Adam Jacobs, a 22-year-old Capetonian and the force behind the Chasing Adam brand, has taken his passion for cycling to new heights.
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Known for his motivational social media messages urging others to ‘get out there and get moving,’ Jacobs embarked on an ambitious journey around the African continent on 6 July 2024, starting from Rook Cycles in Bree Street, Cape Town.
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This ride, conceived by Jacobs, aims to raise funds for Waves for Change (W4C), a non-profit organisation operating five surfing hubs in the Western and Eastern Cape.
W4C’s Surf Therapy programmes provide crucial mental health support to vulnerable children in the community.
‘We all know someone, including ourselves, who has faced mental health battles. Some of us have even lost people to suicide in our circles.’
‘The youth globally are showing increasing signs of decreased mental health and in South Africa, the socio-economic situation as well as the normal stresses experienced by the youth of today, exacerbate the need for increased awareness of the importance of mental health, the support available, and to make sure that everyone knows that they can reach out and are not alone,’ says Jacobs.
Jacobs’ route will span 34 countries, and he plans to document his journey through weekly reflective blog posts and updates on social media.
‘I will have limited digital connectivity and am also consciously restricting my daily digital engagement.’
‘This ride is about facing fear, overcoming hardships, learning to be present and appreciating the smaller things in life. I don’t wish to experience it via my phone.’
Jacobs aims to raise R100 000 during his journey for Waves for Change.
‘We are so honoured that Adam has chosen us as the beneficiary of his fundraising effort. It costs around R10,000-00 per child for them to complete the full Surf Therapy programme and aftercare service, so R100,000 will benefit 10 children. With each child that benefits, there is a ripple effect. They are more self-confident and equipped to tackle life on life’s terms, which translates into a positive impact on their own families and communities,’ says relationships and event manager at W4C, Tania Bailey.
To stay updated on his progress, check in on his blog or Instagram page.
Founded in 2010, Waves for Change (W4C) is a South African non-profit focused on providing mental health support to children in underserved communities through surfing.
Operating from Cape Town, W4C runs five beach sites across the Western Cape (Muizenberg, Monwabisi, Hout Bay) and Eastern Cape (Gqeberha, East London).
Each week, 2 500 children from 43 communities receive one Surf Therapy session for 10 months.
Graduates join the Surf Club, receiving monthly sessions until age 18. Meals and safe transport are provided after each session.
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Also read:
Catching waves: Surf school offers ‘safe-haven’ for boys in Muizenberg
Picture: @chasingadam / Instagram