by Tessa Van Rensberg | Jul 17, 2025 | Campaign, Featured
What is Mandela Day and How Can You Get Involved?
Mandela Day, held on July 18th each year, encourages individuals to spend 67 minutes doing something positive in their communities. This initiative honours Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of public service, calling on all of us to do our part—whether it’s planting trees, donating blood, feeding the hungry, or supporting a meaningful cause.
In the spirit of Mandela Day 2025, we’d like to share a few heartfelt initiatives hosted on the BackaBuddy crowdfunding platform. Supporting these campaigns is a great way to do your bit this Mandela Day.
From placing senior dachshunds with elderly companions to running 67 kilometers for mental health awareness or feeding hungry children over the weekend, each initiative contributes to real change.
Save a Frosty Face for Mandela Day 2025
Cape Dachshund Rescue (CDR) is raising R40,000 this Mandela Day to cover one month of veterinary bills for 92 senior dachshunds in its care. Operating across the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and Southern Cape, the organisation runs a Frosty Face Foster programme, which matches elderly dachshunds with people between the ages of 60 and 80. Adoption fees are waived, and vet costs are fully covered, allowing for lifelong companionship without financial burden.
Each donation—especially in multiples of R67—helps ensure these senior pets continue to receive the care and love they deserve.
The Chosen Runs: We See You Challenge
In Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, the team at Trulife is calling on the public to walk, run, or cycle 67 kilometers in July as part of the “We See You” Mandela Day Challenge. Their goal is to raise R6,700 per team to fund workshops and programs that support learners navigating trauma, often without the tools or recognition they need.
So far, over R1,900 has been raised. Additional support will help expand Trulife’s reach, allowing them to provide critical life skills and mental health education across South Africa.
Hope & Hunger: Feed the Children of Promiseland
In the informal settlement of Promiseland in Palmridge, Gauteng, 47-year-old cleaner Nonkululeko “Nonny” Mda spends her weekends feeding up to 100 hungry children through her grassroots initiative, Ikhaya Lethu (Our Home). She started this mission in 2018 after witnessing the hardship children face when school meals aren’t available on weekends.
“Weekends are the hardest for children who rely on school meals. I can’t sit back and do nothing,” says Nonny. “I use my own income and rely on donations, even if it means I go without.”
Her campaign has already raised over R25,000 of its R60,000 goal, but continued support is essential to keep these children nourished every weekend.
Mandela Day: Little Brains Deserve Big Futures
In Bellville in the Western Cape, a team of MBA students from Stellenbosch University has launched a campaign in partnership with Goldilocks and the Bear, a nonprofit that provides free mental health screenings and early intervention for children in underserved areas.
“R670 covers the full journey for one child—screening, counselling, and referrals,” the students explain. “Mental health support should never be a luxury.”
Their goal is to raise R67,000 this Mandela Day so that more children can access the mental health care they need to thrive.
Start Your Own Mandela Day Campaign
Have a cause close to your heart? You can start your own Mandela Day campaign on BackaBuddy and turn your passion into impact. Whether it’s a local clean-up, school supply drive, or a bigger community project, your 67 minutes can ripple far beyond the day itself.
Start here: Sign up to make a difference | BackaBuddy
by Tessa Van Rensberg | Jul 15, 2025 | Campaign, Featured
In the heart of Kensington, Cape Town, a single mother’s determination and an unshakable dream are the forces behind a campaign that BackaBuddy holds close. Nicole Nicci Arrison, a Systems analyst, BackaBuddy team member, side-hustling snack box queen, social media boff and hands-on mom (Yes, we also started sweating), has set her heart on giving her daughter a sixteenth birthday gift rooted in love, culture, and family: a trip to Sicily.
Nicci doesn’t just juggle life — she flips it, spins it, and somehow makes it look effortless. She’s the kind of mom who you’d think has superpowers with the amount she juggles. And when she sets her heart on something — like tracing her family’s Sicilian roots with her daughter, Qiran — nothing is going to stand in her way.
The two share an incredibly close bond, rooted in deep trust and mutual respect.
“There’s a mutual respect between us, and we’ve created a space where she can speak openly and trust that she’ll be heard without judgment. We’ve always been a team,” says Nicci.
“Some of our most treasured moments are our daily car rides — that’s our 20-minute pocket of uninterrupted connection, full of deep chats or bursts of laughter.”
