Content Creator

CHOC CHILDHOOD CANCER FOUNDATION SOUTH AFRICA
BASED: CHOC HEAD OFFICE
POSITION: CONTENT CREATOR
REPORT TO: BDU MANAGER
TYPE: FIXED TERM CONTRACT-1 YEAR
START DATE: 01 APRIL 2025

MAIN PURPOSE:

We are seeking a talented Content Creator to join our dynamic Business Development Unit. If you have exceptional writing abilities, a meticulous attention to detail, and a talent for storytelling, we encourage you to apply. As a key member of our team, you will play a crucial role in creating captivating, informative, and authentic content.

The incumbent’s job description, under the supervision and guidance of the BDU Manager, entails but is not

limited to the following.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES ARE:
  • Collaborate with subject matter experts and internal stakeholders to gather information and insight for content development through researching industry-related topics to create informative and appealing content.
Writing
  • Writing, editing, and proofreading content to ensure it is free of errors.
  • Develop original and creative ideas for blog posts, articles, website content, social media updates, press releases, email newsletters, and video content.
  • Ensure all content adheres to brand guidelines, tone of voice, and style guidelines.
  • Use storytelling techniques to create compelling narrative that resonates with our donors.
Coordination
  • Collaborate with the BDU Manager and Communications Coordinator to ensure consistent messaging and brand voice across all channels. This includes developing scripts and storylines for video content, aligning them with organisational goals and brand messaging.
  • Participate in brainstorming sessions and contribute creative ideas to enhance content strategies.
Eligibility
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with proficiency in content creation and reporting.
  • The ability to effectively collaborate with other team members while also being self-motivated and able to work independently.

THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POST ARE:

1. Core Qualification

  • Strong written and verbal communications skills.
  • Excellent storytelling abilities.
  • Highly creative and ability to think outside the box.

2. Technical Skills

  • Proficiency in content creation for various platforms, including websites, blogs, social media, press releases, email newsletters, and video scripts.
  • Proficiency in editing and proofreading for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and consistency.

3. Experience and Education

  • Creativity and the ability to generate innovative ideas
  • Must have own vehicle and driver’s license.

With salaries in the range of R18 000,00 – R25 000,00 per month, CHOC contributes towards pension funds and medical aid after a successful probationary period.

To apply submit your CV with the names and contact details of at least 3 recent referees as well as the following documentation to reach the HR Coordinator at vacancies@choc.org.za no later than 11th March 2025.

If you have not received a response by (Date) consider your application unsuccessful

Regional Coordinator – Western Cape

CHOC CHILDHOOD CANCER FOUNDATION SOUTH AFRICA AREA: CHOC WESTERN CAPE REGION

POSITION: REGIONAL COORDINATOR REPORT TO: REGIONAL MANAGER WC

 

MAIN PURPOSE:

To coordinate and fulfil the necessary administrative, financial, database and regional support duties that also include support of CHOC programmes and fundraising initiatives where needed. Together with the members of the WC Region team, to take CHOC’s work forward by maintaining an effective and well- organised regional office. The incumbent’s job description is not limited to the following.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES ARE:

Administrative Duties:

  • Provide the necessary office administration to ensure a well functional
  • Collate documentation and update Salesforce database
  • Check daily all incoming e-mails, to distribute as necessary and take action on those responsible
  • Take minutes of staff meetings, and send draft for RM’s approval and distribute when approved in a timely manner
  • Maintain the staff files and register by ensuring that all papers are filed appropriately
  • Calculate monthly savings on donations received and submit to Regional Manager
  • To carry out stock control once a month and update inventory accordingly
  • Ensure electronic equipment are in working condition that includes telephones; printer
  • Accurate stock control is done once a month and a clean audit is kept at all

 

Financial Duties:

  • Undertake the day-to-day financial work
  • Receive all cash donations, issue receipts, and coordinate with relevant staff regarding the thank you letters
  • Receive and record sales revenue, issues receipts and secure safety of revenue
  • Maintain the offices and hospitals petty cash books as per the financial policies and
  • Obtain necessary quotes according to CHOC procurement policies and procedures for the RM approval;
  • Seek the necessary documents for new supplier take
  • To distribute and record the Transport and Bereavement Funds to parent/caregivers (cash disbursements)
  • To prepare the four hospitals and two offices petty cashbooks bi-monthly for the RM to be checked and then submitted to Head Office in a timely
  • Manage the counting of tin monies.
  • Manage the jumble sale
  • Manage office supplies and equipment and undertake stock control and co-ordinate inventories
  • Manage the asset register for yearly submission to head
  • Accept, record in-kind donations and upload to Manage the appropriate acknowledgement through Salesforce.

