In the remote village of Gazini, KwaZulu-Natal, 13-year-old Sikholelwe Zikhali, a bright and motivated Grade 7 student at Mankunzi Primary School, has spent years overcoming immense challenges in pursuit of attending school. But now, as she prepares to transition to high school, the greatest obstacle yet threatens to stand in her way.
Pictured above: 13-year-old Sikholelwe Zikhali
Sikholelwe, who developed paraplegia at the age of five, faces a daily struggle to get to school. Each morning, she wakes up, washes, dresses, and is helped into her home wheelchair. From there, she is swung onto her mother, Khululiwe Sibiya (51), back and is carried three kilometers through thick beach sand before being transferred into her school wheelchair. The journey is grueling, but it is the only way she can access an education. At school, her friends assist her up a broken patio into a cramped prefab classroom, where she transfers out of her wheelchair onto a standard desk-and-bench setup. Despite these challenges, she remains dedicated to her studies, performing well according to her teachers and principal.
Her academic achievements are remarkable, she consistently scores a Level 7 in English, and even in her most challenging subject, Mathematics, she maintains a solid Level 5. “She is very smart,” her family shares proudly. “Being able to continue in school will definitely give her the opportunities she needs to make the most of her life!”
Pictured above: Sikholelwe with her mother Khululiwe Sibiya and her brother
During breaks, Sikholelwe enjoys throwing a ball or sitting under a tree with her friends. Even the simplest of tasks, like using the toilet, require assistance. Two of her closest friends accompany her to the pit toilets, helping her navigate the uneven and elevated platform. Each day, this routine is repeated, a testament to her resilience and the unwavering support of her mother and friends.
However, as Sikholelwe grows, so does the strain on her mother, who carries her to and from school. With no public transport options available and no wheelchair capable of handling the deep sand, the family has tirelessly advocated for a solution. For three years, they have brought their concerns before local and district government officials, department of education representatives, and disability office representatives. Yet, nothing has changed.
Pictured above: Sikholelwe being carried to school by her mother
The biggest fear is that without an alternative means of getting to school, Sikholelwe may be forced to drop out, an unthinkable outcome for a young girl with such promise. The local rehabilitation department, known for its extensive wheelchair services, has provided various models, but none are designed to handle the challenging terrain. Even power chairs, often considered a viable mobility solution, fail within meters of use due to the thick sand. The available options simply do not meet the demands of Sikholelwe’s daily journey.
Hope, however, has emerged in the form of an adapted Segway, a revolutionary mobility device capable of tackling the rugged landscape of Gazini. Unlike conventional wheelchairs, this Segway features fat tires and a self-balancing gyro mechanism, allowing it to navigate deep sand, bush paths, and inclines with ease. Sikholelwe, her parents Khululiwe and Nkosinathi Zikhali (51), and the local wheelchair services manager have tested the chair, and the results were undeniable, it outperforms anything currently available. Additionally, its long-term maintenance costs are lower than those of a traditional power chair, making it a sustainable solution for the years ahead.
For Sikholelwe, the Segway represents more than just mobility, it’s a gateway to a fuller, more independent life. “I’m so excited to finally have independence, to play, visit my friends, go to church, and even watch a soccer game,” Sikholelwe shares. “It will make such a difference for me and help take some of the burden off my mother. I know having it will make me more confident and independent.”
Her mother expresses her unwavering love and devotion. “Children are a gift from God, and this one is so special,” she says with a smile. “I will do anything to help her, it’s not a chore for me. Sikholelwe is an exceptional child.“
With this Segway, Sikholelwe will not only be able to continue her education but will also gain access to her community in ways she never has before. No longer reliant on friends to visit her at home, she will be able to attend community meetings, watch sports games, and participate fully in village life. It is a chance to break free from isolation and embrace independence.
To turn this life-changing opportunity into reality, a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign has been launched. Thanks to the generosity of 43 donors, the family has already raised over R65,000 toward their R150,000 goal. These funds are urgently needed to secure the adapted Segway, with all donations going directly to the supplier to ensure Sikholelwe receives the mobility device she needs. Depending on the total funds raised, the Segway base and chair will be purchased together or separately.
