Jason Haas, a 15-year-old musical prodigy from Springs, Johannesburg, embodies the transformative power of music.
His story unfolds from the early age of four, when the melodies of his grandmother’s old piano captivated him, sparking a passion fueled by his mother’s love for music. This love nurtured his talent, leading him to master his first piece, Canon in D major, by ear—an early indication of his extraordinary musical intuition.
Pictured above: Jason Haas as a little boy discovering his love for the piano
Despite the lack of formal lessons, Jason’s determination saw him turning to the internet, where he fearlessly tackled compositions by his favorite composers, Frederic Chopin, and Franz Liszt, that would intimidate even seasoned musicians. His remarkable ability to grasp complex pieces by ear quickly established him as a standout talent.
Jason’s educational journey faced a hurdle when the language requirements at the East Rand School of the Arts shifted, making it difficult for him to continue his studies there. However, this setback didn’t dampen his spirit; he found a new home with the East Rand Youth Orchestra. Joining the orchestra in July 2023, Jason didn’t need to audition; he simply introduced himself, sat at the piano, and became an integral part of the ensemble, despite only having learned to read music the previous year under the guidance of Mr. J. Manamela, his piano teacher who became a mentor and friend.
Pictured above: Jason Haas
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Initially unbeknownst to his mother, Jason initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy intending to acquire a secondhand black polished Middle Ford baby grand piano, priced at R150,000. This venture is more than a quest for a musical instrument; it’s a means for Jason to engage in consistent practice and substantially improve his musical skills. Since the launch of the campaign, almost R4,000 has been raised through the generous contributions of donors.
Pictured above: Jason Haas gets to practice his piano skills once a week with the East Rand Youth Orchestra
Driven by the exemplary career of his musical hero, Kristian Zimmerman, Jason’s ambitions stretch far beyond his present situation. He dreams of achieving international renown as a pianist, envisioning a future filled with global tours, performances at celebrated concerts, and sharing his classical music passion worldwide. Beyond performing, Jason aims to contribute to the musical world by designing instruments, producing captivating YouTube content, and furthering his studies at a distinguished music college in Germany.
Central to Jason’s ethos is a deep-seated belief in music’s capacity to inspire, heal, and unite. His narrative exemplifies how resilience, inventive flair, and communal support can enable young talents to surmount obstacles. Jason hopes to encourage other young musicians with his insight: “Music is a very beautiful thing, and if you love it, pursue it. You have endless opportunities.”
As a single mum, Leanne Haas, couldn’t be prouder of her talented son.
“I am extremely proud of Jason’s accomplishments, and his Go-getter attitude in life. Despite all the challenges we have faced, he always adjusted well, did well in school, and made new friends wherever we went. I admire his resilience.
Growing up without a father hasn’t been easy, but he never let it affect him, and he has grown up to be quite an “Alpha Male” as he calls himself.” – says Leanne
Pictured above: Jason with his mom Leanne Haas and sister Azania
In the early hours of March 6, 2018, Mhlengi Gwala, then in his late twenties and a rising star in international triathlon from South Africa, endured an attack that would irrevocably alter his life.
During a training session in Durban, he was viciously assaulted by assailants who pulled him from his bike and brutally injured him, sawing into the calf of his right leg, severely damaging muscles, nerves, and bones, before attacking his left leg. Yet, this harrowing incident did not break Gwala’s spirit; rather, it paved the way for a new chapter in his life as a para-athlete.
Pictured above: Mhlengi at Durban Prosthetic, getting his new prosthetic leg.
Born and raised in the Chesterville township of Durban, Gwala, now 32, faced a monumental transformation following the assault. As he was undergoing surgery, a friend initiated a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign aptly titled “Get Mhlengi back on his bike.” This campaign struck a chord with people globally, raising over R764,000, vital for his medical expenses rehabilitation, and also contributing towards building a house for his mother.
Fast forward to 2024, and Gwala has emerged as a formidable figure in para-athletics. Taking control of his fate, he launched a new BackaBuddy campaign to support his journey to The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, where he will compete alongside 4,400 athletes from a record number of National Paralympic Committees.
Pictured above: Gwala training at Kings Park in Durban this year.
Gwala is set to participate in the challenging Para triathlon, which will start from a floating pontoon at the iconic Pont Alexandre III bridge in Paris. This picturesque course will lead him past notable landmarks, including a 750m swim in the Seine, followed by a 20km bike and 5km run through areas near landmarks such as Le Grand Palais and l’Assemblée nationale.
