A team of adventurers led by Cami Palomo (62), founder of the Avela Foundation, is set to embark on an arduous mountain trek to raise funds for the Umatter program. Palomo, originally from El Salvador but now living in Cape Town, will be joined by seven men, two of whom are from South Africa. The team will hike Cotopaxi, an active volcano in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador, for eight days starting from May 27th.
Pictured above: Cami Palomo Training in Drakensberg
The Cotopaxi hike is a challenging and strenuous 8-day trek that involves hiking up to 5,897 meters to reach the summit of an active stratovolcano in the Andes Mountains. The hike requires acclimatization to the high altitude, physical fitness, and proper gear. It involves ascending steep snow and ice slopes and navigating crevasses, making it a demanding physical and mental challenge.
The Avela team is hiking to raise funds for the Umatter program on BackaBuddy, a South African crowdfunding platform. Their fundraising campaign is currently running, and they have already raised over R234 000 towards their goal of R1,000,000. The Umatter program, a collaboration between the Avela Foundation and the Smile Foundation, provides emotional and physical care to young burn survivors in South Africa who are in dire need of support.
Pictured above: Team Avela From left to right Natasha Nicolakakis, Dr. Kamlen Pillay, Niki Callis, Isabella Callis, John Edwards, Roger-michael Raad, Cami Palomo. (Past and future climbers)
Burn injuries are one of the leading causes of fatal injuries among children up to the age of 15 in South Africa. The Umatter program has a growing team consisting of a program manager, clinical psychologist, national coordinator, patient wellness and support counselor, and regional coordinator. The program aims to help families navigate the challenges of burn injuries and promote healing and recovery for everyone involved.
The Umatter program collaborates with Burnshield and surgical students to distribute pamphlets and kits to communities, clinics, and schools to raise awareness about burn prevention. Additionally, the program has created a closed WhatsApp group for parents and caregivers of burn survivors to provide psychological support, counseling, and peer support.
Palomo stresses the significance of psychological support for burn survivors and their families, given the trauma and emotional distress associated with burn injuries. “Burn injuries can be extremely traumatic not just for the survivor but also on their family and loved ones,” says Palomo. “The Umatter program can help address the emotional needs of both.” With the right support, children with burn injuries can achieve remarkable things.
Pictured above: Cami with a patient at the opening of the refurbished Kimberly hospital in 2022.
Avela Foundation and Smile Foundation have previously raised significant funds for the Umatter program by climbing Kilimanjaro in 2019 and reaching Everest Base Camp in 2018, respectively, using the BackaBuddy crowdfunding platform.
The Cotopaxi hike is an important part of the Avela Foundation’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the needs of burn survivors and the importance of providing psychological and physical support to those who have suffered burn injuries. It is also an opportunity to challenge themselves physically and mentally and to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Andes Mountains.
The Avela team is calling on supporters around the world to donate to their BackaBuddy campaign and help them reach their fundraising goal. By supporting the Umatter program, donors can make a tangible difference in the lives of young burn survivors and their families and help them on their journey towards healing and recovery.
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 R400 Million.
Suraya Williams, founder of the Design26 Foundation, has launched a crowdfunding campaign on Backabuddy to raise funds to build a community sewing skills training centre in Harmony Village, Mitchell’s Plain, Cape Town. The foundation aims to empower young women in Mitchell’s Plain to become financially self-sufficient.
Williams, who is 46 years old and from Mitchell’s Plain, rediscovered her gift and passion for sewing and design after her mother’s passing on her birthday. In 2018, she founded the Design26 Foundation to provide skills, work opportunities, and a positive outlook to young women in the community.
Pictured above: Suraya Williams (Image: Fairlady Women of the future)
“The lack of job opportunities and the prevalence of drugs, alcohol, and abuse can make it difficult for young women to see a positive future,” Williams said. “The Design26 Foundation aims to break this cycle by providing training and employment opportunities to young women in our community.”
Suraya says that with youth unemployment in South Africa sitting at 43.4%, she and her team believe that providing training and employment opportunities is crucial to giving young women the tools they need to succeed.
Suraya believes that addressing the issue of youth unemployment in South Africa is critical, especially considering the high rate of 43.4%. To empower young women and equip them with the necessary skills for success, she and her team believe that offering training and employment opportunities is vital.
The foundation is seeking to raise R20 million to develop the “Hope Community Skills Centre and Manufacturing Plant” in Mitchell’s Plain. The funds will be used to purchase land from the City of Cape Town and construct a building that will house the centre and manufacturing plant. The centre will have classrooms, training facilities, and equipment for sewing and design.
