At 9Miles Project, every story carries heart… and this year, two incredible women from our team are stepping out of their comfort zones and into the ocean for something bigger than themselves.
On 2 May, Pearle and Marishka (or Mish, as most know her) won’t just be supporting from behind the scenes, they’ll be paddling out alongside our kids’ teams, taking on the 100Wave Challenge, wave after wave.
And their “why” runs deep.
Pearle: From the Office to the Ocean
For the past five years, Pearle Jenneker has been a constant at 9Miles, not just as part of the office team, but as someone who has become family.
She’s walked closely with our young people through highs and lows, offering guidance, encouragement and sometimes a bit of tough love. Whether she’s been mentoring, organising, or simply showing up with her warm, open heart, Pearle has played a big role in creating the safe space our kids call home.
If you’ve met Pearle, you’ll know her energy instantly: gentle, kind and always ready to connect. The kind of person who will strike up a conversation with anyone and leave you feeling like you’ve known her for years.
Behind the scenes, she laughs about the “100 miles, 100 smiles, and 100 errands a day”… but every moment has helped build something meaningful.
This time, she’s stepping out from behind the desk and into the waves, aiming to raise R10 000 to continue supporting the work that has changed so many lives, including her own.
You can support Pearle in her mission: Donate Now
Mish: Showing Up From Coast to Coast
While Pearle’s impact is felt daily on-site, Mish’s work stretches across distance but never at the cost of connection.
The kids of Elands Bay have captured her in a way she can’t quite put into words. She’s seen their grit, their joy and the quiet strength they carry as they keep showing up, no matter the challenges. Through her work, she’s witnessed just how much these programmes matter, how safe spaces like 9Miles give young people the chance to dream bigger, grow stronger and believe in a different future. In a place like Elands Bay, where resources are limited, this support isn’t just valuable, it’s essential.
Taking on the 100Wave Challenge is Mish’s way of standing with them. A way of saying, I see you, I believe in you, and I’m willing to push myself because you do the same every day.
For her, it’s a commitment to the future of these incredible West Coast kids.
Mish has set a goal to raise R5 000 to help keep these transformative programmes running strong.
Her message is simple, but powerful:
Go 9Miles and beyond with me for the youth of Elands Bay!
Support Mish on her journey: Donate Now
More Than a Challenge
Together, Pearle and Mish represent the heart of 9Miles; different roles, different journeys but one shared purpose: showing up for young people, again and again.
As they paddle out alongside our kids, this isn’t just about 100 waves.
It’s about community.
It’s about courage.
It’s about creating spaces where young people can believe in something more.
And you’re part of that story too.
Whether you choose to support Pearle, Mish, or the broader 100Wave Challenge, every contribution helps us continue this work, building futures, one wave at a time.
So come along for the ride.
Let’s not just go the extra mile…
Let’s go all the way.
Get involved in the 100Wave Challenge
