For nearly two decades a remarkable group of women has been making waves along Overberg’s coastline, not just with their hiking boots, but with their unwavering commitment to community service and cancer awareness.
The Lighthouse 2 Lighthouse (L2L) Ladies Walk has become much more than an annual hiking event; it’s evolved into a powerful symbol of female solidarity, charitable giving and the transformative power of putting one foot in front of the other.
What started in 2006 as a heartfelt initiative to support cancer survivors and their families has blossomed into one of South Africa’s most impactful women-only charitable events. The vision was simple yet profound: combine the healing power of nature with the strength of community to create lasting change for those who needed it most.
The 100-km four-day journey from the historic Cape Agulhas Lighthouse – Africa’s southernmost point – to the Danger Point Lighthouse in Gansbaai, traces one of the world’s most breathtaking coastal routes. But for the hundreds of women who have laced up their hiking boots over the years, the real destination has always been something far greater than any lighthouse beacon.
The numbers tell an extraordinary story of impact. More than 20 walks have raised more than R8,5 million for 30-plus charities, transforming the L2L Ladies from a small group of determined hikers into a registered NPO that is a lifeline for numerous organisations across the Overstrand area.
“The route may have been refined over the years, but our core mission of camaraderie, fitness and charity has remained constant” is the reflection on the way this remarkable initiative has evolved. Organisations such as the Overstrand Hospice have been among the many beneficiaries who have felt the tangible impact of every kilometre walked and every rand raised.
As the 5-8 March walk approaches three deserving organisations set to benefit from the ladies’ extraordinary efforts: Hermanus Animal Welfare, Hermanus Senior Centre and Silwerjare-dienssentrum.
These beneficiaries represent the diverse ways the L2L Ladies continue to strengthen their community, from caring for vulnerable animals to supporting elderly residents and providing essential services to those in need.
Long-term partnerships have been crucial to the walk’s success, with Hermanus Toyota standing out as a sponsor that has supported the initiative from its very beginning. Owner Johan van Zyl reflects the spirit of community investment that makes the L2L Ladies Walk possible. Hermanus Toyota has supported L2L since 2006, which is key on its agenda.
“We would like to show the Hermanus community that Toyota is willing to support institutions in financial need,” Van Zyl said. “Not only do we support L2L, but schools and soup kitchens are also close to our hearts.
“But it is an honour to be part of L2L. As the ladies prepare for the main walk on 5-8 March we wish them strength and safe kilometres ahead.”
