"Relaunching Instinct in my hometown where I started it and incorporating revenue from every sale to empower underprivileged students is a dream come true. Business can solve big social problems but if I can just help with one small problem, the life trajectory of a student, then my mission will be fulfilled."
How long has 9Miles Project been around?
We were established on 26 March 2013.
Who founded 9Miles Project?
Nigel and Sher’Neil Savel.
Where are you situated?
Our headquarters is at Strandfontein Pavilion, Corner of Baden Powell Drive and Strandfontein Road in Cape Town. Our office is at 15 Utica Way, Strandfontein.
What areas do you work in?
We work in the informal settlements of 7de Laan, Masincedane, Oppermans Oord, and City Mission in Strandfontein; Elands Bay on the West Coast, and Sea Vista in the Eastern Cape.
Our community projects and events also impact the greater Strandfontein and Cape Town.
Are you a registered organisation?
Yes, we are a registered nonprofit organisation (NPO 116-995) as well as Public benefit organisation (PBO 930 046 181) with Section 18A status – this means we are able to issue tax receipts for any donations received.
What is your number of participants or beneficiaries?
We have 140 children in Strandfontein, Elands Bay and St Francis Bay who benefit from programmes which include literacy and academic support, food aid, welfare and holistic support, surfing and fitness, art & music therapy, and environmental education. We also reach more children and youth via our community events and training workshops and have 800 direct beneficiaries in our Strandfontein communities.
Why did you choose Surfing and not other sports?
Surfing had a profound impact on Nigel’s life and kept him away from the social ills in his community at a young age. He therefore realised that the sport could have the same impact on vulnerable and at-risk youth around him. Surfing is not only a great way to keep physically fit but has many psychological benefits too. It is a profound activity that assists in decreasing anxiety and stress, and serves as an outlet for the trauma which the children in our communities experience on a daily basis. Better physical health leads to greater mental health and academic performance.
Surfing teaches many life skills like determination, perseverance, and decision-making. It also makes surfing (which is considered an expensive activity) more accessible and inclusive.
Is 9Miles Project just for surrounding communities?
Our afterschool and holiday programmes are freely available for youth from the areas in, and around Strandfontein and Elands Bay, who are able to commit to attending at least 60% of our programmes on an ongoing basis. However, we do reach additional communities via our various other activities e.g. Holiday programmes, job-readiness programmes, GEM Girls’ camps etc.
Where can I drop off food or clothing donations?
Donations can be dropped off at our clubhouse at Strandfontein Pavilion, or at our office by prior arrangement. Depending on the location, we can also collect certain donations.
How can I book a surf lesson?
Surf lessons can be booked by contacting info@9milesproject.org or 082 042 7701.
How can I join the 9Miles Surf Club?
The Surf Club meets every 2nd Saturday of the month from 8h30 – 11h00 and sessions are R200 per person. To join, please email info@9milesproject.org or Whatsapp 065 289 2917 to be added to the Surf Club Whatsapp group.
Have you got a wetsuit in my size for lessons?
We have wetsuits which fit all shapes and sizes.
Must I be fit to do surfing?
Our lessons are facilitated by patient, experienced coaches who cater for all fitness levels and ages.