Qiran, now approaching sixteen, has always shown remarkable emotional maturity. Nicci recalls a moment she’ll never forget: after her father passed away, young Qiran wrapped her arms around her mom, held her quietly, and then softly said,
“It’s going to be okay.”
“She has this quiet emotional intelligence that’s always been there. She makes me proud daily, in ways big and small,” Nicci says.
Another memory that speaks volumes:
Even though Qiran’s team had just lost a sports match, she ran straight to the teacher of the winning team and gave her a hug to congratulate her.
“That’s just who she is — gracious, thoughtful, and humble. “Says Nicci
A Journey of Heritage and Heart
Family is everything to Nicci — and those roots run deep. At the centre is her grandmother, Ma Joyce, Qiran’s great-grandmother and the family matriarch, known for her legendary lasagna and unforgettable stories.
She’s the one who passed down not just a legendary lasagna recipe, but a legacy of culture, connection, and Sicilian heritage.
“My grandmother, Ma Joyce, is Qiran’s great-grandmother and the heart of our family. Her maiden name is Gamba, and she’s passed down both our lasagna recipe and two very different origin stories.
The more believable version is that the Gambas came to South Africa as missionaries — a legacy that lives on in our family today, with one of my uncles serving as an Anglican priest. But when she’s feeling playfully annoyed with us, Ma Joyce will claim that ‘Gamba’ is short for Gambino — and we can’t help but laugh. We don’t quite believe that one, but the stories, like the recipes, are part of our family’s beautiful and layered history.” – Nicci shares
For Nicci, the kitchen has always been a sacred space of connection for her and her family.
“Growing up, the kitchen was the heart of our family — it’s where everyone connected. If you were in the kitchen, you were either helping prep or waiting to lick the spoon, LOL.”
Like the kitchen, food has always been a way for the family to connect and be reminded of their Sicilian roots.
“For us, food — especially Ma Joyce’s lasagna — has always been more than just a meal. It’s part of every birthday, every family gathering, every moment that matters. If you asked me what it tastes like, I’d say it tastes like first love — but the kind that wraps you in warmth and never really leaves you.”
The family believes their roots trace back to Palermo, and now Nicci wants to take her daughter on a journey that will once again bring their heritage to life.
For Nicci, this trip is more than a holiday. It’s a tribute, a legacy, and a love letter — from mother to daughter, to the place where it all began.
“This trip is meaningful because it’s more than a birthday celebration — it’s a moment for her to connect with where our family comes from. It’s about giving her the gift of experience, culture, and family roots — something she’ll remember forever.”
The mother-daughter duo picture wandering through the bustling Ballarò Market, spinning under the ancient arches of the Cattedrale di Palermo, and tossing coins into the Fontana Pretoria. And through each experience, feeling a long-lost tug from the cobbled streets and vibrant Sicilian culture of their roots — maybe even spotting a cousin with those signature mischievous eyebrows.
This trip has been a long-time dream for Qiran and Nicci, and now — thanks to a crowdfunding platform Nicci contributes to daily(and is the go-to for tech queries that could stump a rocket scientist) — it’s finally starting to feel like a possibility.
A Campaign Close to Home
In May 2025, Nicci launched her campaign: Qiran’s Super Sweet Sicilian Sixteenth, hoping to raise R65,000 to cover flights, accommodation, visas, travel insurance, and — of course — some pasta and gelato along the way.
So far, 17 donors have contributed over R2,000. It may seem like a modest start, but for Nicci, each donation is a message of support and belief.
“We’ve been so moved by the support,” she says. “A friend even offered her massage services for our fundraiser — no questions asked. It’s things like that that remind me just how kind people can be.”
Even Qiran, who usually avoids the spotlight, had something heartfelt to share:
“I feel happy and surprised — honestly, I feel lucky. Thank you to everyone who’s helping, even if you don’t know me. I really hope this trip happens. I saw a message saying my mommy is working really hard to make it possible. I hope it works out — for both of us.”
