Celebrating National Disability Month with the voices of three remarkable young people who remind us that courage isn’t about what holds us back it’s about how we move forward.

“It’s not our disabilities, but our abilities that count.” — 

 Nashe, Gerhardus, and Zaarah share the journeys of their year so far and how, through our campaign with 

, they’ve been able to achieve more than they ever imagined.

This year has been filled with excitement and self-discovery for 

. In her first term, she played netball and athletics and even tried long jump — eager to challenge herself to do something new. Her dedication paid off when she made her school’s first netball team, with the tour being one of her best memories. Away from the field, she’s happiest on the ice, teaching herself to skate and growing more confident each day.

“This year my goal was learning, asking people to teach me and being more social with others. I’m proud to say I’ve achieved my goals and I can’t wait to start high school and see what new adventures await me.”

 has spent his year focused on sport, determination, and chasing his dreams. Training with his school’s tennis A team is another step toward becoming a professional player. At his school’s 

 event, he shone in track and field, and outside of sport, he enjoys chess and keeps challenging himself to improve.

“Although I have a disability, I don’t feel like it,” he says. “I’m grateful for the chance to be a normal teenager and do everything with my friends and family.”

Starting Grade 8 was both exciting and nerve-wracking for 

, but she’s made new friends and earned third place in her class, an achievement that gave her a boost of confidence. She’s also found freedom in the water, discovering a love for surfing something she never thought she’d do.

“Swimming is my therapy. It makes me feel free.”

Her new prosthetic leg, with its cool, bouncy foot, has given her even more confidence.

All three inspiring stories prove that when children are given access, inclusion, and mobility, possibility has no limits.

 is proud to help children move forward with courage, confidence, and hope.

Empowering Possibility

At Vumuthando Primary School near Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, a remarkable transformation has taken place — one that goes far beyond construction. This change is about respect, safety, and giving every child a secure environment in which to learn and thrive.

For years, learners and teachers faced hazardous pit toilets — outdated facilities that posed serious health risks and often forced children to avoid using them, losing valuable learning time.

’s Toilet Campaign is so vital. Across South Africa, this initiative is replacing unsafe toilets with modern, sustainable sanitation facilities designed to protect wellbeing, support inclusivity, and foster equality. For Vumuthando Primary, this campaign — supported by The Star Foundation, 

 through the Fortune Frenzy has been life changing.

Together, generous listeners helped raise an incredible R859,500 — enough to replace the school’s toilets with clean, safe, and sustainable facilities for 259 learners and 15 staff members. Each unit features waterless and low-flush systems, designed for ease of use and environmental sustainability. Regular inspections and septic tank servicing are included for up to five years, ensuring lasting benefits for the school community.

Today, the new toilets are in use, giving learners the comfort and confidence to focus on their education without fear or discomfort. The facilities also promote gender equality and inclusivity, offering safe access for all learners — girls and children with disabilities alike.

Breadline Africa’s Toilet Campaign is about more than construction it’s about restoring dignity, protecting health, and creating environments where children can thrive. Across South Africa, the organisation continues its mission to ensure more schools receive the same care, giving every child a safe and dignified space to learn.

The official handover at Vumuthando Primary took place on 21 October, marking a brighter chapter for the school and demonstrating the impact of collective action.

Building Dignity

Dané’s Year So Far: Big Adventures and New Milestones 💖

“Courage, curiosity, and laughter — Dané, one of our youngest Jumping Kids beneficiaries, has already filled this year with exciting firsts and proud moments.”

“Her biggest step so far? Moving from her cot into her very own big-girl bed!”

And the milestones just kept coming, from dancing, running, climbing, and even kicking a ball with her prosthetic leg. She also completed her very first competition, proudly receiving a certificate to celebrate the achievement.

At home, Dané is surrounded by love, laughter, and plenty of fun. She’s learning to count, speak in full sentences, and play with her dolls, while her best friend Jacky the dog is never far from her side. Mealtimes are full of favourites like “slap chips” sprinkled with Aromat, playful veggie-eating games with Grandma, and even helping out in the kitchen (with the occasional broken plate!).

“People often tell her she’s brave and that her prosthetic leg is pretty cool too.”