To achieve their objective, Williams and the Design26 Foundation are appealing to the public to collaborate with them in creating a better future for the youth of South Africa.
One way to contribute is by donating a brick for R100 or by committing to a monthly contribution through the crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy. Donors who are comfortable being acknowledged will have their names displayed on a donor board at the new centre.
“We believe that by providing training and employment opportunities, we can give young women the tools they need to succeed,” Williams said. “Let’s make a difference together.” -says Suraya
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 R400 Million.
Greta Wilson, a dog lover and resident of Lakeside, Western Cape, has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to raise funds for Funda Nenja, an organization that focuses on animals. Funda Nenja operates in Mpophomeni Township just outside Howick, Kwazulu Natal, providing dog school classes to children and their dogs, and veterinary treatment and sterilizations.
Greta’s fundraising target is R 20,000.00, and she has already raised R 2189.20 through her campaign. To further support the cause, Greta will be doing a swim at Silvermine Dam on Friday, May 12th, to honour the memory of her recently deceased friend, Cynthia. Cynthia had planned to be Greta’s cheerleader and distance verifier but passed away in March at the age of 73.
Greta’s swim will consist of 26 lengths, approximately 7.8 kilometers, and will take between 3 -4 hours, depending on weather conditions and water chop. To ensure the swim’s accuracy, Cynthia’s friend Shireen and Greta’s aunt Jo will verify that she swims 23 lengths, each estimated at 300 meters.
Greta’s crowdfunding campaign is managed by BackaBuddy, and all payments will go directly to Funda Nenja as the sole beneficiary. Lisa Button and Adi Olivier at Funda Nenja are aware of Greta’s fundraising swim and support her efforts.
“This is my birthday wish ahead of my 2 June birthday. I visited Funda Nenja in 2016 and believe in their incredible educational work so more dogs and dog guardians can upskill for an increased understanding of what their human wants from them as much as the human understanding of their dog’s needs.”
Funda Nenja not only runs dog training classes but also supplies kennels, vaccinations, deworming, tick and flea treatments, and sterilizations with the help of volunteers and their dedicated team of vets and social workers.
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 R400 Million.
Lisa Peché, a devoted mother from Fourways, Johannesburg, is seeking support to fund her daughter Madison’s trip to Malta for the International Invitational gymnastics competition.
Madison, a gifted young gymnast, has been training since she was five years old to fulfil her dream of competing on the world stage. She has already secured over 20 trophies and 46 medals in various local and national competitions, including the gold for beam in the SA national competition last year.
Pictured above: Madison Peché
Unfortunately, the Peché family is unable to cover all the expenses associated with Madison’s trip to Malta, including airfare, accommodation, banquet and entry fees, and the correct display outfits. To make this dream a reality, they have created a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, aiming to raise R50,000.
The competition will be held in early July 2023 and it is the 38th women’s and men’s international gymnastics competition. Madison is thrilled to participate and showcase her skills at this prestigious event. Lisa emphasizes that every donation counts and any contribution towards this campaign will be greatly appreciated. Since the campaign’s launch, almost R10000 has been raised from generous donations.
Pictured above: Madison Peché
Madison’s motto is “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams,” and her family is asking for support to help her achieve hers. With the help of the public, they hope to raise the funds needed to cover the expenses and support this talented young gymnast in achieving her goals.
“Madison is generally a quiet girl, but when she competes she becomes so confident and focused. Competing brings out the best in Madison. We truly hope she will be given the opportunity to shine in Malta” – says Lisa
Pictured above: Lisa and Madison
If you would like to help Madison reach her dream, you can support her campaign on BackaBuddy here:
This is a rare opportunity for Madison, and with your help, she can make it a reality.
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 R400 Million.
Taylea duToit, a resident of Sea Point, Cape Town, launched a crowdfunding campaign to help Siyabonga “Siya” Zimoshile (44) rebuild his informal home after it was demolished by the city of Cape Town. Within 24 hours, the campaign had exceeded its target, raising R45,000 with the support of 50 donors.
Siya is a security guard at Taylea’s building, where he goes above and beyond to ensure the safety of all residents. He also maintains the gardens on his off days to provide for his family, which includes his wife and four children, the youngest of whom is only five years old.