“We probably can’t put this into words properly, but thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. God bless each one of you for your donations and care. Sikholelwe has already shown extraordinary resilience, refusing to let circumstances dictate her future. Now, she needs a community to rally behind her and help remove the barriers that stand in her way. Every contribution brings her closer to the independence she deserves, ensuring that she can continue her education and one day pursue her dream of becoming a doctor.” the family shares.
For the past six years, Nonkululeko “Nonny” Mda, 47, a domestic helper and the founder of Ikhaya Lethu (Our Home), has been a lifeline for hungry children and struggling families in Promiseland informal settlement, Palmridge, Gauteng.
Since 2018, she has used her own modest earnings to provide warm, nourishing meals—especially on weekends when school feeding programs aren’t available. Now, she is reaching out for support to keep this essential initiative alive and continue making a difference in her community.
A Community in Need, A Heart That Gives
Nonny primarily helps school children, but some adults also come for meals. Many children rely on school feeding programs for their only meal of the day, but when school is closed, they sometimes go to bed without a meal. That’s where Nonny steps in, bridging the gap to ensure they don’t go without food.
She knows firsthand what it’s like to struggle. Having grown up with a single parent, she remembers moments of uncertainty—praying over their last meal, not knowing where the next meal would come from. That memory fuels her determination to ensure that no child in her community experiences the same she once did.
“I live here, and every day I see families struggling to survive, children going hungry, and parents unable to find work,” Nonny shares. “It is heartbreaking to watch people suffer, so I made it my mission to help in any way I can.”
Through Ikhaya Lethu, Nonny cooks and distributes meals to between 40 and 100 people at a time, often using her own modest earnings as a helper to supplement donations. The need is immense, and though she does everything she can, resources are always stretched thin.
“One day, I was walking down the street after buying cooking ingredients, and I asked some children to help me carry my bags,” Nonny recalls. “When I admitted I didn’t have extra change to give them, they replied with gentle smiles, ‘Mama, there’s no need to pay us—we know you’re going to cook for us.’ At that moment, I felt the true spirit of our work. I truly believe this programme has made them kinder and happier, teaching them the values of kindness and generosity.”
Caption: Founder of Ikhaya Lethu (Our Home), Nonkuleko Nonny Mda
Bridging the Hunger Gap, One Meal at a Time
Hunger in Promiseland is a daily reality. Many children rely on school meals as their only source of nourishment, but when school is out, so is their access to food. That’s where Nonny and some community members step in, ensuring that no child goes hungry over weekends.
“To continue serving our community, we need between R6,000 and R10,000 per month,” she explains. “This will help us buy food and essentials to provide hot, nutritious meals for those in need.”
Despite her best efforts, there have been times when the food simply runs out. “Rather than turn anyone away, I serve what I can from my own home,” she says. “And when supplies are low, a kind lady who sells food for a living steps in to help. Even though she is struggling herself, she always finds a way to contribute.”
With no funding for essentials like pots, plates, or cutlery, those who come for a meal—sometimes up to 100 people—bring their own plastic containers. Every effort is made to stretch what little is available, ensuring that no one is turned away.
Nonny has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to support Ikhaya Lethu, and the response has been heartwarming. Since its launch in March 2025, the campaign has already received R1,200 from nine generous donors, bringing it closer to its R20,000 goal.
For Nonny, this campaign is not just about food—it’s about dignity, hope, and a future where children can focus on their education rather than their empty stomachs. “I dream of a future where these children no longer worry about food, but can focus solely on their education and simply being kids,” she says.
Every donation to the campaign is a step toward that future. With enough support, Nonny can continue to provide warm, nutritious meals to those who need them most.
“I am very grateful to everyone who has taken the time to support our mission—whether through once-off or recurring donations to our BackaBuddy campaign, and for sharing and believing in our cause.” she says.
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.
Pictured above: 13-year-old Sikholelwe Zikhali
Pictured above: Sikholelwe with her mother Khululiwe Sibiya and her brother
Pictured above: Sikholelwe being carried to school by her mother
