Romario Valentine, a 12-year-old environmental enthusiast and 2022 BirdLife SA Owlet laureate from Umhlanga, Durban, is making waves with his extraordinary dedication to protecting the planet.
The young ornithophile has not only secured the title of the youngest Ambassador for Ocean Sole but has also represented South Africa at a United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.
Pictured above: Romario holding his Saving Marion Island’s Seabirds Certificate of Appreciation
Romario’s environmental journey began at the age of 6, and since then, he has actively participated in numerous conservation projects, beach clean-ups, and tree-planting initiatives. Renowned globally for his efforts, Romario’s passion led him to become an ambassador for Ocean Sole, a Kenyan company specializing in recycling flip-flops that wash ashore.
Having appeared on prestigious platforms such as 50/50, National Geographic Kids, and Global Citizen, Romario has raised over R76,000 for environmental causes on the crowdfunding platform BackaBuddy since the age of 8.
His diverse initiatives include over 250 beach cleans and the planting or sponsorship of over 455 trees in 31 countries worldwide.
“At BackaBuddy, over the last four years, we’ve been inspired by Romario Valentine’s unwavering commitment to environmental conservation. His passion, coupled with the unwavering support from his generous donors, has created a powerful force for positive change. Together, they’ve not only raised funds but have become integral contributors to the broader preservation of our planet. Romario proves that you are never too young to make a difference” – says Monique Weich, Donor coordinator at BackaBuddy
In September 2022, Romario released his book, ‘Protect our Planet – Take Action with Romario’, aimed at inspiring the next generation of nature lovers. The book covers essential environmental topics, including recycling, reforestation, pollution solutions, and climate change.
Pictured above: Romario smiling proudly with his self published book, Protect Our Planet
Christmas for the Birds
As the festive season draws near, Romario has relaunched his campaign in aid of BirdLife South Africa’s Mouse-free Marion Project, dedicated to safeguarding the vital seabirds, including albatrosses and petrels, on Marion Island, a sub-Antarctic location southeast of Cape Town in the Southern Indian Ocean.
BirdLife South Africa is currently on a mission to eliminate rodents that pose a significant threat to bird species on Marion Island—an essential part of the marine ecosystem.
The albatross, wandering, sooty, grey-headed, and petrel populations are rapidly declining due to the invasive mice introduced by 19th-century sealers and whalers. These rodents are now preying on seabird chicks, hindering their journey to adulthood. The adult birds face additional challenges from the mice, coupled with the impacts of climate change and human activities. The severity of the infestation has left the adult birds defenceless against these predators.
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Last year, Romario’s Christmas campaign successfully sponsored 20 hectares on Marion Island. This year, he is determined to persist in his conservation efforts by raising R20 000 to sponsor an additional 20 hectares. Each R1,000 raised through his BackaBuddy campaign will contribute to sponsoring a hectare, ultimately contributing to the preservation of the 30,000-hectare Marion Island.
Romario encourages everyone to be part of this environmental legacy, stating, “When we take care of Nature, we take care of ourselves.” The campaign page will remain open until the end of January 2024.
Follow Romario on Twitter for updates: ArtistRomario
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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.
In the heart of Devon Valley, Stellenbosch, The Little Givers Creche and Kindergarten is making an indelible impact on the lives of 21 underprivileged children, providing hope in the face of poverty and overcrowded living conditions.
Image above:Captivated young minds at Little Givers immersed in an engaging and enriching lesson
Dedicated to offering essential education and socialization opportunities, the Little Givers Creche serves as a safe haven for these children, countering the challenges of poverty and cramped living conditions. Through a nurturing environment, Little Givers is committed to empowering these young minds and contributing to their holistic development.
Many parents in this community grapple with unemployment or seasonal employment, resulting in meager financial resources. The children endure cramped living conditions in small wooden wendy houses, with an average of 15 people per unit. This impedes their ability to study and thrive due to a lack of privacy and dedicated time for homework.
Recognizing these challenges, The Little Givers creche and kindergarten strive to provide a nurturing environment with stimulating learning opportunities and essential socialization experiences for the children.
However, sustaining the facility’s operation requires funding for salaries, maintenance, utilities, rent, food, and cleaning, totaling a monthly fee of R550 per child. Regrettably, this fee exceeds what the parents can afford, despite their commendable contribution of 32 percent of the costs in 2021.
Over the past three years, The Little Givers project has been fortunate to receive generous support from both corporate entities and individuals through donations and in-kind contributions. However, the current financial year presents a pressing shortfall of R70,000.
To bridge this gap, The Little Givers has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. Currently, over R17,000 has been raised towards their R70,000 target.
