In a heartfelt celebration of hope, determination, and community unity, the recent event at Stepping Stones Children Centre brought to life the transformative power of children and youth-led initiatives combined with community collaboration.
The occasion marked the inspiring culmination of the annual Heart FM 16 Days for Youth Project alongside the community-driven ‘My JiVE, My Hood’ initiative – two shining examples of how together, brands and their communities can ignite real, lasting change.
Rochelle Fleshman, Operations Manager and Nadine Gelderbloem, Principal of Stepping Stones Children Centre-both in leadership roles-welcomed guests with warmth and genuine optimism.
- They shared the centre’s proud 49-year history as a non-profit dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education, with a particular focus on supporting vulnerable children. While school fees are charged, the centre offers support and sliding-scale fees for families with lower incomes. “At Stepping Stones, inclusivity is at our core, no child is ever left behind,” said Rochelle. Their passion for nurturing young lives and fostering a safe, loving environment echoed throughout the event.
A highlight of the morning was the inspiring speech done by Niyaaz Hendricks, Brand Marketing and Trade Execution Manager of JiVE. Rooted deeply in the Western Cape, the brand champions community development by empowering youth and backing local initiatives through ongoing sponsorships.
Their continuous support has made a tangible difference, providing assistance to nonprofits and community projects. One notable partnership is with the SK Walmers Rugby Club, a beacon of youth excellence, recently celebrating Hasheem Peads’ selection to the Springbok squad after his triumphant World Cup win with the Baby Boks.
The My JiVE My Hood initiative, launched to boost beverage sales and uplift communities, featured a pioneering two-phase competition. Consumers first shared bold ideas on how they would improve their neighbourhoods if they were “mayor of their hood.” Six finalists, chosen for their potential impact and diverse backgrounds, became “JiVE Mayors,” campaigning passionately for community votes.
Among the winners was Khanyisa Zali, who, despite having no prior affiliation with the NGO, sought out an opportunity to participate and successfully secured a significant R100,000 in support for the centre. Runners-up such as the Langebaan Animal Centre, Butterfly House, Community Action Partnership, Dews of Quietness, and Bright Stars Safe Home each proudly received R10,000, fuelling their own community missions.
Heart FM and the 16 Days of Youth Project played an instrumental role in ensuring these stories of change reached a wide and diverse audience, amplifying the impact of youth-led initiatives across the community. The 16 Days of Youth Project is a powerful campaign dedicated to empowering young people by supporting their leadership, creativity, and commitment to positive social change over a focused period of engagement each year.
Adding to the event’s momentum, the JiVE Funny Golf Day generated an impressive R100,000, towards next years 16-days for youth project.
Niyaaz captured the spirit of the day perfectly: “JiVE’s commitment to empowering communities through meaningful partnerships and impactful campaigns is unwavering. Every step we take together strengthens the future for our youth.”
The event was made even more special with a guided tour of Stepping Stones Children Centre, led by Rochelle and Nadine. Guests witnessed firsthand the centre’s recent upgrades, facilities and safe, welcoming spaces that nurture children’s dreams.
Heart FM presenter Lunga Singama offered heartfelt thanks to JiVE for a decade of powerful partnership, stressing the importance of ongoing support for youth-led projects that foster sustainable change. “This is exactly the vision behind the 16 Days for Youth Project, and seeing such ongoing work is truly inspiring,” he reflected.
The morning was a glowing testament to the remarkable outcomes that arise when caring brands and dedicated communities unite.
This joyous occasion not only showcased the dynamic impact of brand and community collaboration in the Western Cape but reminded all that, together we hold the power to illuminate lives and uplift entire neighbourhoods.
For more information, please visit https://jive.co.za/ or call (086) 150 0111. Follow JiVE on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jivecooldrinks/, on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jivecooldrinks_/ and on Twitter https://twitter.com/JiveCooldrinks.