Through it all, Jumping Kids has been by her side, supporting her every step of the way, from practical help that keeps her moving to the encouragement that cheers her on. Dané’s courage shows up in the sweetest ways. She’s even managed to get over her fear of visits with Oom Johan at Jumping Kids, something that once seemed scary but now feels like just another fun step along the way.

“It's been a year full of laughter, learning, and big adventures, with so many exciting moments, we’re loving every step of her journey so far!”

Dané’s Year So Far

 — three powerful weeks of big prizes, with entrants playing for a purpose. With R1 Million in cash up for grabs every weekday, this wasn’t just about winning — it was about making a life-changing difference.

In partnership with The Star Foundation, all proceeds from Big September are going directly towards surgical equipment and consumables for 

at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital — the largest hospital in the Southern Hemisphere, and a lifeline for thousands of children in need of life-saving operations.

Every month, a small team of just five paediatric surgeons performs over 200 operations — from delicate neonatal procedures to urgent life-saving interventions. These surgeries simply cannot happen without specialised equipment and consumables which, in many cases, are not available at public hospitals.

This is where Big September stepped in. Thanks to your support, the funds raised will contribute to

, touching the lives of hundreds of young children who now have hope for a brighter, healthier future.

💛 Big September wasn’t just about winning cash — it was about providing world-class medical care and saving little lives.

Saving Little Lives

 brought listeners three electrifying weeks of Woza Win — with R1 million in cash up for grabs every weekday. But beyond the thrill of winning, this campaign had a powerful purpose: helping communities in KwaZulu-Natal gain access to safe, drinkable water.

At the heart of this campaign was a mission to support 

system a gravity-powered, electricity-free solution that removes 99.9999% of harmful bacteria and provides 10,000 litres of clean water per unit. For families, who’ve had to rely on unsafe sources, these filters mean relief, health, and dignity where it’s needed most.

Woza Win wasn’t just about winning it was about making a difference.
Together, we raised R879 000, enough to provide 1,758 PureFlow Amanzi bucket filters. That means 1,758 households over 7,000 people will now have access to safe, clean drinking water for up to two years. No more relying on contaminated sources or facing waterborne illness. Just healthier lives, restored dignity, and lasting impact one drop at a time.

But this journey doesn’t end here. You can keep the ripple effect going:

Here's how you can continue supporting this life-changing work:
• Visit 


• Follow Gift of the Givers on social media
• Share the story because awareness builds action

Thank you for being part of this powerful movement for change. With your help, we’ve turned each win into a powerful story of hope while building a future where no family in South Africa lives without access to clean, safe water.

Clean Water. Real Impact.

Celebrating a New Chapter with Little Angels in Hout Bay

On 14 August 2025, we had the privilege of hosting a very special event! While we have been collaborating since April, the occasion marked the official launch of the transformative partnership between 

 — a remarkable community-based organisation in Hout Bay, Western Cape.

The event was a heartwarming celebration of the impact that has already been achieved, showcasing the power of collaboration in action. With close to 50 people in attendance, we were honoured to welcome several dignitaries, including the Deputy 

, members of the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, the US Consul General, members of the Boards of The Star Foundation and 1609 Group, and representatives from the local community such as elders, school principals, and religious leaders. Together, we unveiled a commemorative plaque, marking the official inception of a long-term partnership rooted in dignity, care, and a joint commitment to community upliftment.

"With the generous support of 1609 Group, the journey we have embarked on with the Star Foundation has already been one which has surpassed my wildest dreams. I am finally seeing my vision become a reality!"- Liezl Mathews, Founder and Principal, Little Angels Educare Centre

After hearing Liezl Mathews's touching story of how Little Angels came to be, and how it has stood strong in the face of much adversity over the last 15 years, guests enjoyed a guided tour of the Little Angels centre, witnessing first-hand the incredible work being done every day. From the buzzing kitchen — where up to 1,000 meals are prepared each day — to the nurturing classrooms and safe spaces for vulnerable women and children, the dedication of the staff who are key to its success was felt in every corner.

