We have encountered many innovative and diverse ways to fundraise for charity, both on the ground in Africa and on the part of our volunteers who have returned home to their native countries to host events and collect sponsorships.
However, none in recent memory can compare to Saiqa Aftab, who returned home after volunteering with our partners at African Impact – Thanda and set to work fundraising for our projects that help enrich the lives of those living in the communities that surround Thanda Private Game Reserve.
“I saw the amazing results of the Mama Grace Garden and Chicken Project and wanted to help with the Etshaneni Clinic Renovation,” explained Aftab. “Having visited the clinic in my last week at Thanda, so much work needs to be done.”
With this newfound knowledge of our programs and faith that her money would be used in a sustainable way, Aftab set out to fundraise more money before she heads back to South Africa to work for African Impact. To do so, she decided to mix a little bit of innovation with the practicality of moving to another country.
“As I have a limited time left before leaving the UK and to help the moving process, Ive had to be really ruthless with my wardrobe,” she explained. “Any dresses or suits Ive never worn (or minimally) I decided to auction on e-bay. Im not sure how much it will raise but every tiny little bit will help.”
With the auction already garnering attention and bids, Aftab hopes that the funds will be able to help start work on the Etshaneni Clinic, and raise awareness of organisations that promote responsible tourism and “make organic community sustainability their mission.”
To others that wish to start their own fundraising campaigns but just aren’t sure how to go about it, Aftab has this advice: keep it simple!
“Avoid over complicated things,” she explained. “Events like cake and biscuit sales will raise money just as well as sponsored marathons or skydives, and get friends involved – the more hands and brains, the higher chance of success! You dont have to raise hundreds or thousands of pounds, fundraising is also about taking small steps to a bigger goal!”
Saiqas auction is live. View items and bid here!