Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) in South Africa remains a severe crisis, with over 4,000 women killed by men last year alone. With this alarming reality, Women For Change (WFC), a nationwide non-profit organisation (NPO), has been a crucial support system for survivors, offering advocacy and a voice to those silenced by violence. Despite their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts, WFC now stands on the brink of closure due to financial instability.
Rising Against Challenges
Women For Change initially gained recognition by hosting successful Women For Change Races between 2016 and 2019 to raise awareness against GBV. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 halted their events. Refusing to let their efforts against GBV die down, WFC turned to social media as a powerful tool for change. They began amplifying their message, sharing stories of South African women, and providing support to survivors on their journey.
Caption: Clareinch Post Office, Cape Town
The organisation’s reach has grown remarkably, boasting nearly 400,000 followers across all social media platforms. Each month, they assist over a thousand survivors, offering a safe space for healing and empowerment. In April 2024 alone, they garnered over 28 million impressions across social media channels. More than 1 million people engage with their content monthly, creating a supportive and active community. Yet, despite these impressive numbers, the organisation’s operations are threatened by a lack of sustainable funding.
“We’re Stretched to Our Limits”
“The funding challenge WFC faces is exceptionally dire. For the past four years, I have been running this organisation primarily on my own, without any external funding,” shares founder Sabrina Walter.
“Without funding, we can’t continue our work. We’re stretched to our limits. If we don’t secure funding by August 2024, we’ll be forced to cease operations, leaving countless survivors without the support they rely on.”
Despite these limitations, WFC has made significant strides. The emotional toll of the work is immense, yet the courage of survivors and their families keeps Walter inspired and motivated. Witnessing survivors achieve justice and reclaim their power brings immense pride, even though true justice often remains elusive.
Caption: In Front of Parliament, Cape Town – GBV March 2021
“I haven’t witnessed much justice, but I’ve seen resilience and strength. Many stories have become a part of me and inspire me to work harder,” says Walter. “We need more than just passion; we need resources to keep operating.”
Reflecting on the impact of WFC’s growth, she notes, “I did not know or plan for Women For Change to become one of the flagship organisations in the fight against GBV. Today, WFC has close to 400,000 followers across all our social media platforms, and I assist more than a thousand survivors every month.”
The Power of Collective Action
Without the allocation of funding or financial contributions, WFC will be forced to cease operations in the upcoming weeks, which would have devastating consequences for survivors, their families, and the community they serve.
To help secure funding and hire the support of a full-time team, WFC has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, hoping to receive donations from compassionate individuals, philanthropists, and supportive corporates to provide the necessary resources to sustain the organisation and enable them to provide essential support to women and children in need.
Since the launch, over 240 unique and offline donors have come together to support WFC by contributing over R107,000 towards their fundraising goal of R800,000.
“Every donation can make a difference. We need the community’s support to keep our doors open,” urges Walter. “With enough donations, we can hire professionals who share our passion and continue to provide essential services.”
One of the most significant changes observed is the increase in individuals speaking out against GBV. WFC has created a safe and supportive environment where survivors feel empowered to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and collective strength. However, the stark reality of rising femicide and GBV statistics reminds us of the work still needed.
“I believe that on WFC accounts, more voices are being heard than ever before. We have not only encouraged survivors to speak out but have also fostered a sense of community and collective strength,” says Walter. “Many survivors no longer feel isolated with their pain and trauma; they know they are not alone.”
To support Women For Change, visit their BackaBuddy campaign:
All donors are eligible for a Section 18A tax certificate issued by Women For Change.
Update from Women For Change:
Dear Community,
Today marks the beginning of Women’s Month, and I want to take this moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who has supported our Back A Buddy Fundraiser since we launched it in April. Thanks to your generosity, we have raised over R107,000 – a testament to the incredible community we have built together. Your support is not just appreciated; it is vital to our mission and to the survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) who rely on us. As the founder of Women For Change, I am both proud and humbled by the kindness, dedication, and love of our supporters. You are the reason we can dream of a better, safer future for so many.
However, despite this remarkable progress, we are still facing significant challenges. We have not yet secured any grants or funding from businesses, and we are still short of the R800,000 needed to employ a full-time team and operate until the end of our financial year. My heart aches at the thought of not being able to continue this vital work. We are still fundraising during Women’s Month, still hopeful, and still fighting to secure the necessary resources to support survivors of GBV. If we are unable to secure the required grants by the end of the year, we will be faced with the heartbreaking decision to cease operations. I urge you, from the depths of my heart, to take action and help us continue making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
Your support means everything to us and to the countless survivors who depend on our work.
