Two South African brothers, with the help of their community, are raising funds to send 14-year-old Joshua Armstrong to the SA Gymnastics Nationals in Cape Town.
Johannesburg, South Africa (20 August 2024) – When it comes to helping each other out, South Africans never shy away from lending a hand. Whether it’s a neighbour in need or a young athlete chasing their dreams, the spirit of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—runs deep.
This was proven once again when two young men were spotted in a parking lot, selling “sweet packs” to make a dream come true.
SuperSport TV presenter Stacey Holland couldn’t help but notice the pair as she walked past a local butchery. They were selling “sweet packs” for R25, hoping to raise R10,000 to send Josh Armstrong to the SA Gymnastics Nationals in Cape Town. Intrigued by their determination, Stacey approached them and soon learned the heartwarming story behind their effort.
“Josh is a 14-year-old gymnast who’s qualified for the SA Gymnastics Nationals in Trampoline. I met him outside a butchery with his older brother, trying to raise funds,” Stacey shared.
“I saw them there two weeks prior selling, and initially, Josh was camera shy. But what really touched me was how his older brother, Wesley, is there supporting him and making sure he can get there! They even took jobs at the butchery to raise money.”
Josh, a vibrant and talented young trampolinist, is currently competing at Level 10 in trampoline. His hard work and dedication have earned him a spot at the South African Games, set to take place in Cape Town on September 24th. But getting there is no small feat—Josh needs to cover the costs of flights, accommodation, and transport to make his dream of competing a reality.
So far, the determined duo have raised R4,000. However, they still need to close the gap to ensure Josh’s participation in one of South Africa’s most prestigious gymnastics competitions. The Armstrong brothers have shown incredible initiative and resilience in their fundraising efforts, but they now need the support of the broader South African community to help Josh soar to new heights.
A crowdfunding campaign has been set up, and South Africans can contribute to Josh’s journey by visiting BackaBuddy. Stacey Holland, moved by their story, has also thrown her support behind the campaign.
“In light of the RayGun nonsense, I can’t stand to see a kid miss out on a chance, especially when he’s taken the initiative to get himself there,” she said.
This is a story of brotherly love, hard work, and the unbreakable spirit of South Africans. With just a little more help, Joshua’s dream of competing at the SA Gymnastics Nationals can come true. Together, we can make sure that this young athlete doesn’t miss out on his chance to shine.
Josh is a 14yr old gymnast who’s qualified for the SA Gymnastics Nationals in Trampoline. I met him outside a butchery with his older brother, trying to raise funds. He needs R10k & has raised R4k selling sweets! Talk about initiative!!👏🏽 https://t.co/umvY8c2uO8 pic.twitter.com/YFam7N6hRQ
— Stacey Holland (@StaceHolland) August 20, 2024
Sources: Stacey Holland | Joshua Armstrong Backabuddy
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