vital facilities:
A Fully Equipped Kitchen: To provide nutritious meals for students and sustain the school’s feeding program year-round.
A Food Technology Classroom: To teach essential life skills, instill independence, and provide students with hands-on training in food preparation.
Pictured above: The kitchen that the students are currently utilizing
Beyond serving the school, these facilities will double as a bakery, benefiting the local community by creating job opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and generating much-needed revenue for the school’s sustainability.
This initiative is proudly supported by Friends of Daniel, an organization inspired by Daniel Sayed (15), a talented young boy on the autism spectrum. Daniel’s unique perspective and artistic skills have been a profound source of inspiration. Recognizing his gifts and the challenges faced by autistic individuals, Daniel’s family envisioned creating something meaningful to celebrate neurodiversity and offer support to others on a similar journey.
Pictured above: Nick and Daniel Sayed
Through Daniel’s creativity and the family’s passion, Friends of Daniel seeks to inspire understanding, celebrate abilities, and provide a network of support for autistic individuals and their families. Since January 2022, Friends of Daniel has worked hand in hand with Thulasizwe School for Autism, fostering inclusivity and empowering the next generation.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
To help the Thulasizwe School build these new facilities, a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign has been created where they have already raised over R116 000 with the help of 50 incredible donors.
“This campaign is about giving children with autism the chance to thrive in environments where they feel safe, understood, and empowered. I’ve seen how a little support can create incredible opportunities for those who face challenges. This is about trying to level the playing field and making sure every child has a shot at success.” – Nick
SuperSportBet Doubles Your Impact
To maximize the impact of this initiative, SuperSportBet has pledged to match all donations, rand for rand, up to R500,000. Every contribution will go twice as far in helping these students gain independence and real-world skills.
If the campaign’s fundraising goal is not fully met, donations will still be put to good use – funding school improvements such as the renovation of play areas, the purchase of essential learning materials, and the development of a sensory room to better support students’ needs.
“Every contribution, no matter how small, has the potential to create massive change. By supporting this campaign, you’re not just donating money—you’re investing in brighter futures for these children and their communities. Let’s show the power of collective kindness and make a difference together!” – Nick
Pictured above: Students at The Music Sprouts
Pictured above: Lesson in session with teacher Michaela Gardner
Pictured above: The Music Sprouts students honing their talents
