Gary Vogel, CEO of Hi-Tec, was more than just a hiker prepping for an adventure; he had a cause in mind. Introduced to the Be The Difference Foundation through Hi-Tec’s Corporate Social Investment program, he soon realized the potential for creating real-world impact. This was particularly evident during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, where he saw firsthand the powerful work the Foundation was doing to provide for those most affected.
Pictured above: Hi-Tec CEO, Gary Vogel
The Catalyst: A Conversation That Changed Everything
A chat with the first South African to summit K2 was a game-changer for Gary. This wasn’t about setting a personal best or a cool summit selfie. It was about channeling the energy and resources going into this expedition for a greater cause. When the opportunity to climb Kilimanjaro came, he was quick to say yes, fully backed by his family. He thought it would be a missed opportunity if all the effort didn’t translate into something more impactful for the community.
The Summit Experience: More Than Just a Climb
Gary’s climb was far from easy. Navigating through altitude sickness, he faced headaches that he likened to “the size of the Statue of Liberty.” One particularly challenging moment was at the ‘kissing rock,’ a precarious position on the ascent where a single misstep could be disastrous. It was then he realized Kilimanjaro was no “Mickey Mouse mountain.”
Pictured above: Mount Everest
Lasting Impact and Next Steps
“The struggle to go up makes the summit even more special,” he notes. With the fundraising goal met, Gary is optimistic. He believes it will set off a domino effect of positive change. Four bright girls will get to go to school, and when they graduate, they’re expected to pay it forward, creating a lasting, exponential impact.
Pictured above: Mount Everest sunset
How You Can Join the Journey and a Friendly Challenge to Fellow CEOs
Feeling inspired by Gary’s commitment? You too can dedicate your next hike, or any adventure, to Be The Difference Foundation. In doing so, you’re not just getting those boots muddy; you’re laying the groundwork for education and opportunities for future generations.
To the CEOs reading this: we know you’re already doing remarkable work. Here’s a friendly challenge to add a dash of fun and philanthropy to your leadership. Gary has shown that influence can extend beyond the boardroom and into communities in need. Why not use your role for additional good? Lead by example, make a commitment to raise funds, and let’s create an even more positive change together.
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.
Extensive areas of the Western Cape are currently grappling with the catastrophic aftermath of severe flooding, landslides, and rockfalls that began on September 16th and worsened over the long weekend spanning from Sunday, September 24th, to Monday, September 25th. These events have led to the complete closure of major routes leading into Cape Town.
The entire region has been thrust into turmoil as incessant rains wreaked havoc, overwhelming rivers, crippling infrastructure, causing power outages, and submerging homes.
Pictured above: Houses submerged in water due to the floods
Responding to the Crisis: Gift of the Givers Launches Crowdfunding Campaign
In the face of this humanitarian crisis, Gift of the Givers has sprung into action, launching a crowdfunding campaign on Backabuddy to raise R50,000 in aid of those affected by the Western Cape floods. The situation on the ground remains dire, with access challenges caused by washed-out roads, unstable bridges, rockfalls, and uprooted trees.
Communities in Botrivier, Caledon, Riviersonderend, Hermanus, De Doorns, Robertson, Ashton, Montague, and Ladysmith find themselves cut off from critical support. The disaster has left formal houses submerged, informal settlements washed away, vehicles displaced, and people’s possessions destroyed.
Ali Sablay from Gift of The Givers is on the ground:
Urgent Needs: A Call to Action
The needs are vast, and every contribution counts. Urgently required supplies include sandbags, bottled water, hot meals, fortified foods, mattresses, blankets, new clothing, hygiene packs, sanitary pads, and diapers. Following these immediate needs, the recovery effort will require building materials, food parcels, stationery, and uniforms.
