Day 2 of 16 Days for Youth and today we speak to Co-Founder Sher’Neil Savel from the 9 Miles Project. We asked our listeners to nominate organisations and individuals who are doing amazing work within their communities, and many people have nominated The 9 Miles Project.
This is what we received – “I would like to nominate the 9 miles project as a social initiative that is really doing amazing work with at-risk youth in their community, and beyond. I would like to nominate them for this year’s 16 Days for Youth initiative. This organisation is close to my heart, because I have gotten to know the mentors and mentees over the last few years and I have had the opportunity to really witness the fruit that has come from the consistent hard work put in by the 9 miles team. Their program teaches these kids so many life skills in innovative, but relatable ways. Their outlook is always strong and positive and I think that a lot of other organisations can learn from them, especially how to bring about positive change in a sustainable way. For this reason I would like heartFM to shine the light on 9 miles project to increase their support and in turn, the amazing impact that they have. They are making a difference EVERY.SINGLE.DAY”
Peninsular Beverages Western Cape once again have opened their hearts and have donated R5000 towards the 9 Miles Project. A HUGE and heartfelt thank you to them for supporting such an amazing organisation. We are truly grateful for your ongoing support to our 16 Days for Youth Initiative.
Have a listen to the interview here with Suga and Co-founder Sher’Neil
THIS IS THEIR STORY
The smell of smoke from open fires permeates the air…dogs bark, children cry and shout as they kick balls around on the dusty ground… laundry flaps in the wind, children curiously stare or run up to you in abandoned glee, music blares, people queue for water at communal taps and visit outdoor toilets…tin and wooden homes stand higgledy-piggledy like a maze, the South Easter blows across the sand dunes, people walk for miles to the shop for everyday conveniences, people go hungry, it’s a daily struggle…social ills are rife, illiteracy levels are sky high, and children have very few good examples to emulate.
But there is a sense of community… people support one another and there is an inherent joyous atmosphere despite all the hardship. This is the backdrop against which our children are growing up… these are the circumstances we are trying to help them rise above.
9Miles Project is a registered non-profit organisation that was founded in Cape Town in 2013. The project works with youth in coastal informal settlements and provides mentorship and support to the at-risk youth in the areas of Cape Town, Elands Bay, and St Francis Bay.
With Headquarters at Strandfontein Pavilion, Cape Town, the project is a haven and refuge for youth who have very few positive role models in their lives.
“Going the distance means no man is left behind, no child is left unloved and no community is left untouched” – Nigel Savel, Founder
https://9milesproject.org/our-story/
