What began as a light-hearted Spring Day challenge in September has grown into a powerful moment of community generosity. On Monday, 1 December 2025, Drive 959 successfully hosted its first-ever Pledge and Plunge for Charity, broadcast live from the Kaya House studios between 3pm and 6pm.
Throughout the show, Glen Lewis, Skhumba and Kgomotso Meso braved the icy plunge in support of orphanages and old age homes, urging listeners to pledge and help strengthen these vital community organisations.
Within the first few minutes, the first major pledge of the day came from African Media Entertainment (AME), contributing R10,000. This was soon followed by Japanese manufacturer, Yamaha, who pledged R20,000 in support of the initiative.
Support continued to grow as listeners, individuals, and local businesses stepped forward with additional contributions.
DJ Zali of Street Kids Media pledged R20,000, Kyalami Shisanyama pledged R6,000, and AA Bakery donated R14,000 worth of bread. Glen Lewis and a close friend each pledged R5,000, while other prominent Kaya 959 presenters, staff and listeners made their contributions on the fundraiser platform, BackaBuddy. The largest contribution of the day came via a challenge from the Hollywood Group, with Buhle Mkhize their PR & Communications Manager pledging to donate R100, 000 on behalf of the Group if the three Drive 959 hosts could brave the icy baths for 10 minutes.
For a first-time activation, the response far exceeded expectations, resulting in a total of R200,000 – a powerful reflection of the strong support Kaya 959 enjoys from its audience.
“This initiative reminded us of the incredible power our listeners hold when they come together for a greater purpose. The generosity we witnessed today shows just how deeply our audience cares about uplifting the communities we serve.” – Maekanya Morotoba, Commercial Programming Manager at Kaya 959.
Aside from the three Drive 959 presenters, Feel Good presenter Andy Maqondwane, Kaya 959 Acting Managing Executive Dave Tiltmann, General Manager for Motorcycles and marine at Yamaha Melvin Victor, and some staunch supporters of the show were among the participants in the Ice Bath Plunge.
All funds and donations raised during the drive will support selected orphanages and old age homes, such as Mother of Peace in Northriding, Thuli Home in Orange Farm, Bula-Mahlo in Tembisa and Frida Hartley Shelter for Women in Yeoville, helping them continue their essential work in caring for vulnerable children and the elderly.
The success of the inaugural Pledge and Plunge marks the beginning of what promises to become a meaningful annual community initiative at Kaya 959.
ENDS
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