What started as a simple call to action on Youth Day turned into something extraordinary.
Jacaranda FM’s “Good Morning Angels” segment, hosted by Martin Bester, pulled off a truly heartwarming feat—raising a staggering R2.7 million to help children who’ve survived traumatic burn injuries. And it all unfolded live on air.
A Youth Day With a Purpose
On June 16, while South Africans reflected on the resilience and power of youth, Jacaranda FM focused its energy on an urgent need: helping child burn victims get access to life-changing treatment.
During the Breakfast with Martin Bester show, the team rallied listeners to help fund a replacement laser machine for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital in Johannesburg.
Why the Laser Machine Matters So Much
These aren’t your average hospital tools.
The specialised laser machine, worth around R1.4 million, is vital for treating burn scars in children—helping them regain movement, confidence, and a sense of normalcy.
The hospital’s previous machine broke down at the end of 2024 and couldn’t be fixed, leaving a critical gap in care.
Plastic surgeons rely on this type of equipment to ease physical pain and minimize the emotional scars that burns often leave behind.
It’s more than a machine—it’s hope in the form of technology.
The Avela Foundation: Hope in Action
The funds raised will be channelled through the Avela Foundation, an organisation inspired by a courageous young burn survivor named Avela.
The foundation is dedicated to helping kids across South Africa recover from life-altering injuries.
Thanks to this campaign, up to 40 children every month can now get the treatment they need to heal, inside and out.
Listeners Step Up in a Big Way
South Africans didn’t just listen—they gave.
Donations came flooding in, with the first R1.4 million goal reached just before 8 a.m.
And when the supplier of the laser machine offered a second machine at a discounted price of R1.3 million, the radio station raised the bar.
By the next morning, they had not only met the new goal but surpassed it.
Corporate Kindness Amplifies the Impact
Major donations added momentum.
LottoStar came through with a generous R697,000, helping the campaign cross its initial target early.
Meanwhile, the Machi Filotimo Cancer Project also pitched in—not just with funds but by delivering toys to young patients at the hospital, bringing joy beyond the treatment room.
Martin Bester’s Emotional Moment
“It’s hard to describe the emotion in the studio that morning,” said Martin Bester.
“Our listeners didn’t just show up—they showed up big.
This was about giving children their futures back.
That’s what radio can do—it connects people and inspires miracles.”
A Testament to South African Generosity
This moment wasn’t just about money—it was about unity.
It showed the true spirit of South Africans coming together for a cause that matters deeply.
It turned Youth Day into a celebration not only of the past but of the promise of the future.
With two laser machines now on the way, this initiative stands as a powerful reminder that community-led change is not only possible—it’s happening.