Charlton Mnyasta, an 18-year-old chess prodigy and grade 12 student at Elsies River High School, Cape Town, has been selected by Chess South Africa to represent the country in three major international tournaments this year.
Pictured above: Chess champion Charlton Mnyasta
Charlton’s journey in chess began seven years ago. Since then, his dedication and exceptional skill have earned him a prominent place in South African chess. Recently, he scored an impressive 8.5 out of 9 at the South African Junior Chess Championship 2024, securing his place at the World Junior Chess Championship in India next month and the Africa Junior Chess Championships in Egypt in November.
Beyond these accomplishments, Charlton has made a name for himself locally, securing a joint first-place finish at the Cape Town Open Chess Championship, winning first place at the Steinitz Chess Festival, and achieving fourth place at the South African Closed Chess Championship. These victories have not only established him as a formidable player but have also secured his spot on the South African Men’s team for the Chess Olympiad in Hungary this September.
Charlton’s dedication to chess is evident in his achievements and his aspirations. “I’m thrilled and honoured to represent my country. While I’m able to play the local tournaments within my province, it becomes challenging when I need to participate in inter-provincial and even more so on an international stage as the costs associated with these tournaments are too much,” Charlton told Daily Voice.
Pictured above: Charlton proudly showing off his trophies
The financial burdens of competing internationally are significant. Llewelyn Louw, chairperson of the Blackjacks Chess Club and Development Officer of the Cape Town Chess Federation, has taken up the cause to support Charlton. Louw is currently raising R50,000 through a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to cover Charlton’s expenses for the championships in India and Egypt.
“I have been part of the chess fraternity for over 25 years, I have seen too many brilliant and talented chess players fall by the wayside and not become professionally recognised chess players because of financial constraints and a lack of funding afforded to this sport,” says Louw. He emphasizes the importance of supporting young talent like Charlton, who has the potential to build a prosperous future through chess if given the necessary financial support. “Charlton has the talent and determination to represent his country in many tournaments around the world but is not able to because financially he is handicapped.”
Pictured above: Madswimmer Founder Jean Craven waves the SA flag high
CAPE TOWN – “The Sky is the Limit” Madswimmer Team triumphantly returned to a camp in Kagkot in the Himalayas on Sunday afternoon, the 12 of May, marking their reconnection with civilization and their first steps on solid ground after a grueling fifteen-day ascent on the icy slopes of Mt. Putha Hiunchuli in the Himalayas. Their mission was to complete the highest-altitude swim ever recorded.
On the morning of May 10th, at an altitude of 6,405 meters, the team achieved their ambitious goal. They surpassed the previous record of 6,370 meters set by Australian Dan Bull in the Andes Mountains in South America, thus shifting the highest swim record to a new continent under challenging conditions- a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
Jean Craven, expedition leader and founder of Madswimmer, noted that the trek to the swim site was the most arduous part of the journey. Following three flights and a nerve-wracking 17-hour Jeep ride along steep cliffs, the team embarked on a 138km uphill trek that lasted 15 days. With the aid of eighteen sherpas and a caravan of 35 donkeys and yaks, they transported over a ton of equipment and supplies essential for their survival. They faced harsh icy conditions, battling wind and snow, and navigated treacherously near crevasses that threatened to collapse beneath them.
Pictured above: Madswimmers Vanes-Marie Du Toit, Neo Mokuene, Deniz Kayadelen, Chiara Baars (Team Doctor), Thufayl Ali (Cameraman), Sean Disney (Himalaya Tour leader) and Sean Jean Craven, Madswimmer Founder
Describing the swim, Jean recounted, “The last accessible liquid (swimmable) water was found at 4,900 meters. To achieve a world record, we needed to venture higher and create a suitable swimming environment at 6,405 meters. We carved out a swimming hole in the ice and melted ice in large drums that preserved the liquid water overnight. The swimming hole was covered under a tent canvas to prevent refreezing at night. The next morning, we removed the canvas, filled the ice hole with the liquid water we preserved, and took turns swimming in it for about three minutes each, wearing Speedos only. The water was chillingly cold at 3.7 degrees Celsius, with the outside temperature at minus six.”
