King Nobevu and Thokozani are currently undertaking an extraordinary journey on foot from Ekhuruleni to Cape Town, driven by nothing more than determination, purpose, and an unwavering belief in the power of opportunity. With South African flags in hand, a small tent on their backs, and no support vehicle or backup team, the pair are walking one of the country’s longest and most demanding routes to raise funds for the Pariio Community Skills Training Centre.

Their mission is simple, yet deeply impactful: to equip unemployed young people with practical skills that can transform their lives and uplift entire communities.

Each day, the two men rise and continue along the N1, facing exhaustion, harsh weather conditions, and the uncertainty of where they will find rest. With no guaranteed accommodation, they are often left vulnerable, highlighting the real dangers of sleeping on the roadside.

Yet, despite these challenges, their commitment to their cause never wavers.

This is not just a walk. It is a powerful act of purpose.

Pariio Community Skills Training Centre

The Pariio Community Skills Training Centre is focused on addressing one of South Africa’s most pressing
challenges — youth unemployment. By offering hands-on training in practical, income-generating skills such as sewing, the Centre aims to empower young people to become self-reliant and economically active.

In many communities, a lack of opportunity often leads young people down difficult paths, including crime, substance abuse, and homelessness. Pariio seeks to change that narrative by providing a safe space for learning, growth, and development — giving youth the tools to build sustainable futures.

However, the Centre urgently needs resources to expand its impact.

The funds raised through this ambitious 1,400km walk will go directly towards purchasing sewing machines and other essential equipment needed to train students.

These are not just tools — they are stepping stones to independence, dignity, and hope.

For King Nevuso and Thokozani, every kilometre walked is a step closer to changing a life.

Their journey has also captured the attention and support of the media. Petrus from Parys Tourism Radio has become a passionate champion of their cause, following their route closely and sharing their story live on air.

Day by day, listeners are kept updated on the walkers’ progress, challenges, and milestones as they make their way towards Cape Town — turning their journey into a shared national experience that continues to inspire many.

Today they will be approaching the halfway mark of their incredible journey, with the pair nearing the town of Hopetown — a symbolic milestone that reflects both how far they have come and how much still lies ahead.

Despite growing awareness, the reality on the ground remains tough. With no formal support along the way, they still rely heavily on the kindness of strangers — for a warm meal, a safe place to sleep, or a moment of encouragement to keep going.

Their flags, carried proudly along the route, have become symbols of hope and unity — a reminder that even the biggest challenges can be faced when the purpose is greater than the pain.

Members of the public who wish to support their mission can contribute via their official BackaBuddy
fundraising page: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/organization/pariio-community-skills-center

Every contribution, no matter how small, goes directly towards equipping the Pariio Community Skills Training Centre with sewing machines and essential tools needed to empower young people with life-changing skills.

Communities, businesses, and individuals along the N1 and beyond are urged to support these two remarkable men. Whether through donations, offering accommodation, providing food, or simply spreading the word, every act of kindness brings them closer to their goal. Because this journey is not just about reaching Cape Town. It is about building a future where young people are given the opportunity to learn, to work, and to thrive — instead of being left behind.

King Nevuso and Thokozani are walking 1,400 kilometres so others don’t have to walk the difficult road of
poverty and hopelessness alone.

Now, they need a nation to walk with them.

Together we can make this happen.