Image above:Dedicated efforts by the Little Givers creche to establish a secure and hygienic haven for the children
Although this is a commendable achievement, additional funding is urgently needed to sustain operations and cover ongoing expenses.
“Your consideration and support are instrumental in enabling us to make a tangible difference in the lives of these deserving children. Together, we can empower them with the education and opportunities they deserve,” says Little Givers.
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.
At just 17 years old, Kylie Rossouw from Kempton Park, Johannesburg, faced a formidable challenge that tested her strength and determination. Diagnosed with arteriovenous malformation (AVM) at the age of 15, a complex and life-threatening condition affecting the blood vessels in her brain, Kylie embarked on a courageous journey to reclaim her life.
Pictured: The first weekend Kylie spent at home from the rehab with her three legged rescue dog Lola
Given the gravity of her situation, Kylie had to make a life-altering decision at a tender age – undergo a risky operation with a 4% chance of complications or live a life marked by constraints and uncertainties. Opting for the former, Kylie’s resolve was put to the ultimate test during the surgery on March 7, 2022, when unforeseen complications led to an intraoperative hemorrhage, putting her in a two-day medically induced coma.
Pictured above: Kylie before her operation
The harrowing experience left Kylie’s parents, Angelique and Tertius, grappling with a torrent of emotions. Angelique shares, “How do you stay positive when your heart is broken into a million pieces? These and a million other questions were racing through our minds.”
Upon awakening, Kylie confronted the stark reality of losing feeling and mobility on her left side, challenging not only her physical well-being but also the realization that her dream of becoming a neurosurgeon might be in jeopardy.
Her mother reflects on the scariest moment, “It was the scariest moment of our lives, watching her get taken into theatre. When the doctors decided to wake Kylie and within an instant, our lives changed forever.”
Undeterred, Kylie’s resilience shone through as she embarked on an arduous road to recovery. Nearly three weeks in the hospital were followed by five weeks of intense therapy in a rehabilitation facility in Pretoria. Despite the setback, Kylie achieved a significant milestone, walking unassisted upon her discharge on April 29, 2022.
Pictured above: Kylie discharged from the rehab, showing her progress from being in a wheelchair to using a walking stick and walking on her own
Choosing to take a hiatus from school in 2022 to focus entirely on rehabilitation was a difficult decision for Kylie. However, her unwavering determination to excel academically persists. Despite challenges such as difficulty focusing and limited hand mobility, Kylie aims to pursue Neuropsychology after high school, adapting her aspirations to the new circumstances.
Kylie’s father expresses unwavering faith in her recovery, stating, “Nothing is impossible when she puts her mind to it. She will get better; she is my daughter. I will keep on pushing her to get better.”
Pictured: Kylie, her mom Angelique, father Tertius and brother Ryan
Yet, the journey is not without financial hurdles. Kylie’s family faces mounting medical expenses due to her medical aid provider’s reluctance to cover essential costs. To bridge this gap, the Rossouw family initiated a BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaignon April 19, 2022.
The campaign has thus far been instrumental in securing vital therapies, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, botox treatments, and essential medical expenses. Over R96,000 has been raised towards the R150,000 target, a testament to the generosity of family, friends, and a growing community of supporters.
Expressing gratitude, Kylie acknowledges, “Thank you to all the donors who donated to my BackaBuddy campaign. Your belief in me has given me renewed hope and motivation to keep pushing forward.”
Her parents emphasize that Kylie has always been exceptional, a few steps ahead of the average teen, taking responsibility seriously. They reflect, “Being a parent to Kylie is the greatest gift.”
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.
In the serene town of Ranzadale, Wellington, resides the Klopper family – a trio comprising 48-year-old dad, Bennie, 44-year-old mum, Nicolene, and their remarkable 14-year-old son, Ben. Life in the Klopper household may seem ordinary from the outside, but for this family, each day is a battle against an unrelenting adversary: cystic fibrosis.
Image above: 14-year-old brave soul Ben Klopper
Ben’s journey began with a diagnosis of Meconium ileus, a rare bowel obstruction that demanded immediate surgery following his birth, but the challenges didn’t stop there. Soon after, the family received another grim diagnosis – cystic fibrosis. This incurable genetic disorder relentlessly affects multiple organs, primarily the lungs. Thick mucus clogs Ben’s airways, turning each breath into a Herculean task, akin to inhaling through a straw. Their daily life revolves around nebulizing treatments, digesting hundreds of enzyme pills, and managing a multitude of medications. Hospitalizations, recurring infections, and missed school days have become part and parcel of Ben’s reality.
“Ben has a lot of ups and downs currently with his health. As parents, it’s not easy for us to go public with Ben’s health condition, but we also can not sit back and do nothing.” says Bennie.
