A camp site.
Picture for illustration purposes. Credit: Pixabay

JEFFREYS BAY – During the school holidays, the United Christian Student Association (VCSV) hosted an inspiring high school camp at their campsite in Jeffreys Bay.

Doreen Pieters standing next to Oluthando Nkosinkulu who has an amputated leg and Riaan Miles who has a prosthetic leg.
From left are Doreen Pieters, Oluthando Nkosinkulu and Riaan Miles. Credit: Supplied

Learners from as far as Ugie, Maletswai (previously Aliwal North), Komani, and surrounding schools from Gqeberha and Kariega came together for a week of faith, growth and fellowship.

The theme of the camp, “Jesus is the Anchor of My Soul,” was woven through every activity and gathering.

Learners not only made new friends but also experienced deep spiritual moments that changed their lives forever.

One of the most moving moments of the camp came when Oluthando Nkosinkulu (Olu), a Grade R learner from Hankey, was invited as a guest speaker to share his story.

Olu was first noticed at a sports day where he played in a full rugby team with only one leg and even scored a few tries.

Videos of his determination quickly spread across social media, turning him into a symbol of hope and inspiration.

Doreen Pieters, a well-known motivational speaker, shared how her path crossed with this courageous young boy.

She is the driving force behind the “Back a Buddy” project, which raises funds for Olu’s prosthetic leg as he grows older.

Pieters’ own life story is equally inspiring.

She is a former foster child who overcame great challenges but now uses her voice to uplift and support foster children and families in the Kouga region.

With the help of the community, she works alongside social workers and local businesses to provide care, guidance, and hope.

This is a living testimony that your past does not have to define your future.

Another highlight of the camp was when Riaan Miles, Managing Director and Strategic Consultant at IT Design, shared his personal testimony.

Miles lost his leg at a young age during a rugby match, yet through the storms of pain and loss, he remained anchored in Jesus.

Today, he is not only a successful entrepreneur and life coach but also a national para table tennis champion, having won a gold medal in the TT8 division at the 2023 championships.

Miles’ testimony deeply touched Olu.

In true camp spirit, the young boy immediately showed his courage.

He took off his prosthetic leg and demonstrated how he could play rugby and soccer without it.

His actions reminded every learner and adult present that where there’s a will, there’s a way, and above all, that we should be grateful if we still have two legs to walk on.

The VCSV camp proved to everyone present that faith, perseverance and community are the strongest anchors in life’s storms.

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