To support Nicci and Qiran’s journey, visit their campaign here:
👉 https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/qirans-super-sweet-sicilian-sixteenth
by Tessa Van Rensberg | Jul 11, 2025 | Campaign, Featured
Nine-year-old Amogelang Kgobe Matloga from Pretoria is facing a heartbreaking relapse of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), just months after completing his initial treatment. Yet in the face of this devastating diagnosis, it is his quiet courage and unshakable faith that have moved hearts across the country—sparking a wave of generosity as global donors rally to support his family through an online crowdfunding campaign.
Originally from the small village of Botlokwa in Polokwane, Amo is a quiet, gentle soul with a love for soccer and a deep connection to his faith.
“He likes being in charge and in control of things,” says his mother, Annah. “He really has a strong personality and a strong spirit. As young as he is, his faith is so unshakable—it amazes me every day.”
Since his initial diagnosis in August 2024, Amo has shown resilience beyond his years. While treatment has brought many challenges, he finds comfort in his family—especially his older brother (13) and younger brother (5)—and joy in the simple moments, like outings for ice cream or time together at church.
“We are the most close-knit family one could ever ask for,” Annah says. “There is nothing we love more than spending time together, especially in the house of the Lord.”
But their lives changed dramatically when Amo relapsed in May 2025. The family’s only hope now lies in a bone marrow transplant—with his father currently identified as a 50% match. While this brings some comfort, the financial strain has grown heavier since his father lost his job in March, making it difficult to afford the ongoing hospital visits, tests, and medications.
Determined to help her son get the life-saving care he needs, Annah launched a heartfelt campaign on BackaBuddy on 19 June 2025 to raise funds for his transplant.
“After receiving news of him relapsing, my world turned upside down,” she shares. “But then I remembered who my life redeemer is—the one who created Heaven and Earth.”
Her words on the campaign page echo the strength and hope that carry their family forward:
“We humbly ask for your generosity. Your contribution, no matter the size, can make a profound difference in his fight against cancer.”
So far, the campaign has raised over R51,000 towards their R250,000 goal, with support pouring in from 176 generous donors. Every donation, every message of encouragement has helped restore the family’s hope.
“To everyone who has supported us, we will forever be grateful,” Annah says. “Your generosity really means so much to us—and to our beautiful Amogelang too.”
Thanks to this growing circle of support, the Kgobe Matloga family no longer feels alone in their fight. “May you never lack, may your pocket never run dry,” Annah says. “Your support has been greatly appreciated.”
To join their journey and contribute to Amo’s healing, visit:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/hope-of-life-for-amogelang
Help Save Lives: Register as a Bone Marrow Donor
Amogelang’s story also highlights the critical need for more registered bone marrow donors in South Africa. Finding a matching donor can mean the difference between life and death for patients like Amo.
The South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR) encourages the public to join their registry and give someone in need a second chance at life. Learn more or register today at www.sabmr.co.za.
If you would like to start a campaign on BackaBuddy to support a loved one or cause close to your heart, Annah shares these words of encouragement:
“We are so grateful for this platform. It gives us hope every day that we will reach our destination and find the helpers we need.”
by Simbulele Jezile | Jul 1, 2025 | Campaign, Featured
Photo credit: Flashlight Pictures
At just 14 years old, talented Imkhitha Joya from Old Crossroads in Nyanga, Cape Town, is rewriting what’s possible for a young girl with big dreams and an even bigger heart. As one of South Africa’s brightest young talents in chess, she’s earned national recognition and international invitations. Now, all she needs is a helping hand to keep her momentum going.
Earlier this year, Imkhitha was crowned South African U14 Girls Chess Champion after finishing undefeated at the Junior Closed Chess Championships. She also swept the Western Cape High Schools U15 Girls section, winning every game with a perfect score of six out of six. Her CHESSA rating now stands at 1811, making her the top-ranked U14 girl and 6th overall among female players in South Africa.
Despite these remarkable achievements, the road has not been easy.
Photo credit: Flashlight Pictures
In 2025 alone, Imkhitha qualified to represent South Africa at the African Individual Chess Championships, the African Schools Championships, and the FIDE Youth Olympiad. But each time, she had to stay behind — not because she wasn’t good enough, but because there simply wasn’t enough money or time to raise what was needed.
Her coach and mentor, Thando Hlakula, says those missed opportunities have been some of the toughest parts of her journey. “She worked so hard to qualify, but without funding, we couldn’t make it happen. Watching her miss out on experiences she earned was heartbreaking.”
But now, there’s a second chance.
