The spirit of community and resilience was on full display at Muizenberg Beach on Saturday 9 May as the 9Miles Project hosted its second annual 100Wave Challenge, raising more than R280 000 to support vulnerable youth in underserved coastal communities.
Inspired by a global initiative that began in California, the challenge calls on participants to surf 100 waves in a single day while raising funds for youth development programmes.
This year’s event attracted surfers, volunteers, families and community organisations, all rallying behind a shared mission of creating safer and more supportive spaces for children and young people.
Community Impact
From sunrise to sunset, participants braved difficult ocean conditions with determination and enthusiasm.
But organisers say the event represented far more than a physical challenge.“Changing a child’s life cannot happen in isolation … it takes a village,” said Nigel Savel, founder of 9Miles Project.
“Real impact happens when communities come together and take collective action with a shared purpose to create safe spaces that also ignite opportunity. That is the heart behind the 100Wave Challenge, using recreation to unite people and build stronger, more connected communities.”
The beachfront was transformed into a lively community hub throughout the day.
While surfers tackled wave after wave in the cold Atlantic waters, supporters gathered on the grass areas where art activities, drumming circles and lawn games created an atmosphere of celebration and connection.
Environmental organisation Ocean Pledge also partnered with the event, leading beach clean-up activities and a sandcastle-building competition aimed at encouraging environmental awareness among children and families.
Surfing Hope
Children attending the event were further entertained by a special appearance from Gizmo, the popular Superbook character, made possible through a partnership with CBN Southern Africa.One of the biggest highlights of the day was the event surpassing its fundraising target.
Organisers initially hoped to raise R250 000, but by the end of the challenge, donations had reached an impressive R282 590.According to organisers, the funds will directly support 9Miles Project’s youth development programmes, including surf therapy, mentorship, literacy support, educational assistance, life-skills development and safe recreational spaces for children living in vulnerable communities.
Co-founder Sher’Neil Savel said the event reflected the importance of perseverance and collective responsibility.
“This year reminded us that progress is not made in perfect conditions,” she said. “It is made when people keep showing up, even when it’s tough, because someone else’s future depends on it.
”The success of the event was made possible through the efforts of volunteers, donors, sponsors and community partners who dedicated their time and resources to ensuring the day ran smoothly.Among the volunteers was Reinhardt Paulse, who assisted with event activities ranging from setting up to facilitating games and participating in the beach clean-up initiative.
Paulse, a musician and compliance officer who also breeds dogs and participates in long-distance running, said volunteering gave him a renewed sense of purpose.
“I was aware about 9Miles, but not that it’s an organisation actively doing community work on a daily basis,” he said.
Youth Support
“Helping kids and being involved in community provides a sense of purpose which one would not otherwise get when you’re stuck in an office. Seeing kids smile and just making even a small difference makes everything worthwhile.”
Paulse said he became involved after being invited by high school friend Pearle, who works for the organisation.“I would definitely jump on board again,” he said.
“The initiative brought together people from all walks of life and we had a common purpose.”
Founded in Cape Town in 2013 by Nigel and Sher’Neil Savel, 9Miles Project uses surfing as a tool to engage children and youth from marginalised coastal communities.
Beyond surfing, the organisation provides after-school programmes, food aid, mentorship, skills development and holistic support to young people and families in Cape Town, Elands Bay and St Francis Bay.
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