Gwala’s relentless resilience has led to remarkable achievements in his sporting career. He has been crowned a 3x African champion and has achieved significant placements in various international competitions, including:
– **12th Place:** 2021 World Championships in Abu Dhabi
– **1st Place:** 2022 RSA Championship
– **7th Place:** 2022 World Para Cup in Coruna
– **1st Place:** 2023 African Championship in Hurghada
Pictured above: Mhlengi at the World Paratriathlon Cup (Bari, Italy 2022)
As Mhlengi prepares for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, scheduled for August 28 to September 8, his profound dedication to his sport is reflected in his rigorous training routine. Embracing the disciplines of running, swimming, and cycling, Gwala is leaving no stone unturned in his quest for Paralympic glory.
To support this journey, he has initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to purchase a Speed Concept SLR 7 bike, which costs about R195,000.
The Speed Concept SLR 7 is more than just a bike; it’s an aerodynamic carbon triathlon bike engineered for incredible speed and seamless integration. Every aspect of this bike, from the lightweight aero frame and ride-smoothing IsoSpeed to its cutting-edge fuel and hydration system, is designed for peak performance.
The outpouring of global support that Gwala has received throughout his journey is a vivid illustration of the impact of community in triumphing over adversity.
“The people of South Africa and across the world are the ones who have kept me going. Their support and well-wishes – and my children – are what kept me going.”
Pictured above: Mhlengi at KZN Cycling Champs.
This solidarity has not only bolstered his athletic endeavors but also serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It highlights how collective encouragement and support can propel individuals to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Gwala’s remarkable transition from the victim of a vicious assault to a hopeful for the Paralympics and a celebrated para-athlete transcends the realm of personal achievement.
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 R490 Million.
BackaBuddy is reshaping the landscape of online fundraising with an announcement that promises to elevate the efforts of registered non-profit organizations nationwide.
Effective immediately, BackaBuddy is launching a 0% platform feefor registered non-profit organizations utilizing our platform for their fundraising campaigns. Therefore, the only fees incurred when non-profits receive donations on our platform are the payment gateway fees, which include PayPal, Snapscan, Instant EFT, and credit card charges.
In a bold bid to empower charities to extend their reach and better serve their beneficiaries, BackaBuddy’s 0% platform fee initiative extends to both charities that are already raising funds on our platform and registered organizations yet to begin their crowdfunding journey.
With our 0% platform fee, we acknowledge the ever-growing needs of charitable causes alongside the constraints of available resources, setting the stage for a transformative shift in the world of charitable crowdfunding.
“It is very appealing for us to work with a 0% platform fee crowdfunding organization like BackaBuddy. This approach ensures that the NGOs receive the full value of each donation, enabling us to allocate resources more effectively toward our causes. Donors, by giving a tip demonstrate their commitment to the NGO’s mission and contribute not only to the cause itself but also to the organization’s operational sustainability. The Avela Foundation is a very small NGO and having the total commitment from our donors is huge. This model fosters a strong sense of collaboration and transparency as well” – says Cami Palomo, Founder of the Avela Foundation, an organization that advocates for burn survivors.
Elevating Communities Through Unparalleled Support
Non-profit organizations are the unsung champions of our society, answering the call for help amid adversity. These indispensable entities are witnessing a surge in demand for their services in the face of economic hardships, environmental challenges, and educational gaps. BackaBuddy is resolutely committed to addressing these pressing concerns.
A Legacy of Empowerment
BackaBuddy NPC has been a steadfast advocate of generosity, empathy, compassion, and kindness throughout South Africa, since our launch in 2015. Through the collective efforts of the donor community, we have raised over R445 Million through +485 000 donations, extending support to +9,000 charities (including notable organizations such as Gift of the Givers, The South African Bone Marrow Registry, and Rainbows And Smiles). Furthermore, we have supported more than 54,000 individual causes in raising funds.
CEO of BackaBuddy, Patrick Schofield, emphasizes our steadfast commitment: “Our mission at BackaBuddy is to provide campaign creators with the best support and platform to raise the funds they need. Behind the scenes, our highly knowledgeable team offers advice, guidance, verification, and marketing support. Furthermore, for our donors, our team and platform provide the reassurance and impact updates that show their contributions are utilized responsibly and make a meaningful difference.” – says BackaBuddy CEO,Patrick Schofield.