Image above: Ben and his parents Bennie and Nicolene Klopper
This hurdle however, hasn’t stopped Ben from dreaming and believing. Currently enrolled at Huguenot High School, Ben possesses an entrepreneurial spirit that he is certain will pave the way for his future accomplishments. Driven by an unwavering determination, he is adamant about never working for a boss and firmly believes in his potential to achieve success. In addition to his pursuits, Ben has a passion for playing the guitar and enjoys hitting the gym when his schedule allows.
“This year was the year Ben was out of school the most and his health became a challenge but Ben has never let that deter him and get in the way of his vibrant mind which is constantly teeming with new ideas. He holds a strong belief in himself, and openly acknowledges the Lord Jesus as his Saviour. Animals hold a special place in his heart, and his two dogs are his greatest companions.” Bennie states.
Image above: Ben, Nicolene and Bennie with their dog Fritz
For Ben and his family cystic fibrosis is an ongoing battle, but now a ray of optimism has emerged in the form of Trikafta, a revolutionary drug developed by Vertex. Trikafta has the potential to enhance lung function, facilitate weight gain, and boost energy levels for those grappling with cystic fibrosis. Unfortunately, the exorbitant cost of this medication places it far beyond the Klopper family’s reach. Neither medical aid nor Vertex’s efforts to make the drug accessible in South Africa seem promising.
Thankfully, an alternative solution exists – Trixicar, a more affordable version of the drug manufactured by Gador in Argentina. Yet, there is a hurdle. Trixicar remains inaccessible within the borders of South Africa, leaving the Klopper family at a crossroads, helplessly witnessing Ben’s condition deteriorate with each passing day.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
To halt this heart-wrenching decline, the Klopper family urgently needs Trixicar. The price for this lifeline drug can range between R400,000 and R800,000, depending on dosage and exchange rates. It is at this critical juncture that the Kloppers are reaching out to their extended community, with a humble request for compassion.
The Klopper family has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy with a target of R400 000.00 of which they have managed to raise just over R100 000 with the help of 122 donors. This campaign, launched by the Klopper family, shines as a guiding light of optimism for Ben, offering a channel for their extended network to rally behind this brave young youth.
Image above: Ben at the hospital getting treated
“We had to approach the world and ask for help funding Ben’s very expensive medication. I know there are very good people in this world who understand what we as parents go through, especially with Ben being our only child. I therefore from the bottom of my heart want to thank every good-hearted person who has helped us this far. Every anonymous person, who has donated, you know who you are, thank you so much. We are really grateful for every cent donated this far.” Bennie expresses.
Your contribution has the power to transform Ben’s life, offering him the possibility of a brighter, healthier future. The Klopper family is profoundly grateful for any support you can offer, as they stand together, fighting for Ben’s chance to beat cystic fibrosis and live a life full of promise and hope. Your kind heartedness serves as a source of hope and resilience for the Klopper family and, above all, for Ben. United, we have the power to create a profound, life-altering difference in their lives.
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.
CAPE TOWN – SOUTH AFRICA – A host of South African celebs have taken up the challenge to #StepItUp for children born with clubfoot. Kicking off Disability Awareness Month, which runs from 3 November to 3 December, Britain’s Got Talent finalist Musa Motha has co-choreographed a TikTok dance routine to the sound of an original amapiano track, “I Am Possible”, by legendary local producers Dino Moran, Bee Deejay, and DJ Schuster. Paralympic Games record holder Mpumelolo Mhlongo is also running with the cause, to amplify their message: South Africa, it’s time to #StepItUp.
Pictured above: STEPS FOUNDER, KAREN MOSS WITH MPUMELELO MHLONGO
Working together with local non-profit Steps Clubfoot Care, an organisation that works to improve the lives of children born with clubfoot, aims is to raise R1-million to support the treatment of 400 children born with clubfoot, and prevent disability, through a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy.
“Every year, an estimated 11 000 children are born with clubfoot in Southern Africa. With access to the right resources and medical care, this potentially disabling condition is entirely treatable. Our ambitious goal is to ensure that no child is left untreated, by helping families who would otherwise not have access to treatment. What better way to raise awareness for this cause, than through the universal power of dance?”says Karen Moss, who founded Steps in 2005, after the successful clubfoot treatment of her own son.
Motha, whose left leg was amputated due to cancer when he was 10 years old, and Mhlongo, who was born with amniotic band syndrome (ABS) and clubfoot, were among the first to join the #StepItUp movement.
“All children born with clubfoot deserve an opportunity to walk, run, and dance. The TikTok challenge is a celebration of everything that is possible with access to the right resources – and this can only be achieved if everyone gets involved. Whether you’re a dancer or not, I challenge you to step it up for children born with clubfoot,” says Mhlongo.