 

Support Programs, Marketing and Awareness Events:

  • Provide assistance with CHOC’s support programs
  • Assist with fundraising and awareness events
  • Assist with uploading of contact information (fundraising and programmes) to
  • Order and upkeep the regional merchandise

 

THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POST

Qualification: Grade 12 with an administration, finance and office management related qualification.

Experience and skills:

  • At least 5 years’ experience in general administration and bookkeeping preferably in the NGO
  • High computer literacy, particularly in MS Office; and preferably in database systems (CRM),
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
  • Strong administration, organizational and coordination
  • Good with figures and a basic understanding of accounting, financial management and
  • A valid unendorsed South African driver’s license is

 

Attributes:

  • A team player who also works well independently
  • A strong work ethic; accuracy; accountability; honesty & integrity; a master at time management; good interpersonal skills; strong alignment with CHOC’s mission and values; radiate professionalism; A highly motivated individual with a willingness to take initiative and responsibility.

 

To apply submit your application together with supporting documents with the names and contact details of at least three recent referees to reach vacancies@choc.org.za (subject line state: (WC REGIONAL COORDINATOR) no later than 15 February 2025.

 

If you have not received a response by close of business 28 February 2025, consider your application unsuccessful

International Childhood Cancer Awareness Day – 15 February 2025

In alignment with its ongoing dedication to fostering awareness and advancing care for children and teenagers facing cancer, South Africa is honoured to participate in the global initiative for International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) 2025. This initiative, spearheaded by Childhood Cancer International (CCI), aims to highlight the vital need for improved access to treatment, care and support for children and adolescents impacted by cancer worldwide.

The Department of Health working with stakeholders including the World Health Organization, Childhood Cancer Foundation SA and SAAPHO recognise the importance of collaboration and commitment in addressing these challenges and supporting those in need.

International Childhood Cancer Day, celebrated every 15 February, unites organisations, healthcare professionals, and advocates in a powerful movement to ensure early diagnosis, quality treatment, and unwavering support for young cancer patients and their families. The 2025 campaign, titled “Equal Access to Care for All Children with Cancer,” is a bold initiative aimed at promoting effective solutions, showcasing impactful community initiatives, and fostering transformative change to significantly improve childhood cancer outcomes on a global scale. This year’s theme, “Inspiring Action,” emphasises the necessity of collective efforts to eliminate disparities and ensure that all children have access to the care they deserve.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 400,000 children are diagnosed with cancer globally each year. In South Africa, around 1,000 new cases are recorded annually by the South African Children’s Tumour Registry. However, it is crucial to note that many additional cases remain undiagnosed and untreated due to barriers in accessing healthcare.

Early detection is essential for saving lives. Parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers must recognise the warning signs, which include: a white spot in the eye or sudden blindness; a lump or swelling in any part of the body, especially the stomach; unexplained fever or weight loss; persistent bone pain or easy fractures; difficulty walking, changes in coordination, or severe headaches (sometimes with vomiting)

“The early diagnosis of childhood cancer and the prompt referral to specialized treatment centres are crucial for enhancing patient outcomes. Childhood cancer is indeed curable; however, this is contingent upon timely diagnosis and immediate treatment,” said Professor Gita Naidu, Chair of the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology Oncology (SAAPHO).

Prof Gita Naidu, Head of Paediatric Oncology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital continues by highlighting the significant challenges faced by families, including emotional distress and anxiety; financial pressures from lost income and medical costs; the challenges of traveling long distances for treatment; struggling to balance caregiving responsibilities among siblings and social stigma associated with childhood cancer.


Speaking of the importance of psychosocial support to childhood cancer patients and their families Dr Kibachio Mwangi of the WHO South African office indicated that “childhood cancer treatment is incomplete without palliative care which provides the much needed support for pain relief, dignity and psychosocial support to patients and their families” he indicated that they are working with the Department of Health and other stakeholders to streamline the provision of palliative care through specialised units as well as in community and home-based platforms.