Empowering Charitable Impact
Non-profit organizations eager to harness the power of BackaBuddy’s 0% platform fee can effortlessly register and activate their campaigns.
Charities currently raising funds on Backabuddy, Activate your 0% here:bit.ly/45keekl
Charities not yet raising funds on Backabuddy, Register here:bit.ly/3s1GoSV
Larry Nyoni, a dedicated father hailing from Yeoville, Johannesburg, and working as a barrister for the Just Darling coffee van, has emerged as a true hero after demonstrating exceptional courage in the face of a life-threatening situation at Marist Brothers Linmeyer.
It was a fateful day on Friday, the 23rd June, the last day before the midterm break, when Larry found himself at the center of a heart-stopping incident in the school parking lot. A driver suddenly suffered a seizure while driving, causing their car to collide with another vehicle.
The situation quickly escalated, and the driver was in dire need of immediate medical attention. In a state of panic, Larry swiftly contacted the school’s medical officer, who urged him to seek help as the drivers’ condition deteriorated rapidly, turning blue before his eyes. Faced with a race against time, Larry took matters into his own hands.
Without a moment’s hesitation, Larry sprang into action, fully comprehending the gravity of the situation. In a split second that would forever change lives, he made a bold decision. Displaying unwavering courage, Larry punched and shattered the car window when no other tools at his disposal granted him access to the distressed driver. This selfless act enabled the school’s medical officer to provide the crucial and urgent medical attention required to save a life. Larry’s bravery not only averted a potential tragedy but also showcased his unwavering commitment to helping others during times of crisis.
However, Larry’s act of heroism did not come without personal cost. While he bravely saved a life, he sustained severe injuries to his arm, necessitating multiple stitches. Thankfully, the school ensured that he received medical attention for his wounds.
Despite the pain and sacrifices he endured, Larry remains resolute in his belief that no obstacle should hinder his determination to assist those in need. His unwavering conviction to extend a helping hand is truly admirable.
Larry Nyoni, Barista Turned Hero.
Larry’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the extraordinary compassion that permeates our community. It epitomizes the true spirit of heroism, inspiring us all to embrace kindness, empathy, and the willingness to lend support. Today, we invite you to join us in expressing our deepest gratitude to Larry for his incredible bravery and unwavering dedication to the well-being of others.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Recognizing Larry’s selfless act, Renay Tandy, a fellow parent from the school and co-founder of Ngage, was profoundly moved when news of Larry’s actions began to spread throughout the school. Without hesitation, she sprang into action herself, launching a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to reward Larry’s heroics.
The campaign, which serves as a token of appreciation and means to provide Larry with much-needed support, has since raised over R7000, towards the fundraising target of R15,000. Funds will also be used to provide clothes and other essentials for his two boys, Ethan (6) and Jayden (6 months), who undoubtedly take immense pride in their extraordinary father.
Let us come together as a community to show our appreciation and gratitude to Larry for his exceptional kindness and heroic deed.
Through our support, we can make a difference in the life of a true hero who reminds us all of the incredible power of compassion and selflessness.
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.
The Durban beaches are open and keen swimmers are getting ready for the epic Oceans 8 Charity Swim in support of local charities! Taking place on Friday, 16 and Saturday, 17 June 2023 at the Durban Undersea Club, Oceans 8 Charity Swim consists of a 1 Mile and 8 Mile ocean swim with swimmers of all ages excited to take to the water.
“We are excited to announce that everything is on track for what looks to be a fantastic Oceans 8 Charity Swim, and with so many NPOs in need of assistance, we’re encouraging as many people to enter this year as possible!” said Oceans 8 Charity Swim event spokesperson, Hilary Bruss.
“We already have 95 x 8 Mile swimmers and 58 x 1 Mile swimmers registered, raising an amazing R666 224 for charity so far, with our youngest competitor coming in at 11 years and our oldest at 76 years. This really is a race for everyone to do something worthwhile for our deserving NPOs.”
Dundee-born Trevor Lauf might be coming in as the oldest competitor to be swimming 8 miles, but he’s coming in with a wealth of competitive experience, having competed in several marathons, including the Comrades, as well as several triathlons, winning his age group in the SA Champs.
Having spent 18 years in the retail industry before moving to the medical industry in Gauteng, Lauf has been happily retired in Prestondale, uMhlanga for the past six years, taking advantage of the outdoor KZN lifestyle on offer.