“I have accepted the #StepItUp challenge, because I believe that every child should have an opportunity to say ‘I am possible’ to themselves and the world – regardless of whether they are disabled or not. This campaign is an opportunity for everybody to make a difference in the life of a child born with clubfoot,” says Motha.
The song “I Am Possible” is available for download for just R10 – but supporters are welcome to make larger donations too, through STEPS’ crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy.
“The #StepItUp campaign is about sharing a universal message of hope and inclusion. We want to make a difference in the lives of as many children as possible. A major part of this is raising awareness, which is critical to addressing stigma and getting more children into treatment. This is why we are appealing to the broader public for support,” says Moss.
Pictured above: JOIN THE NOVEMBER #STEPITUP DANCE CHALLENGE
Steps is a South African-based non-profit organisation that works to improve the lives of children born with clubfoot, focusing on advocacy, patient-centred care, and supplying clubfoot braces. Clubfoot is the most common musculoskeletal birth defect globally, in which a baby is born with one or both feet twisted downwards and inwards, in a rigid position. If left untreated, children will not be able to wear shoes or walk normally, leading to a life of disability, pain, and isolation. Unlike many other birth defects, clubfoot can be treated.
To date, STEPS has helped over 18 000 children across Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland and Namibia) – with more than 4 000 currently in treatment at 38 specialist partner clinics. For more information, visit www.steps.org.za
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.
In a world often defined by chaos and uncertainty, Trinity Van Beeck, a 16-year-old teenager from Brackenfell, carries a heart brimming with empathy and a burning desire to make a difference.
Trinity, a dedicated student at Curro Durbanville High School, currently in Grade 10, and an active member of the Cape Town Junior City Council, is on a mission to bring about significant change in her community by providing ‘Blessing Bags’ to those who need them the most.
Pictured above: Trinity Van Beeck
Trinity’s story is not merely a tale of academic achievements and her passion for chess; it’s a narrative of compassion, empathy, and unwavering determination. She’s the driving force behind “Horizons of Hope,” a project dedicated to delivering essential hygiene kits to the homeless individuals of Cape Town.
In South Africa, the issue of homelessness has reached alarming proportions, leaving countless individuals and families without stable shelter. For them, access to basic hygiene products often remains an unattainable dream, exacerbating the challenges they face in their daily lives. Trinity recognized this crisis and took it upon herself to take action.
“Horizons of Hope” stands as Trinity’s response to the pressing issue of homelessness. She passionately expresses,
“It is no secret that homelessness in South Africa has reached unprecedented levels. Despite our country’s rich cultural diversity and vast economic potential, we are also confronted with the daunting challenge of homelessness. A substantial portion of our population grapples with the harsh realities of living without a stable shelter. For these individuals and their families, obtaining access to basic hygiene products often proves to be an impossible task, further intensifying the challenges that most of us can’t even begin to imagine. ‘Horizons of Hope’ is my response to this pressing issue and the dire need for support within the homeless community. Our mission is clear: To provide essential hygiene kits to the most vulnerable members of our society.”
Each Blessing Bag, with a cost ranging between R100 and R110, contains items like toothpaste, deodorant, toothbrushes, facecloths, feminine hygiene products, wet wipes, lotion, and soap. While these may seem like everyday items to many of us, they can make a world of difference to those who lack access to them.
To finance her “Horizons of Hope” campaign, Trinity initiated a crowdfunding effort on BackaBuddy with a goal of raising R11,000 to purchase 110 bags. She has made significant progress, having raised over R3400 already, thanks to the generosity of 10 donors.
Trinity’s journey toward making a difference commenced at an exceptionally young age. Her mother, Marisa Laas, lovingly recalls,
“At only 3 years old, Trinity asked me to make a list of things she needed to give to ‘the poor people,’ this included a car, purple paint for their houses, and toys for the children. She has always been a beautiful empathetic soul with a heart for those less fortunate than herself. I am so proud to be a bystander in her journey through life.”
Pictured above: Trinity and her mom, Marisa
Trinity’s compassionate spirit and unwavering determination are truly inspiring as she strives to bring about positive change in the lives of the homeless in her community.
At the age of 12, Trinity displayed her benevolence by raising over R40,000 on BackaBuddy to assist her 11-year-old chess prodigy friend, Amahle Zenzile, from Crossroads in Cape Town, to travel to Namibia and participate in the African Youth Chess Tournament.
Trinity’s mission serves as a poignant reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can ignite a wave of positive change. She is indeed a beacon of hope in her community.
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.
Pictured above: Romario holding his Saving Marion Island’s Seabirds Certificate of Appreciation
Pictured above: Romario smiling proudly with his self published book, Protect Our Planet
Pictured above: Challenge Participation Steps
Pictured above: STEPS Donation Information