Pictured above: The Gift of the Givers handing out parcels and blankets to those affected by the floods
How to Help
Individuals who wish to make a meaningful contribution to support those in distress are encouraged to donate through Backabuddy. As a token of appreciation for their generosity, donors will be eligible to receive a Section 18A tax-deductible certificate issued by Gift of the Givers.
The Western Cape community is facing a crisis of unprecedented proportions, and unity and support are critical at this time. Together, we can make a difference and help those affected rebuild 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.
Celebrity chef, cookbook author, and TV show host, Fatima Sydow (49) from Lansdowne, Cape Town, has bravely shared her cancer journey with her followers since her diagnosis with Soft Tissue Sarcoma in December 2020.
This journey has tested her strength and resilience, leading her through a challenging array of treatments and surgeries, each taking a toll on her physical and emotional well-being. Her path has been marked by moments of triumph and despair as she has continuously battled against the odds.
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
On August 18, 2023, realizing that she was unable to work and confronted with the weight of her battle, Fatima reached out to her followers for
Fatima with her oncology palliative nurse, Carly Rinquist and Kulthum Mukuddem Ismail, Head of the radiation department at Vincent Palotti.
This moment of vulnerability was met with overwhelming kindness, as more than 1,000 donors came together to raise over R720,000 towards her target of R750,000.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, Fatima can now focus on her treatment without the burden of work or financial worries.
These funds will provide crucial support by covering her fundamental requirements, such as medical treatment, at-home caregiving services, and the purchase of a hospital bed for her forthcoming discharge. Furthermore, they will assist in addressing ongoing day-to-day costs, including specialized dietary needs, weekly transportation to the hospital for treatment, and any other essentials that can significantly improve her overall comfort and quality of life.
The outpouring of support has deeply touched Fatima and her family, underscoring the transformative power of even the smallest acts of kindness and the resilience needed to conquer life’s challenges.
Fatima, in a heartfelt message posted on her YouTube channel on September 13, expressed her gratitude towards her donors who have contributed on BackaBuddy:
“The support I’ve received has shown me the humanity of our community and the love we have for each other, our culture, our people, our city, and our country. I am so grateful; you have carried me through this journey more than you realize. You’ve done so much. Thank you; I love you all.”
Fatima recently completed a series of radiation therapy sessions, with a focus on treating the cancer in her frontal lobe, the region associated with one’s personality, and her right forearm, the skilled hand she’s used for years to craft her famous dishes—5 sessions for the brain, and 10 sessions for the arm. While she’s currently on a 10-day break, her treatment is ongoing. In the next phase of her journey, she will be managing her condition with oral medication.
Fatima is deeply touched by the support she has received from kind donors
Fatima’s culinary journey began at a young age, and her popularity soared with her Facebook page, “Cape Malay Cooking with Fatima Sydow.” She later self-published her first book, “The Journey of Cape Malay Cooking with Fatima Sydow,” which opened doors to numerous opportunities, including a cooking show called “Kaap, Kerrie, and Koesisters” and additional published works.
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.
Crossroads, Cape Town – In a heartwarming tale of talent, determination, and community support, 12-year-old chess prodigy Imkhitha Joya, hailing from Crossroads, Cape Town, has earned the prestigious opportunity to represent South Africa at the highly anticipated World Cadets Championship 2023, held in Egypt.
Scheduled to take place from October 14th to 27th, the championship is poised to be a defining moment in Imkhitha’s chess journey.
Imkhitha’s rise in the world of chess is nothing short of remarkable. With just three years of dedicated practice, her growth has been meteoric. Originating from Crossroads, a community facing economic challenges, Imkhitha’s determination has propelled her beyond obstacles to achieve her current standing. Her relentless commitment to the game, combined with an unwavering passion, has earned her the title of the top-ranked player in the Western Cape and the second-ranked player in all of South Africa, boasting an impressive chess rating of 1501.
To facilitate Imkhitha’s participation in the World Cadets Chess Championship 2023, her dedicated coach, Thando Hlakula, who has been with her every step of the way, has initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. So far, R2,200 has been raised toward their fundraising goal of R124,000.