“Swimming is now my first love, and I swim with the DUC [Durban Undersea Club] with a great group of people about three or four times a week,” explained the avid swimmer and surfski paddler. “We often swim about 10km in the ocean, so I’m ready for the Oceans 8 Charity Swim. Bring it on!”
Also competing on the day is Transkei-born Athini Mbena, who says he’s excited to be swimming with ‘world-class swimmers from the Durban Undersea Club’:
“I’m from Lusikisiki and grew up swimming in dams and rivers. We used to go, once a year, to the beach at the Wild Coast. I learned freestyle swimming two years ago at the age of 30 and absolutely love swimming! it’s a great honour for me to be part of this event, I’m really excited for the charities we’re raising funds for so they can continue to do their good work.”
Oceans 8 Charity Swim was started by five charities – Duzi Umngeni Conservation Trust (DUCT), the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), Project Rhino, Singakwenza, and WILDTRUST – to provide a reliable and sustainable flow of funding to 14 deserving non-profit organisations in and around KwaZulu-Natal. All funds generated through the 8 Mile Swim will support the work of these five main charities.
In addition to this, funds generated by the 1 Mile swim will assist a further 9 invitational charities, namely:
Entries are still open for anyone wanting to enter the 1 Mile swim in this first-of-its-kind, warm water ocean challenge exclusively for charity. Entry for the 1 Mile is R150, with participants required to either raise R850 for charity or make the full donation themselves. Every cent of this fundraising goes to the nine invitational charities!
Swimmers only need to enter their age category even if they are competing for their age-group medal. Non-competitive swimmers are welcome to choose any of the 8 events over the 2 days to participate. In an effort to minimise plastic use, Quench fresh spring water will be available on tap and Discovery are donating a reusable water bottle to every competitor.
Supporters are also encouraged to come out and cheer on these determined competitors as they brave the (almost) chilly Durban waters for a good cause. Renowned local MC Danny Guselli will keep everyone updated with commentary at the event, and the little ones will enjoy meeting The Sharks mascot, Sharkie, as well as uShaka Marine World’s ocean warriors; Phila the Penguin, Siva the Seal, Raggy the Shark and Delia the Dolphin.
Oceans 8 Charity Swim Event Details
Friday, 16 June
Event 1: 7am – Start of 8 Mile and race for 71 and over, and disabled
Event 2: 8.15am – Race for 61 to 70 years
Event 3: 9.30am – Race for 51 to 60 years
Event 4: 10.45am – Race for 41 to 50 years
Saturday, 17 June
Event 5: 7am – Race for 31 to 40 years
Event 6: 8.15am – Race for 21 to 30 years
Event 7: 9.30am – Race for 15 to 20 years and inter-school boys
Event 8: 10.45am – Race for U14 and inter-school girls
Registration for both days: 5am to 6am
Race briefing on both days: 6.30am
Event organisers thanked main sponsors Discovery, Mr Price Sport and Pick ‘n Pay. Thanks are also extended to SAPPI, ShipTech, Adviceworx GFP Financial Planning, Aheers Multisave, Overstone Cottages, Afcon Industrial Equipment, Electrical Projects, and LED Urban for making the event possible.
To enter the Oceans 8 Charity Swim, visit www.oceans8swim.co.za.
Keep updated on all the action by following @oceans8_charityswim on Instagram and oceans8swim on Facebook.’
Create a crowdfunding 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.
Dirk Brouwer (61), a resident of Strathavon, Johannesburg, has embarked on a deeply moving crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to raise funds for his first grandson, Levi, who was born on January 23, 2023, with a rare Congenital Heart Defect known as singular ventricle complex.
Pictured above: Levi Brouwer
Levi’s unique heart condition, affecting only 0.005% of newborns, means he has only one chamber instead of the usual four. This poses a significant challenge as oxygenated and deoxygenated blood mix within his delicate heart, placing strain on his lungs and depriving his system of vital oxygen.
While his condition cannot be cured, it can be managed through a series of intricate open-heart surgeries over the course of several years.
When Levi’s parents, Duan (28) and Cayley Brouwer (27), received heart-wrenching news about their son’s condition, they faced three difficult choices. The first option, terminating the pregnancy, was unbearably painful and would have meant depriving Levi of experiencing the beauty of life.
