Celebrating Youth, Healing Futures: Jacaranda FM’s Impactful Youth Day 2025

Jacaranda FM turned inspiration into action this past Youth Day, creating a truly unforgettable moment for South Africa. Through a powerful combination of compassion, mentorship, and community spirit, the station delivered not one, but two life-changing initiatives—raising R2.7 million for young burn survivors through its Good Morning Angels programme, and empowering the next generation of broadcasters through its #YouthDayTakeover.

Healing Scars, Restoring Hope

Driven by the urgent need to replace a critical laser machine at the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, Jacaranda FM’s Breakfast with Martin Bester show rallied its listeners around a singular mission: to help the Avela Foundation continue its vital work in healing the scars—both physical and emotional—left on young burn survivors.

When the specialised equipment used to treat burn scars broke down late in 2024, the foundation’s ability to provide high-quality care was severely affected. These laser machines, essential in reducing trauma-related scarring and restoring mobility, cost upwards of R1.4 million. The team initially set out to raise funds for just one.

But thanks to extraordinary listener generosity—and a crucial push from partners like LottoStar (R697,000) and the Machi Filotimo Cancer Project—the team exceeded all expectations. Donations surged past the initial target just before 8 a.m., and when a second machine was offered at a discounted price of R1.3 million, listeners rose to the occasion once again. By the next morning, R2.7 million had been raised—enough to purchase two new machines.

These machines would go on to help up to 40 children begin their healing journeys each month. For the Avela Foundation, which marked its 10th anniversary, the support was not just financial—it was a powerful statement of solidarity with South Africa’s most vulnerable youth.

“It wasn’t just about buying a machine,” said host Martin Bester, visibly moved. “It was about giving children their futures back. That’s what radio did—it connected people and inspired miracles.”

Mentoring Tomorrow’s Broadcasters

While donations poured in, youthful energy and ambition filled the studio. In tandem with its fundraising campaign, Jacaranda FM hosted the #YouthDayTakeover—a bold mentorship initiative aimed at equipping young talents with real-world broadcasting experience.

Five aspiring presenters—Joy Fakude, Faith Modise, Ricardo Genesis, Walter Ernst, and Karabo Peter—stepped into the shoes of seasoned professionals, taking over shows like Breakfast with Martin Bester, The Workzone, and The Drive with Rob & Roz. These young voices, drawn from community and campus radio, received live on-air mentoring, gaining hands-on exposure to everything from content production to audience engagement.

“We wanted to offer more than just a spotlight,” said Ravi Naidoo, Programming and Content Manager. “This was a training ground—an authentic opportunity to sharpen their craft and test their skills in a high-pressure, high-impact environment.”

From live reads and social media integration to real-time interaction with audiences, the takeover blended learning with purpose. For a day, these young broadcasters weren’t just students—they were stars in their own right, showcasing a future where South African radio thrived on diversity, creativity, and youthful innovation.

One Station, Two Lasting Legacies

Together, these dual initiatives captured the heart of what Jacaranda FM stood for: uplifting communities, empowering youth, and driving tangible change. Whether by restoring hope to burn survivors or by creating real opportunities for aspiring media professionals, the station once again proved that radio was more than just entertainment—it was a powerful force for good.

As South Africa reflected on the meaning of Youth Day, Jacaranda FM’s efforts stood as a powerful reminder: when communities came together with empathy and purpose, they didn’t just celebrate the youth—they invested in their future.