“It still baffles me that a 12-year-old can reach this level of maturity. Imkhitha’s exceptional qualities extend beyond her chess skills. She exemplifies perseverance, discipline, analytical thinking, and the ability to handle pressure, making her a standout amongst her peers.” says Thando.
Imkhitha’s story is a testament to the power of passion, determination, and community support. As she gears up to compete on the African stage, her journey will undoubtedly inspire others to follow their dreams and overcome adversity.
To contribute to Imkhitha’s remarkable journey and help her make South Africa proud, consider supporting her campaign on BackaBuddy via this link: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/imkhitha-joya
Villeria, Pretoria — In an awe-inspiring journey that epitomizes adventure, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of a greater purpose, two extraordinary friends, Dr. Jean Cooper and Dr. De Witt Oosthuizen, are gearing up to traverse the rugged landscapes of Africa.
Pictured above:Dr. Jean Cooper and Dr. De Witt Oosthuizen
This daring motorcycle expedition, spanning three months and 20 countries, is not just a quest for thrill but a monumental effort to bring fresh water to rural South African villages. They have dubbed their journey “Expedition H2O: Back to Basics,” and it promises to be an unforgettable odyssey.
Dr. Jean Cooper, a seasoned management consultant and industrial psychologist, and Dr. De Witt Oosthuizen, a dedicated medical doctor, are the driving forces behind this remarkable endeavor. Both born in 1977, their paths crossed at the University of Pretoria’s Sonop Residence, forging a friendship based on shared dreams of adventure and a profound commitment to helping others.
For Dr. Cooper, this journey signifies a transition from mentoring top executives to pursuing a purpose larger than himself. “You have to start living and striving for something bigger than yourself at some point,” he affirms. His involvement in Direct Transact’s Ezenzeleni Water Project, a registered public benefit organization, set the stage for this life-changing expedition.
Pictured above: Dr. Jean Cooper and Dr. De Witt Oosthuizen
For Dr. Oosthuizen, whose medical qualifications include rural medicine, this expedition is a chance to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
Their journey commences this Saturday at 11:00 from Trax Moto KTM in Silver Lakes, Pretoria. Over the next three months, they will chart a course along the West Coast of Africa, ultimately reaching Madrid, Spain. Their chosen route, based on advice from seasoned truck drivers, promises safer roads through Africa.
What makes this expedition even more heartwarming is their commitment to installing 100 rainwater tanks in rural Free State communities that lack easy access to fresh water. These tanks will be a lifeline, ensuring a sustainable source of clean water for these deserving villages.
Pictured above: Community member in rural Free State.
Their crowdfunding campaign in support of Direct Transact’s Ezenzeleni Water Project has already raised over R356 000 The organization, rooted in a deep moral duty to make a meaningful difference in the world, embodies the essence of their mission.
This dynamic duo, armed with two Husqvarna off-road motorcycles, will encounter diverse terrains and climates, from dusty trails to high humidity near the equator. Their journey through countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Cameroon will test their resolve and resilience. Yet, they are unwavering in their commitment to find a new rhythm for their lives and inspire us all to do the same. As Dr. Oosthuizen reflects, “We’re tackling the journey to find a new rhythm for our lives. That also means knowing what to take and what to leave in many respects.”
Pictured above: Dr. De Witt Oosthuizen
This remarkable journey is not just about covering kilometers; it’s about bridging the gap between privilege and need, inspiring others to embark on their own quests for a better world. Jean and De Witt’s adventure is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for compassion, resilience, and the pursuit of a greater purpose.
Sharney Blackway, a 28-year-old TikTok content creator from Boksburg, Johannesburg, is writing a compelling story—one of courage, hope, and resilience. Recently diagnosed with Stage 2 triple negative breast cancer, Sharney has not only faced her health challenges head-on but has also initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to secure funds for her essential treatment.
