Lowveld Cupcake Angels baked up a storm on September 26 to raise vital funds for brave young cancer fighters.

Celebrating its 13th year in the region, the beloved community event brought together passionate volunteer bakers, local businesses and shoppers, all joining hands to raise vital funds for brave young cancer fighters and their families.

The event was hosted at i’langa Mall, where the cupcakes were sold. Mugg & Bean also supported the cause by raising awareness of the initiative.

National Cupcake Day is the flagship initiative of Cupcakes of Hope, a non-profit organisation that has been providing financial, emotional and practical support to childhood cancer patients across South Africa since 2012. This year’s national drive saw community members stepping up at more than 80 shopping centres nationwide.

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Corporate drive brings sweet support to hospital wards

Locals started spreading the cupcake magic long before the main event, led by the Mpumalanga representative for Cupcakes of Hope, Jacki van Zyl, who launched a dedicated business drive.

“Thanks to SPAR Lowveld, which baked and sponsored more than 1 000 delicious cupcakes, treats were delivered directly to corporate doors across Mbombela. The drive gave local businesses a sweet way to give back while spoiling their staff, clients and suppliers,” Van Zyl said.

She added that KMI Airport purchased 300 cupcakes for a special cause.

Van Zyl and KMI Airport head of community liaison Mbongeni Mashigo visited all the children’s wards at Rob Ferreira Hospital on September 22 to hand-deliver the treats. The gesture brought smiles not only to the young oncology patients, but also to children throughout the paediatric units, as well as their parents and dedicated healthcare providers.

“It was incredibly special to be able to take the cupcakes into the hospital and share them with the children, their parents and the nursing staff,” Van Zyl said. “National Cupcake Day is about supporting children with cancer, but it is also about the power of kindness – letting these families know their community stands behind them.”

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Gold ribbon marks month of community kindness

The event held extra significance, as September marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, represented globally by a gold ribbon.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who baked, sponsored, bought cupcakes, volunteered or simply stopped by i’langa Mall to support us,” Van Zyl said. “Every cupcake sold and every act of kindness adds up to something much bigger. A heartfelt thank you to our Lowveld Cupcake Angels, SPAR Lowveld, KMI Airport, i’langa Mall and our entire community for helping us bake for a difference.”