Radio DJ gives back to Actonville commnity
"I believe my calling extends beyond entertainment, it is uplift others."
What started as a personal birthday mission tied to self-growth has morphed into a heartfelt community initiative that now feeds hundreds of families in Actonville.
Born into a family deeply rooted in Benoni, DJ and broadcaster Kyle Cassim is using his platform to give back to a community that has shaped his life for generations.
Cassim said his connection to the area stretches back decades.
Although he lived in Actonville only briefly as a child, much of his family history remains connected to the community.
“I wish to continue uplifting my community, also tapping into helping schools, those living in the municipal flats, using my networks to support my initiatives of giving back to an area that I feel very close to,” said Cassim.
Spending many of his teenage years attending the Actonville Full Gospel Church, where he was baptised and now serves as a Sunday school teacher, he feels the Actonville community is deeply entrenched in his roots.
“The same pastor who baptised me in my teens christened my son, who is now turning two; it is a full-circle moment,” he reflected.
Inspired by his uncle’s feeding schemes and his own desire to make a meaningful impact, Cassim began supporting community outreach projects in Actonville with the help of sponsors, including Benoni Super Spar, Blue Ribbon, Rossa Bedfordview, as well as donations from friends and family.
Last year, in celebration of 365 days of sobriety and a lifestyle free from cigarettes and alcohol, Cassim fed 365 people on his birthday.
This year, he fed 1 000 people in Actonville as the initiative continued to grow.
“For Valentine’s Day, we fed about 500 people and gave each person a Valentine’s card from me,” Cassim shared.
He is at a stage in life where he feels he wants to give back more while setting a healthier, more Christ-like example for the youth, to help them grow their lives, careers, families, and friendship circles.
“I believe God has given me the talents and gifts of speaking, music and performing, but I also believe my ultimate calling is bigger than entertainment. I believe it is to uplift, motivate, share love with those around me and bless those who are less fortunate,” Cassim shared.
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