Pictured above: Sharney Blackway
Sharney’s narrative commenced as an ordinary one. She and her high school sweetheart, Rowayne, were joyfully raising their charming three-year-old daughter. However, life took an unexpected twist when Sharney received her life-altering cancer diagnosis.
Before her diagnosis, Sharney maintained a full-time job, earning minimum wage, while simultaneously pursuing a secondary career as a TikTok content creator. On TikTok, she documented her inspirational weight loss journey, steadily amassing an impressive following of nearly 50,000 supporters by the time her diagnosis arrived.
In Sharney’s own words, “I hoped that by taking control of my health, I would be able to prevent my young daughter from losing me prematurely, or at the very least, be a role model.”
Sharney’s battle began with seemingly minor discomfort—a tenderness in her left breast. Initially dismissing it as inconsequential, her doctor assured her it was a fibroadenoma and prescribed pain medication. However, the pain persisted, disrupting her daily life and work.
Pictured above: Sharney Blackway
Undeterred, Sharney persevered over several months, enduring numerous medical examinations. In January 2023, she received the devastating news: “Mrs. Blackway, you have cancer.” Sharney recalled the emotional moment: “My husband and I sobbed. We couldn’t believe it. I was told I needed two immediate surgical operations the next day—a chemo pod insertion and another biopsy. I was numb, and this was not part of our financial or emotional plans, especially since my daughter had just started school.”
Sharney’s world was turned upside down, and she not only faced the emotional and physical toll of her diagnosis but also grappled with mounting medical bills.
“I was entirely dependent on overtime,” Sharney explained, “and after the diagnosis, I couldn’t meet some of my bills. My inability to commit to content creation and hairstyling due to surgery and chemo further exacerbated our financial woes. Not only did I battle cancer, but I also lost the additional income that kept us afloat.”
Pictured above: Sharney, with her husband Rowayne, and their daughter.
Despite medical insurance covering a portion of her expenses, growing administrative fees and her husband’s need to accompany her to doctor’s appointments strained their finances further.
In response to these challenges, Sharney launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, aiming to raise R100,000 to cover medical expenses and provide support to her family during this trying period. The campaign has garnered remarkable support, with ten donors contributing over R4,800 since its launch.
Sharney explained, “I use the BackaBuddy funds for basic necessities, including property bills. Although my medical insurance covers most cancer-related expenses, administrative fees have piled up to nearly 10,000. My husband has had to reduce his work hours to support me and attend medical appointments.”
Sharney emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “My family is an incredible source of strength, but we’re a middle-class family, and these medical bills and basic needs are beyond our means. This page aims to raise awareness about misdiagnosis while seeking donations for medical expenses. While my insurance covers 100% of specialist fees, specialists charge 300%, which is 200% above coverage. Our medical expenses continue to rise daily, and any financial support is immensely appreciated as I focus on completing chemo sessions and additional treatment.”
Sharney completed her chemotherapy on August 7, 2023, and has been placed on temporary disability, facing a reduction in income, which her family heavily depends on. She is awaiting a surgery date for a double mastectomy, scheduled for this week, followed by six weeks of radiation (25 sessions). Her husband will also face salary cuts as he won’t be able to work overtime due to accompanying her.
Pictured above: Sharney Blackway on her last day of chemo
In addition to her crowdfunding efforts, Sharney has turned to TikTok, where she initially began her journey, to raise awareness about cancer among young people and underscore the importance of early detection. With her TikTok following now surpassing 111 000, she aspires to use her platform for good, inspire others to persevere, and share the power of faith through her journey.
Sharney Blackway’s story is one of bravery, determination, and the incredible support of a united community. As she continues to confront cancer, she remains a symbol of hope, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we can come together to support those in need.
Pictured above: Hi-Tec CEO, Gary Vogel
Pictured above: Mount Everest
Pictured above: Mount Everest sunset