Pictured above: Madswimmer Vanes-Marie Du Toit takes the plunge
The expedition was conducted with a commitment to environmental stewardship. After their historic swim, the water was carefully returned to the mountain, where it refroze.
Dr. Chiara Baars, the team doctor, diligently monitored the members’ vital signs and general health throughout. Oxygen levels were measured in the morning and again at night and it was interesting observing how sleep aided their acclimatisation overnight. Despite most team members lacking experience in high-altitude climbing, none suffered severe shortness of breath or other altitude symptoms. Three members took medication to facilitate acclimatisation, which was discontinued as they began their descent. Post-swim, everyone was warmed in heated tents, dressed in warm clothes covered with hot water bottles, ensuring their bodies recovered well from the extreme cold.
The team emphasised that their expedition aimed to witness and document the impacts of climate change. They encountered alarming signs, like running water appearing nearly 5,000 meters above sea level. The solid ice is crucial for binding the soil in these frigid zones. The melting of it threatens devastating land and mudslides that could obliterate communities. With global awareness campaigns initiated by Nepalese tourism and the vivid documentation by Madswimmer, the team hopes to spark meaningful discussions and highlight the urgent need to address climate change.
Pictured above: Madswimmer Neo Mokuene takes an icy dip.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
‘The Sky is the Limit’ Madswimmer Team has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to support two children’s charities with their dedicated swim: the Universitas Academic Hospital Oncology Unit for Teens and Adolescents and the Red Cross Children’s Hospital.
Red Cross Children’s Hospital, Cape Town
The Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town provides critical paediatric care to children from across South Africa. Support for this hospital ensures the continuation and expansion of their life-saving work, offering a brighter future for children in need.
Adolescent Oncology Unit, Universitas Academic Annex Hospital, Bloemfontein
The Adolescent Oncology Unit at Universitas Academic Annex Hospital in Bloemfontein focuses on providing specialised care for teenagers battling cancer. Donations help fund renovations, create a lounge and entertainment area, and ensure that teenagers receive the best possible care during their fight.
So far, the BackaBuddy campaign has raised R24,200 of their R2,000,000 goal with the support of 17 donors.
Every year, Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse of The Cape of Good Hope SPCAcommemorates his birthday in a profoundly meaningful way. Instead of seeking gifts, he dedicates his special day to the voiceless and vulnerable. This year, he has chosen to champion the cause of Toby, a dog whose heart-wrenching plight and indomitable spirit epitomize the essence of survival and hope.
Image: Jaco and Toby. (Cape of Good Hope SPCA)
A Harrowing Rescue from Despair
It was a distressing weekend when Inspector Jeffrey Mfini rushed to save Toby following urgent reports of neglect. Tragically, Toby was found emaciated and barely alive, punished by his owners—who starved him for allegedly harming a cat—confined in a narrow, dark alley beside their house. This cruel treatment has since led to legal action against the owners, spearheaded by the SPCA.
Image above: Survival dog Toby
Toby’s Fight for Life
Upon rescue, Toby’s condition was critical, scoring just 1 out of 5 on the health scale and suffering from severe anemia due to starvation. The SPCA’s dedicated team wasted no time in administering emergency care, including a lifesaving blood transfusion needed to replenish his depleted red cells and restore vitality to his weak body. With each passing day under meticulous care, Toby shows small yet hopeful signs of recovery; his first joyful bath marked a poignant milestone, washing away some of the pains of his past.
Image: Toby is making a comeback
A Birthday Wish to Save Lives
This year, as Jaco Pieterse celebrates another year of life, he is fervently rallying support for Toby through a BackaBuddycampaign launched in honor of his birthday on May 18. Inspired by last year’s success, raising over R45,000 and catalyzing numerous rescue operations, Pieterse is determined to exceed that achievement. Just three days into the campaign, the generosity of over 100 donors has brought hope closer to reality, amassing nearly R40,000 towards the goal.
Image: Washing away the pains of the past
Toby’s Remarkable Recovery
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA shares an encouraging update: “Is it our imagination or is there a little more pride in the tilt of his head? He has a little more swagger and a little less stumble in his step that’s for sure. It’s amazing what love can do, and there’s no shortage of it for Toby! Not from our Chief Inspector Jaco Pieterse, our hospital team, or YOU! Thank you for supporting Toby’s fight to live so generously.”
Join Us in Making a Profound Impact
“Please consider making a donation to the Cape of Good Hope SPCA in honor of my birthday on May 18. Your generosity will support not only Toby’s recovery but will also ensure that the SPCA can continue their critical work. Let’s make this birthday one that brings hope and new beginnings to many. Thank you for helping us continue our mission,” says Jaco.