The second option involved subjecting Levi to a series of risky open-heart surgeries, the first of which had to be performed within his first fragile weeks. The third option, equally heartbreaking, was to forgo the surgeries and provide Levi with hospice care upon his arrival into the world.
Pictured above: First Mother’s day: Duan and Cayley with their son, Levi Brouwer.
Filled with boundless love and an unwavering spirit, Duan and Cayley chose the second option, cherishing every moment they can spend with their resilient Levi. However, this decision has placed them under immense financial strain. Duan had to leave his career in the live events industry to be Cayley’s pillar of strength, ensuring he remains by Levi’s side to face any unforeseen medical emergencies.
Meanwhile, Cayley had to put aside her professional aspirations to devote herself entirely to Levi’s intricate care.
The family is now burdened with a daunting financial responsibility that exceeds R3 million (ZAR) for the necessary medical treatments, with costs surpassing R1.3 million even after the initial surgery. Seeking comprehensive medical coverage, the family joined a medical aid membership that requires a monthly sum of approximately R10,500 (+- $600).
Unfortunately, their previous plan did not cover the specialized care Levi requires, adding to the already overwhelming financial strain.
With a heavy heart but filled with hope, Levi’s grandfather, Dirk, has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy with the ambitious goal of raising R240,000 ($13,000).
These funds are crucial to cover Levi’s treatment over the next 12 months as he undergoes multiple surgeries and medical interventions.
Pictured above: 3 generations, Dirk with his Duan and grandson, Levi.
The campaign aims to alleviate the tremendous financial burden weighing on Duan and Cayley, empowering them to navigate Levi’s complex medical journey while bridging the income gap caused by Duan’s career transition. Since its launch, the campaign has already raised almost R20,000 with the support of 17 donors on BackaBuddy.
Levi’s unwavering resilience is evident through the successful completion of his first open-heart surgery at just two weeks old. This achievement has filled the family with hope as they prepare for his upcoming surgery, the “Glenn shunt” procedure, scheduled for June 28, 2023, when Levi will be 5 months and 5 days old.
During this procedure, his pediatric surgeon will redirect the blood flow returning from the top half of his body directly to his lungs, which will reduce the amount of deoxygenated blood in his heart.
The final operation, anticipated when Levi is around 3-4 years old, will redirect the blood flow from the bottom half of his body to his lungs, concluding his open-heart surgeries and resolving the blood mixing issue.
Cayley expresses her love and gratitude for Levi, saying, “Levi is an incredible little boy. He takes every challenge in his stride, with a smile on his face. He has taught me and his father what it truly means to be strong and how to go through life with grace and joy in your heart. He is a blessing to all who know him, especially to me and his father. The love I have for this little boy is immeasurable, and I cannot wait to see all the adventures he gets to have throughout his life. Levi is our little miracle.”
Pictured above: Cayley with son, Levi.
Duan adds, “Levi has inspired me to be a better father, son, and husband. Seeing the way my little boy looks at this new world has made me appreciate all of life’s beauty anew each day. Levi wakes up every day ready to learn something new and gets excited every time he hears his mother’s voice. To see my son grow and fall deeper in love with his mom every day makes my daily challenges a joy instead of a chore. The love I have for my son and my wife is indescribable, and I thank God for every precious second.”
Dirk Brouwer, Levi’s compassionate grandfather, understands the heart-wrenching challenges faced by families with premature children. Empathizing with the emotional turmoil of balancing work obligations and being there for loved ones during their most vulnerable moments, Dirk has taken on the responsibility of managing the funds for Levi’s medical care.
By initiating the crowdfunding campaign, Dirk aims to celebrate Levi’s indomitable spirit and demonstrate his unwavering belief in the power of love and community support.
Pictured above: Levi Brouwer
Dirk extends a heartfelt invitation to compassionate souls from all walks of life to embrace the opportunity to make a difference. In this collective outpouring of kindness, no act is too small, and each contribution, regardless of size, will forever leave a mark of love and hope upon Levi’s indomitable heart.
“We are immensely grateful to have had Levi with us for five months already. He is a God-given miracle who fills our hearts with immeasurable joy, happiness, and gratitude. This young, faithful family holds an incredibly special place in our hearts,” expresses Dirk, speaking on behalf of the family.
To support the extraordinary medical journey of baby Levi, please visit Dirk Brouwer’s crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy and join the compassionate community rallying behind this resilient family.
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.