Imkhitha has been invited to represent South Africa at the World Youth Chess Championships in Albania this October, and the African Youth Chess Championships in Algeria this December. These two tournaments are not just another opportunity — they are pivotal moments in her development, stepping stones on her path to becoming a Woman International Master, and eventually a grandmaster.
To get to Albania, Imkhitha needs to raise over R94,000 on her BackaBuddy campaign. The total includes return flights, visas, entry fees, accommodation, and daily expenses for herself and her coach, who will also serve as her guardian abroad.
“So far, we’ve raised just over R19,000 from 8 incredible donors,” says Thando. “It’s been so moving to see people stepping up for her. Every bit of support, no matter the size, shows her that her hard work is seen and valued.”
Photo credit: Flashlight Pictures
Imkhitha’s story began in 2020 when she was introduced to chess through a school programme at Isigcawu Primary. It didn’t take long for her teachers and coaches to realise she had something special — but talent didn’t bring her easy wins.
“She lost every single game in her first tournament,” Thando remembers. “But what stood out wasn’t the loss — it was how she responded. She didn’t cry. She didn’t complain. She asked when the next tournament was.”
“She kept showing up, kept learning, and kept improving.”
Since then, she’s become known not just for her sharp mind, but for her humility, focus, and work ethic. Some days, she trains for up to eight hours. “She has a hunger to learn that I’ve rarely seen,” says Thando. “She doesn’t want to just be the best — she wants to keep getting better.”
Her breakthrough came this year, when she returned to the SA Junior Closed Championships with one goal in mind: to win. “Last year, she came second and was crushed by it,” he shares. “She learned from that. This year, she came back stronger, beat the defending champion, and walked away undefeated. It was a proud moment — one we’ll never forget.”
But Imkhitha’s motivation is about more than titles. She sees herself as someone who can shift perceptions — not just of what chess is, but of who belongs in the game.
“Representing South Africa is something she takes very seriously,” says Thando. “Her story challenges what people think is possible for young girls in townships like Crossroads. She’s showing that brilliance, discipline, and greatness can come from anywhere — all they need is a chance.”
Traveling internationally won’t be easy for a 14-year-old, which is why Thando will accompany her to both Albania and Algeria.
“She needs someone she trusts by her side,” he explains. “Not just for logistics, but for emotional support. Someone to help her stay grounded, strategise between rounds, and remind her why she belongs on that stage.”
For now, Imkhitha is focused on raising the funds to get there.
“Any contribution, big or small, ensures that a young girl from a disadvantaged background isn’t held back by lack of funds,” Thando says. “She’s done the work. She’s earned the opportunity. Now we just need the support to help her take that next step.”
To support Imkhitha Joya, visit her BackaBuddy campaign link here:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/get-imkhitha-to-the-world-chess-championships
by Simbulele Jezile | Jun 20, 2025 | Featured, Free Resources, Resource Hub
South Africans are giving more — and making an even bigger impact — thanks to a major change on Africa’s most trusted crowdfunding platform. As of June 2025, BackaBuddy now charges 0% platform fees on all campaigns, meaning every rand raised goes directly to the cause.
For individuals, schools, charities, and community groups, this shift is already helping more people raise funds, reach more donors, and uplift more lives.
Raising More. Giving More.
Already this year, the move to 0% platform fees has helped channel over R12 million extra directly into the hands of campaigners and charities.
In the past 12 months, more than 54,000 donations through BackaBuddy have raised over R157 million — supporting medical care, education, disaster relief, disability access, housing, and many personal needs across South Africa.
People Funding Purpose
Every day, individuals use BackaBuddy to raise funds for life-changing needs — from surgeries and school fees to funeral costs, disaster recovery, and community projects.
Whether it’s a mother crowdfunding for her child’s hearing aids, a teacher helping a student get to university, or a neighbourhood rallying to rebuild after a fire — every campaign brings hope and opportunity.
“When people feel empowered, they give more,” says Patrick Schofield, Founder and CEO of BackaBuddy. “Compulsory. Mandatory. Exclusionary. These are words I don’t like. But choice, agency, and accessibility? These are words I do. It’s what informed my thinking in developing the 0% platform fee model at BackaBuddy. Firstly to maximise funds going directly to those who need them. But also, by giving you the option to add a voluntary tip when you donate, you’re given the choice — and the agency — to support the work we do in enabling crowdfunding for others. If you feel our service is excellent and our platform delivers real value, you’ll choose to support us. And if not, you won’t. What better way to ensure everyone at BackaBuddy is super focused on excellence in service and being the best possible platform out there for you.”