"We are incredibly proud to have played a part in telling this inspiring story. It has been such a joy to witness the growing impact of Little Angels over the last few months. As we continue to support Liezl and her team in operating at full capacity, we look to the future with great anticipation."- Alexandra Stylianou, 1609 Group

Before enjoying a time of rich discussion over snacks and refreshments, guests were given the opportunity to immerse themselves in the classrooms. Interacting with the children and handing out special goodie bags, a renewed sense of hope was pulpable. As the day came to an end, all guests left knowing this was just the beginning of a new chapter.

As a lifeline for the Hangberg and Imizama Yethu communities, Little Angels continues to provide vital services for children, the youth, women, survivors of abuse, and many more. Inspired by this shining example of community resilience, and powered by the generous funding of 1609 Group, we are building a future where no one is left behind.

Little Angels: A New Chapter

 — 3 weeks of unadulterated adrenaline with R1 million in cash up for grabs every weekday. But beyond all the excitement and unforgettable wins, this campaign had a powerful purpose: helping restore dignity through improved school sanitation.

At the heart of Fortune Frenzy was a mission to support 

's work to replace unsafe pit toilets with clean, safe, and sustainable toilet facilities at schools in KwaZulu-Natal.

Fortune Frenzy wasn’t just about winning big — it was about playing for a purpose. Your participation helped take real steps toward creating school environments where children can feel safe, focus on their studies, and reach their full potential in a healthy and dignified learning environment.

With your help, we raised a staggering R859,500 for Breadline Africa's toilet campaign- enough to eradicate pit toilets and provide safer, more hygienic sanitation solutions for all learners at Vumuthando Primary School near Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal. At The Star Foundation, we’re proud to have helped raise awareness and funding for this vital cause.

Follow and share their mission on social media

Spread the word – because awareness builds impact!

Thank you for being part of a movement for change that went far beyond prizes. With your help, we’ve made meaningful impact a reality with a significant leap closer to eradicating pit toilets and transforming the school experience into one which is safe dignified and empowering for every learner.

Restoring Dignity

 has ended – and it was nothing short of extraordinary. Over three weeks, the competition brought thrilling wins to LottoStar players while making a meaningful difference through Good Morning Angels (GMA).

 was raised for GMA – Jacaranda FM’s weekly charity initiative hosted by Martin Bester every Wednesday morning.

The funds raised will go toward uplifting South Africans in need, continuing the mission of bringing light to the lives of those facing hardship.

As part of the funds raised through the Fortune Frenzy competition, 

 was donated toward the purchase of a cutting-edge laser machine for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital. This vital piece of equipment will be used to treat young burn patients suffering from severe injuries – offering healing, relief, and a renewed chance at recovery.

The remaining funds will go towards supporting other meaningful causes through GMA continuing to bring help and hope where it’s needed most.

Fortune Frenzy proved that when entertainment meets purpose, lives can truly be changed.

The Star Foundation is proud to be part of initiatives that drive impact and share in the joy of changing lives – one win and one act of kindness, at a time.

Keep tuned to Jacaranda FM, follow The Star Foundation and LottoStar to see how more of the funds raised continue to make a real impact across South Africa.

Winnings with Purpose

Every drop counts. Every donation matters. At The Star Foundation, we’ve seen at firsthand how a simple act of generosity can change lives.

Since June 2023, we’ve partnered with the 

South African National Blood Service (SANBS)

 to host blood donation days at the Conservatory Building in Rosebank — and the response has been overwhelming!

Bi-monthly, our office becomes a beacon of hope, thanks to the incredible support of donors from the Conservatory Building. Through their generosity, we have collected 173 donations so far, saving 519 lives. That’s 519 people — mothers, fathers, children, and friends who have been given a second chance at life because of the selfless acts of our donors.

Did you know that a single donation can save up to three lives? It’s a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can create life-changing impacts. By dedicating just 30 minutes of your day, you could be the reason someone gets to celebrate another birthday, overcome a medical emergency, or win their fight against illness.

"The need for blood is constant, which is why our bi-monthly blood drives are so important. These drives help maintain a steady blood supply ensuring it’s available exactly when and where it’s needed most”.

Together we can continue to save lives, one donor at a time!

Saving Lives, One Drop at a time

53 surgeries. 4 months. Real impact. Groote Schuur Hospital’s Emergency Surgery Project is accelerating trauma care.