On this important occasion, all stakeholders recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of healthcare professionals, civil society, parent organisations, NGOs, and individuals dedicated to improving care and outcomes for childhood cancer. Your unwavering commitment is essential to our mission, and together, we are making a significant impact.

South Africa supports the WHO Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), which aims to achieve a global survival rate of 60% by 2030. This initiative prioritises providing treatment to children and adolescents in a way that maintains their dignity and reduces suffering.

“We firmly stand in solidarity with children, families, and caregivers impacted by childhood cancer,” declared Hedley Lewis, CEO of CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA. “By championing ICCD 2025, we are committed to raising awareness, advocating for essential healthcare reforms, and ensuring that every child has equal access to life-saving treatments.”

Join us in the powerful movement for ICCD 2025 by sharing your voice on social media with #ICCD2025. Connect with our official channels on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter to help ignite change.

For more information and media enquiries, please contact:

Mr Foster Mohale

Health Departmental Spokesperson

0724323792

Foster.mohale@health.gov.za

Antonella Swanepoel

BDU Manager

072 330 6492

Antonella.swanepoel@choc.org.za

Leading with Hope – January Newsletter

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Together, We Can Make a Difference
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Hope
Starts Here
January
2025

Leading with Hope

A message from our Chairman
 
Welcome back everyone to a new year.

I trust we all had a wonderful festive break and are back to new challenges for 2025. 

We have come a long way from our humble beginnings with limited resources and a small team.

Many of our goals and visions have been realised, but the fight against cancer is ongoing. Everyone at CHOC plays a crucial role in this battle.

CHOC’s success in achieving ‘Keeping More Than Hope Alive’ is built on the dedication of our human resources: staff, volunteers, donors, and parents. They make our mission possible. We don’t just raise funds; we save lives.”

I am confident that by working together, we will achieve even more than we envisioned for 2025.

Let’s make 2025 the greatest year, in all our endeavours.

Thank you all for what you do.

Yours in Hope, Eugene Subban
Chairman of the CHOC Board

Navigating the Return to School After Cancer Treatment

Helping Children and Teens Thrive: Returning to School After Cancer

When a child or teen is diagnosed with cancer, it can be a profoundly emotional and challenging experience, not only for the family but also for their school community. Misunderstandings and fears surrounding the illness often create barriers to providing the support the learner needs. Educators play a crucial role in helping the child reintegrate into school life, but to do so effectively, they must overcome fear with knowledge.
 
At CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA, we are here to guide and support educators in creating an environment where families recovering from childhood cancer can thrive academically and emotionally.

Supporting Learners and Families

CHOC provides comprehensive care for children and teenagers with cancer and their families. With regional offices, branches, and 11 accommodation facilities near treatment centres, CHOC ensures families receive the support they need during a difficult time.
Our holistic approach includes:
  • Counselling and Psychosocial Support: Helping families and educators navigate the emotional challenges of childhood cancer.
  • Free Accommodation and Transport: Ensuring that no child has to abandon treatment due to financial constraints.
  • Food Parcels and Parent-to-Parent Support Groups: Offering practical assistance and fostering a sense of community.
  • Education and Advocacy: Training educators, healthcare professionals, and traditional practitioners to raise awareness of childhood cancer and promote early detection.

Empowering Educators to Make a Difference

Returning to school after cancer treatment is a significant milestone for a child. It is essential for educators to understand how to accommodate the learner’s medical, emotional, and social needs. With the right knowledge and resources, schools can become safe and nurturing spaces where children can heal, learn, and grow.

Understanding the Emotional Impact of Childhood Cancer

A cancer diagnosis affects more than just the child or teenager; it impacts the entire family and their circle of friends. Educators play a critical role in fostering understanding and creating a supportive environment for everyone involved.
  • For the Learner:
    Returning to school after cancer treatment is an exciting yet challenging time. A child may feel anxious about their appearance, worry about fitting in, or fear falling behind academically. They may also feel a sense of loss from missed experiences, which could lead to feelings of anger or sadness. Encouragement and inclusion are key to helping them regain confidence.
  • For the Siblings:
    The siblings of a child with cancer often feel overlooked as the family focuses on the ill child’s needs. They may experience feelings of rejection, anger, or confusion as family roles shift. Educators can provide much-needed stability by maintaining routines and offering a listening ear.
  • For the Family and Friends:
    Cancer changes family dynamics. One parent may spend significant time at the hospital, while the other manages home life. Friends may feel unsure how to approach the situation. Open communication and empathy from educators and peers can make a world of difference. 
The iPad Learning Programme facilitated by iSchoolAfrica commenced with CHOC in May 2024. The iSchoolAfrica CHOC programme has the following key critical objectives;
  • To assist paediatric cancer patients with school work while they are in hospital
  • To act as a distraction device when most needed by our learners on their cancer journey.
Working together with input from CHOC, ISchoolAfrica and the hospitals, the iPad Programme has been tailored to not only augment educational goals and minimise learning gaps, but also to create a distracting, creative, and fun space for childhood cancer patients.

