The van was packed, surfboards secured, and hearts full of both nerves and anticipation.
For 13 young people and facilitators from 9Miles Project, this was more than just a road trip to a surf competition.
It was a journey toward possibility – far beyond the physical distance travelled.
Their destination? The world-renowned surf capital of Jeffreys Bay for the Corona Cero Open J-Bay.
Their reality? Nine days of discovery, connection, courage – and moments they’ll never forget.
9Miles Project is a non-profit organisation that was founded in Cape Town in 2013 by Nigel and Sher’Neil Savel.
Using surfing as a drawcard, 9Miles provides safe spaces and structured after-school programmes for impoverished and vulnerable children in marginalised coastal communities, and offers food aid, literacy and academic support, mentorship, job creation, skills development, and holistic support to at-risk youth and their communities in the areas of Cape Town, Elands Bay, and St Francis Bay.
Danielle Paulsen, Programmes Manager at 9Miles Project, said, “For many of our kids, this was the first time they’d ever left Cape Town.”
“Some had never seen waves that size, let alone watched their surf heroes ride them in person. You could almost see their worlds expanding with every moment.”
Each day brought something new: jumping castles and canal cruises, Spanish lessons by firelight, powerful devotions under the stars, spontaneous dance battles, and plenty of time in the surf at Boneyards.
The group even earned a feature in Zigzag Magazine after being captured in their element by local surf photographer Mikey Venter.
But beyond the activity, it was the shift that mattered most.
“We watched a boy arrive shy and withdrawn, unsure if he belonged,” shared mentor Shanna-Leigh Harris.
“By the end of the trip, he was the first one in the water every day, grinning from ear to ear. That’s what this work is about – unlocking freedom and reminding them of their worth.”
Jeffreys Bay became a canvas for self-discovery.
A defining space where these young changemakers weren’t just visitors – they were leaders, dreamers, and voices in their own stories.
Nigel Savel, Founder of 9Miles Project, said, “These moments help our youth see themselves differently.”
“They realise their value. That their dreams are valid. That they’re allowed to take up space in places they never thought they belonged.”
The trip, like many of 9Miles’ youth development initiatives, was only possible thanks to a generous network of donors, sponsors, and supporters who believe in real, lasting impact.
Youth mentor Dan Lutumbu, said, “You didn’t just help fund transport or meals, you made space for healing. You helped change the way a young person sees the world – and themselves.”
As they return home to share what they’ve learned, one thing is clear: this was more than a surf trip. It was a seed planted. A perspective shifted. A chapter of hope written into each of their stories.
To support future youth journeys like this, or to become a donor, email info@9milesproject.org or contact 082 997 8754.