Siya’s heroism was recently put to the test when a fire broke out in the apartment building. Siya and his fellow guards and maintenance man worked tirelessly to evacuate the building’s 14 stories, which included many children and elderly residents. Siya bravely fought the blaze until the fire department arrived, preventing further damage to property and saving lives.
Noncedo, with the children she shares with Siyabonga
A home reduced to rubble and ruin
On May 2, Siya received a devastating phone call from his wife, Noncedo (38), to say that their informal settlement in Hout Bay, where they have lived for 20 years, had been destroyed.
Siya’s family home after it was destroyed
Siya’s family was left with nothing but the clothes they were wearing when their home, along with all their possessions and stored food, was destroyed. Adding to their struggles, Siya had invested a significant amount of money to expand their home, to accommodate his growing family, only to see it reduced to rubble and ruin. With the upcoming winter, the destruction of their home has left them in a dire situation, unsure of how they will manage to get through the cold months ahead.
Taylea reached out to the online community for support, and the response to her BackaBuddycampaign was truly heartwarming. The outpouring of generosity and kindness from strangers has given Siya and his family the hope and means to rebuild their home, and to take care of themselves during the difficult times ahead. Thanks to the incredible support of the online community, Siya can now focus on what really matters – his family’s well-being.
Siya with his only daughter, Ovayo.
Siya expressed his gratitude, saying, “I am overwhelmed by the support I have received from Taylea and everyone who has donated. I never expected this much kindness from strangers. This has given me hope for a better future for my 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 R400 Million.
Sean Clarke (28), a multi-talented para-athlete from Craighall Park, Johannesburg, is an inspiring individual who overcame a severe injury at the age of 7 that resulted in the loss of use of his left leg.
Despite being classified as disabled, Sean’s determined spirit and passion for sports led him to refuse to let his injury hinder his aspirations.
In August 2022, Sean challenged himself to participate in the Comrades marathon, against the advice he was given, to fulfil a lifelong dream.
Pictured above: Sean Clarke running the Comrades (Image credit: Brandon Gould Photography)
After conquering the mammoth marathon, doctors encouraged Sean to find new avenues for physical activity, and to take on sports which would place less strain on his hips and knees.
Ever adaptable, Sean began to explore swimming and cycling as alternatives to running and did not let the setback discourage him.
Through his remarkable sporting pursuits, Sean happened to cross paths with James Willers, a 17-year-old boy from Randburg, who, due to neglect and severe burns, lost his right leg and subsequently contracted meningitis which resulted in the complete loss of his hearing.
Pictured above: Sean and James (pictured wearing his swimming medals), have a special friendship. (Image credit: Kaylin van Dyk)
Sean’s Epic challenge
Moved by James’ determination and perseverance, Sean has decided to take on a new challenge and is driving a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy,
Aiming to raise R200 000 to purchase a top-of-the-range prosthetic, and prosthetic liners, Sean hopes to alleviate the financial burden James’ adoptive parents are facing, and give James the opportunity to lead the fulfilling life he deserves.
“I am establishing an extreme aquabike/biathlon challenge in South Africa whereby I will be cycling solo from Johannesburg to Cape Town (1520 km) in 8 consecutive days, covering a distance of around 200km a day.”
“After a 24-hour recovery, I will then swim from Robben Island to Big Bay which is 7.5km as the crow flies. This will be done to not only bring about disability awareness and showcase how differently abled individuals can achieve exceptional feats but also to raise money for a very special individual.” – says Sean.
Sean’s upcoming challenge, which is set to begin on 6 October 2023, has already garnered support from around the world, raising R16 877.87, thanks to the generosity of 42 donors.
Pictured above: Sean Clarke training hard for his Robben Island/Big Bay swim. (Image credit: Kaylin van Dyk)
Sean says James embodies the type of individual we should all strive to be.
“He has a wealth of knowledge and experience that we can all learn from such as perseverance, resilience, adaptability and flexibility. Firstly, living with his disability can be challenging at times however, he has shown incredible perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. He has constantly adapted to his environment to overcome obstacles. He has shown incredible flexibility and highlighted the importance of finding new and innovative solutions to his challenges. He has taught me to appreciate the diversity and richness of human experience and that a physical disability is just one aspect of a persons identity and that every individual has the ability to make meaningful contributions to this world.” – says Sean
Pictured above: Sean Clarke and James William Thusi WIllers. ( Image credit: Kaylin van Dyk)
Sean is on track to make a significant difference in James’ life, proving that disabilities should never be barriers to success.
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 R400 Million.