Bringing Education to Life: The Impact of iSchoolAfrica and CHOC

“As an educator at Chris Hani Baragwanath School, I’ve witnessed the remarkable impact of iSchoolAfrica’s partnership with CHOC in the oncology ward. Using iPads, we’ve brought digital learning to young patients, ensuring they stay connected to their education while undergoing treatment.The children are responding with great enthusiasm and lessons have become more interactive, helping them remain engaged and motivated. The iPads provide a sense of normalcy and creativity, allowing children to focus on learning rather than their circumstances.” 

Ms SN Mpila, Departmental Head of Foundation Phase.

 
Above pictured
Ms SN Mpila with one of the
iPads handed over
Above pictured
One of the teachers using the iPads with the students

This initiative has been a lifeline for many, ensuring they don’t fall behind in schoolwork. It’s also tailored to each child’s pace and ability, making learning more accessible and enjoyable.
 
The collaboration between educators, CHOC, and iSchoolAfrica proves that education can thrive even in challenging environments, empowering young patients and giving them hope for a brighter future. The programme is truly transformative.
 
Join Us in Making a Difference

CHOC relies on the generosity of corporate sponsors, donors, and compassionate individuals who share our vision. By supporting CHOC, you can help us bring hope, healing, and a brighter future to children with cancer and their families.
For more information about CHOC’s resources or how you can contribute, visit the CHOC Website here.

Download our Flip Flop Day colouring in page here. Let’s build a world where every child can return to school with confidence, courage, and hope!

NOTE: The above is taken from our book: Back to School, Prepared by and obtainable from CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa
 

Another Way to Give:


All it takes is one swipe!

Simply get a free MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet card and swipe it when shopping at our retail partners.

A percentage of your spend will be donated CHOC, it’s that easy and won’t cost you a cent!

Join here to start making a difference now!

Make Every Step Count this Flip Flop Day

When we come together, our soles are unstoppable!

Looking for fierce, compassionate “sole mates” ready to make a difference for the courageous children and teenagers of CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa who will never have to stand alone in their ‘sole’ful quest to conquer childhood cancer!

For only R10 you can be part of the movement to walk with children and teenagers who have been diagnosed with childhood cancer, and their families.

Get your stickers now:

  • Download our order form here

  • Click here to read more

Ok, but what about some Flip’n cool merch?!

Purchase your awesome merch here or fill out the order form!

Turn Your Taxes Into Hope: Support CHOC This Season

Why donate to CHOC this Tax Season

At CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA, your generosity makes a tangible difference in the lives of children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer or a life-threatening blood disorder, and their families.

Did you know that your donation can also benefit you?

As a registered Public Benefit Organisation, CHOC is approved to issue Section 18A tax certificates, allowing you to claim your donation as a tax-deductible expense (up to 10% of taxable income).

Here’s how to request your Section 18A Tax Certificate:

  1. Complete the Form:

    • Individual donors: Download the form here.

    • Company/Trust/School donors:  Download the form here.

  2. Submit Proof of Payment: Send your completed form and proof of payment to donations@choc.org.za.

  3. In-Kind Donations: Provide supporting documentation for verification.*

*Note (In-Kind Donations)

Section 18A Certificates can be issued for in-kind donations on receipt of supporting documentation required to verify the cost of the in-kind donation incurred by the donor.  If items are purchased from a supplier the receipt or invoice will be sufficient. If items are donated from the company’s stock, then an invoice or supporting document reflecting the cost price will be required. The certificate will be issued with the total amount excluding VAT. These documents must be submitted with the Section 18A Request Form mentioned above.