Daniel Kolver, a driven 16-year-old athlete from Knysna, Western Cape, represents the pinnacle of commitment and excellence in the demanding world of modern pentathlon. This Olympic sport, composed of fencing, freestyle swimming, obstacle course racing, laser pistol shooting, and cross-country running, demands versatility and exceptional skill across multiple disciplines.
Pictured above: Daniel Kolver takes the lead in a cross-country event
A little over a year ago, Kolver set a formidable goal: to earn Junior Protea colours in modern pentathlon. His relentless pursuit of this goal involved overcoming injuries, pushing through intense pain, and sacrificing countless personal hours for rigorous training. His efforts culminated in a remarkable achievement at the South African modern pentathlon championships in Somerset West this April, where he not only won the U19 category but also secured his Junior Protea colours.
Pictured above: Daniel Obstacle course racing: A dynamic challenge in the modern pentathlon lineup.
This outstanding performance has qualified Kolver for the Modern Pentathlon Junior World Championships and African Championships in Egypt at the end of June. Securing a place at this international event is not just a personal triumph for Kolver; it also brings prestige to the Knysna community, which is committed to fostering excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities.
However, participating in this international competition carries substantial costs, estimated at around R60,000. These costs include expenses for travel, accommodation, competition fees, and the necessary upgrade to an international standard fencing kit, as his current gear does not meet international standards.
Pictured above: Daniel Obstacle course racing: A dynamic challenge in the modern pentathlon lineup.
In response, a crowdfunding campaign has been initiated on BackaBuddy to gather the necessary funds. With R14,800 already raised thanks to the generosity of eight donors, there remains a significant amount to be covered to reach the R60,000 target.
Contributions of any size are invaluable and will assist in covering these essential costs, enabling Kolver to compete on the global stage and strive for his Junior Protea colours. This support not only aids Kolver in achieving his ambitions but also exemplifies the spirit of the community.
In the midst of global challenges, from climate change to social inequality, there arises a need for collective action. It’s about individuals and organizations uniting their efforts to tackle the world’s most pressing issues. One such movement making waves in this realm is Catalyst 2030.
Catalyst 2030 is not just a movement; it’s a commitment, a call to action for people and the planet. Launched at the World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2020, this global initiative brings together a diverse array of actors—social entrepreneurs, innovators, communities, governments, businesses, funders, and more—united by a common goal: achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Founded in 2019 by a group of social entrepreneurs, Catalyst 2030 counts among its ecosystem partners prominent organizations such as Ashoka, Echoing Green, the Schwab Foundation of the World Economic Forum, and the Skoll Foundation. This diverse coalition is backed by the One Family Foundation, which continues to support the movement as its fiscal sponsor. Panorama Global facilitated and managed funding from 2021 to 2023.
At the heart of Catalyst 2030 is the belief in inclusive, locally-led collaborations. This movement transcends borders and cultures, forging connections and partnerships worldwide. By harnessing the collective power of individuals and organizations, Catalyst 2030 seeks to implement bold new strategies and sustainable solutions for a brighter future.
As part of its ongoing efforts, Catalyst 2030 is hosting an interactive workshop titled “Is Crowdfunding a Funding Solution for You?” This session aims to explore crowdfunding as a viable funding mechanism for sustainable development initiatives. Featuring insights from the founders of two leading funding platforms in Africa—BackaBuddy NPC and MChanga—along with a champion who successfully crowdfunded a cause in Malawi, this workshop promises to offer real-world shared learnings.
The workshop will be facilitated by Patrick Schofield, Co-Founder of BackaBuddy NPC, Kyai Mullei, Co-Founder of MChanga, Henly Kuwenda, Founder of the KingfisherSekanawo Initiative, and Sardiqah Bowers, Charities Campaign Manager at BackaBuddy NPC.
If you’re passionate about driving positive change and interested in exploring crowdfunding as a funding solution, don’t miss this opportunity to engage with Catalyst 2030. Register for the workshop here and be part of a global movement committed to building a better world.
To learn more about Catalyst 2030 and stay updated on future events and initiatives, visit the Catalyst 2030 website and follow them on Facebook.
Join us in shaping the future we want to see—one where collaboration and innovation drive sustainable development and create lasting impact for generations to come. Together, we can be the catalysts for change.
