Child protection activist targets world record for a cause
Danie van Loggerenberg, CEO of the National Centre for Child Protection, is out to raise awareness for children with Cerebral Palsy and bullying.
Southdowns College learners in Centurion had the opportunity to witness a world record attempt by National Centre for Child Protection CEO, Danie van Loggerenberg, on Friday, November 17.
Van Loggerenberg is pulling heavy vehicles and buses all around Gauteng to raise the awareness of children with Cerebral Palsy and other learning disabilities, as well as abuse, bullying and neglect.
He is pulling buses and minibuses at 50 venues to accumulate 750 tons pulled as part of his tour from November 10 to March 21, 2024.
The vehicle-pulling has to date recorded almost 200 tons from 21 different venues.
Van Loggerenberg completed his first world record attempt of a one-arm pull of the school bus, as he was joined by Catherine van Staden, a wheelchair triathlete, to raise awareness at the school.
“We have decided to raise awareness for children with cerebral palsy and also for any child that has been bullied.
One of the first things that happens when you have been bullied is you feel as though no one can help you. We are there to help,” said Van Loggerenberg.
He said that, as part of the campaign, he would not use his legs when pulling the vehicle.
Van Staden spoke to the learners about the devices she uses for mobility to raise awareness.
Learners even got a chance to experience what it was like to use some of these devices, such as the hand-cycle.
“At Southdowns College, we believe that children are the most precious treasures on earth. Safeguarding their innocence and nurturing their potential is not just a duty but our highest calling,” said school spokesperson, Corlia Lourens.
“We believe in inclusivity, service towards others and we give our full support to children with cerebral palsy and other learning disabilities.”
Lourens said the school was proudly standing behind Van Loggerenberg as he attempted to break a world record for the worthy cause.
“We were very excited about hosting Van Loggerenberg at Southdowns College and we have taken this opportunity to educate our students and create awareness in our community about cerebral palsy and other disabilities.”
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