Please ensure that your information complies with updated tax certificate regulations (effective 1 March 2023) in terms of Government Gazette Notice No. 48104 published on 24 February 2023.

Bonus for Businesses:

Qualify for SED points with a letter confirming CHOC’s impact, including third-party verification.

For any queries, please contact us at donations@choc.org.za

Your contributions help sustain vital services and provide hope to families in need. Request your Section 18A certificate today and let’s keep making a difference together!

Did You Know? CHOC’s Nationwide Impact

Supporting Families Across South Africa

Having the power to improve the lives of others is a privilege, one that is closely associated with its own sense of obligation. Acting on these powerful feelings of responsibility is an excellent way of reinforcing our own personal values and feel like we’re living in a way that abides by our beliefs.

Upcoming Events

Supporting Families Across South Africa

We have an inspiring lineup of events planned for the upcoming months, each designed to raise awareness, foster community spirit, and support children and families who have been diagnosed childhood cancer or a life-threatening blood disorder.

From fundraising campaigns to community-driven activities, these events provide a meaningful way for you to get involved and make a difference.

Midmar Mile 6th–9th February

We’re kicking off the year with a splash! The MidMOO Mile is just around the corner. Our 8 Milers will brave the waters first on the 6th and 7th, while the main herd takes to the dam on the 8th and 9th. We cannot wait to see you there, so if you haven’t registered to swim yet, now’s the time to dive in! Below you will find all the info you need to know: 

Get your goggles ready and your cow suits out because we’re taking on the MidMOO Mile for CHOC once again! Together, we’ll swim, laugh, and raise MOOLA to make a difference for the children and teenagers diagnosed with cancer. 

Event Details:

Date: 6-9 February 2025
Location: Midmar Dam
Goal: Raising MOOLA to support CHOC!

Whether you’re aiming for all 8 miles or just want to support the cause, we need YOU! 

How you can get involved:

  • Join the Herd: Sign up for the swim and wear your patches with pride!

  • Raise MOOLA: Let’s smash fundraising records together!

  • Cheer Us On: Can’t swim? No problem! Support the team by donating or spreading the word.

Let’s make Midmar 2025 the most MOO-valous one yet! 

Ready to dive in? 

Contact Durbs Daisy here today to join the herd!! 

Visit our website for more details and join us as we come together to bring hope to those who need it most. Your participation helps us continue providing essential support to these young warriors and their families.

To spread hope, follow us on the social media platforms below

    

A Mother’s Journey: Finding Hope in Challenging Times

As we continue to support children, teenagers and their families facing childhood cancer, we are reminded of their incredible resilience and strength. This month, we share the powerful story of Jabu’s mom, Luleka, and her experience with CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation in the Western Cape

Luleka’s world was turned upside down when her young son, Jabu, was diagnosed with leukaemia at just 1 year and 10 months old. The news was devastating, and she struggled to come to terms with the reality of her child’s illness. “At first, I couldn’t believe it. I was in denial,” she recalls. “I couldn’t accept that my child had cancer.”

As Luleka navigated the complexities of Jabu’s diagnosis and treatment, a nurse introduced her to CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation Western Cape. “I worried about finances, finding a place to stay, and having enough food, as we were coming from far,” Luleka explains. “But CHOC came to our rescue, providing us with much-needed support.”

As Jabu underwent treatment, Luleka found comfort and solace in the CHOC community. “At first, I felt alone and overwhelmed, but as time went on, CHOC became like a home to us,” she says. “The staff, the volunteers, and the other families—everyone was so supportive and caring. It gave us a sense of belonging and connection that helped us through the tough times.”

Even in difficult circumstances, CHOC helped Luleka and Jabu celebrate life’s precious moments. When Jabu’s birthday approached, Luleka worried it would be a difficult day since he would be receiving treatment. But CHOC had other plans. “They made Jabu’s birthday so special,” Luleka remembers. “They brought cake, balloons, and gifts. It was a wonderful celebration, and it made us feel we were not  alone.” The highlight of Jabu’s birthday was the singing and dancing at the CHOC Plumstead House.

Luleka’s story is a testament to CHOC’s unwavering support. “CHOC is there to give a hand and hope to those facing this journey,” she says. “They provide more than just support—they offer a sense of community, belonging, and hope. I am so grateful for everything they have done for us.” Her journey is a powerful reminder that no family should face childhood cancer alone—there is always hope and a community ready to help.