Since launching in 2015, BackaBuddy has helped raise more than R630 million for over 44,000 campaigns — powered by a caring community of over 650,000 donors in South Africa and around the world.
How It Works
BackaBuddy’s 0% platform fee officially launched in June 2025. Donors now have the option to leave a small voluntary tip to help support the platform — while every rand raised (minus only third-party payment processing fees) goes directly to the campaign.
Charities Already Seeing the Difference
Both large and small charities are benefiting from the change.
Gift of the Givers shares:
“We pride ourselves on ensuring that every cent possible goes to the people we help. With BackaBuddy’s 0% platform fee and transparent cost structure, our fundraisers know that their supporters’ donations go where they’re needed most — inspiring trust and generosity.”
Charities, like Rainbows and Smiles — supporting families of children with cancer — agree:
“The 0% platform fee has been a real gift,” the team says. “It reassures donors that their contributions go directly where they’re needed — and for smaller charities like ours, it removes so much of the stress of fundraising. Every rand now makes an even bigger difference.”
Why More Are Choosing BackaBuddy
More South Africans are choosing BackaBuddy because it helps them raise more — with 0% platform fees ensuring every campaign keeps more of what it raises. The platform offers trusted, easy-to-use technology and practical tools to help campaigners tell their stories and inspire giving.
To support a fundraiser or launch your own campaign, visit:
https://www.backabuddy.co.za
by Simbulele Jezile | Jun 6, 2025 | Campaign, Featured
Picture: The 2023 Comrades Marathon down run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. Shelley Kjonstad/African News Agency (ANA)
As thousands prepare to lace up for the Comrades Marathon, a remarkable group of runners are stepping up — not just for the challenge, but for change.
Every stride on race day will cover more than distance. It will raise awareness. It will honour lives. And in many cases, it will fund vital work led by some of South Africa’s most impactful nonprofits.
At BackaBuddy, we’re proud to be the platform of choice for individuals and charities running with purpose — transforming this iconic race into a celebration of generosity, resilience, and collective action.
Running for Children, Education, and Hope
Rainbows and Smiles
Rainbows and Smiles offers emotional, social, and financial support to families facing the unimaginable: childhood cancer. Their Comrades runners race in memory of brave little warriors and in honour of those still fighting — ensuring no child faces cancer alone.
Every year, they are joined by a powerful group of supporters who turn their sweat into support. Together, they run with heart, and for hope.
Support their champions here: Rainbows and Smiles Foundation | BackaBuddy
CHOC Cows
With their unmistakable horns, high energy, and unmatched spirit, the CHOC Cows are a beloved feature of the Comrades route. But beyond the fun is a serious mission — to “keep more than hope alive” for children affected by cancer.
By fundraising through BackaBuddy, CHOC Cows and their many champions help provide accommodation, counselling, awareness, and comfort to families across South Africa.
Support the herd here: The CHOC Cows | BackaBuddy
University of Pretoria
The University of Pretoria’s Comrades runners take each step in support of access to education, groundbreaking research, and impactful community upliftment. Their fundraising contributes to student bursaries, academic development, and outreach programmes that transform lives.
This year, they’re joined by individuals such as:
- Prof Andries de Lange – A UP staff member whose campaign, From the Academic Field to the Finish Line, channels his Comrades run into fundraising for educational equity and empowerment.
- Dr Bianca Frost– A dedicated educator whose campaign, From the Classroom to the Comrades, supports young learners by showing them that discipline, dreams, and determination can cross any finish line.
Support The University of Pretoria Team here: University of Pretoria | BackaBuddy
Why Run for a Cause?
Whether you’re passionate about healthcare, the environment, mental health, education, or emergency relief — there’s a cause on BackaBuddy that speaks to every heart.
Running for a cause is an incredible achievement on its own. But using it as a platform to uplift others? That’s legacy.
And the good news? It’s simple to get started. We’re here to help you launch, share, and grow your campaign — from start to finish line.
Ready to Join the Movement?
