A group of 13 kids and facilitators. 9 days. Countless memories. One unforgettable experience.
Van doors slammed shut. Boards were strapped down. And just like that, the journey began – not just across provinces, but into a world of possibility. A group of enthusiastic young people and dedicated facilitators set off for the Corona Cero Open JBay. The destination? The iconic surf capital, Jeffreys Bay. The goal? Discovery, empowerment, breakthrough moments – and a whole lot of joy.
Every day of the trip brought something new: from first-time experiences and new friendships to breathtaking scenery and powerful moments. Whether it was spending a day at the beach, surf sessions, boat rides through beautiful canals, or devotions under the stars, each day served as a fresh adventure and a stepping stone toward something greater.
For many of our kids, this was the first time they left their hometowns – let alone stood on the sands of Jeffreys Bay. But it wasn’t just the travel or the waves that left an impression. It was the shift.
“This was more than a road trip,” said Danielle Paulsen, Programmes Manager at 9Miles.
“It was a game-changer. Seeing our kids watch their surf heroes in real life – you could literally see their worldviews stretching.”
They weren’t just spectators cheering from the dunes. They were soaking up inspiration, sharing dreams, and already plotting how to land those airs like Jack Robinson and Yago Dora.
Highlights from the Journey
This wasn’t your average beach holiday.
The crew surfed at Boneyards, dipped into Paradise Beach, and even scored cameos in Zigzag Magazine, thanks to Mikey capturing them in their element (check it out: Zigzag Feature).
“We saw leadership come alive. Confidence. Curiosity. Laughter,” shared Pearle Jenneker, who heads up events and fundraising at 9Miles. “Each one shined in their own unique way.”
Whether it was spontaneous dance battles or post-surf toasties and tea, every moment mattered – and every smile told a bigger story. For one of the boys, Yannick, this was his first-ever time leaving Cape Town.
“He started the week shy and unsure,” said Shanna-Leigh Harris, Programme Coordinator at 9Miles. “By the end, he was the first in the water, grinning ear to ear. That’s what this is about – freedom and growth.”
Jumping castles, canal cruises and even Spanish lessons by the fire (yes, really) became sacred little snapshots of possibility. The message? You belong here.
Beyond the Waves
Founder Nigel Savel knows how powerful a change in scenery can be.
“Our kids come from places where opportunity feels far away,” he said. “These experiences break through those barriers. They remind young people that the world is wide – and they have a place in it.”
J-Bay became a platform for future leaders, artists, athletes, and changemakers.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To our incredible donors and sponsors: you didn’t just fund a trip – you changed lives. You opened doors to new experiences, new confidence, and new belief in what’s possible. You showed these kids that people out there truly see them, believe in them, and are willing to walk this journey with them.
From all of us at 9Miles Project, and from every smiling face you helped light up:
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Because of you, seeds have been planted – and we know they’ll grow into something powerful.
To support future youth journeys like this, or to become a donor, contact us.
