Meet the Cancervivers

Belinda Botha bravely faced her breast cancer diagnosis in 2004 with determination. After detecting a lump, she underwent a mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. Her journey inspired her to join Cancervive in 2017, where she passionately educates others about cancer. Belinda’s experience taught her the importance of self-awareness and supporting others through their unique journeys.

Lorraine was born in Bellville, Cape Town, where she grew up and worked. She’s been married for 42 years, living with her husband on their farm in Bredasdorp, where she’s a third-generation farmer. She cherishes time with her loved ones, enjoys camping and travel, and is a passionate people person. Lorraine is a breast cancer survivor and joined Cancervive in 2013. She finds inspiration in the group’s camaraderie and shared purpose.

Lientjie van Niekerk is the Technical Manager at Thuto, where she is dedicated to ensuring that cancer education reaches those who need it most. Inspired by the invaluable work of Cancervive, Lientjie is focused on enhancing the Thuto Cancer Chatbot to extend its reach to thousands more. Alongside her professional role, she is pursuing an art counselling course to further support emotional health and well-being. An avid motorbike rider, Lientjie completed her first Cancervive Flagship Ride last year. She is passionate about spreading the message that early detection can save lives.

Siphephile Masondo has recently been officially appointed as Set-up Coordinator and Thuto Ambassador at Cancervive. A young and dynamic individual, Siphephile’s journey with cancer began at a young age when his mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. While new to this official role, he is no stranger to Cancervive, having been part of the set-up team for the past three years. Siphephile’s personal connection to cancer fuels his dedication to supporting and educating others through Cancervive’s initiatives.

A dedicated member of the Cancervive family since 2016, Carla cannot imagine her life without this movement. For her, cancer awareness and education are not just initiatives but a central part of her daily life. Carla brings years of experience and a deep commitment to the cause, finding purpose in reaching communities with life-saving information. Her long-standing involvement reflects her passion for the Cancervive mission and her dedication to celebrating life through advocacy.

Charmainé is a resilient breast cancer survivor committed to inspiring hope in others facing their own battles. Having undergone a double mastectomy, she intimately understands the emotional and physical challenges of a diagnosis. Charmainé’s mission is to be a living testament that there is fulfillment and hope after cancer. By sharing her story of strength and survival, she aims to provide the encouragement and support necessary to help others navigate their own journeys with courage.

Chelton, a senior manager and lover of the outdoors, became a dedicated supporter of Cancervive to combat cancer. Motivated by the resilience of cancer fighters, he strives to provide empathy, encouragement, and resources for a meaningful impact. Through his involvement, Chelton gains profound insight into the struggles of those touched by cancer and recognizes the invaluable role of supportive communities.

Cornelia, a veteran of the property industry, has always found her greatest passion in helping others. When her life partner was diagnosed with breast cancer, her world was turned upside down, sparking a desire to do more. She joined Cancervive to support both survivors and the often-overlooked network of supporters. Cornelia believes that her experience as a caregiver allows her to make a unique difference, and she is eager to start this chapter of advocacy and community strength.

Cynthia joined Cancervive as a survivor whose spirit remained unbroken despite the life-changing impact of cancer. Through her journey, she discovered a new sense of resilience and the transformative power of shared stories. Cancervive provides Cynthia with a platform to turn her pain into purpose, inspiring hope in others walking a similar path. For her, survivorship is a celebration of every courageous step forward, empowering a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Damion Bracks is 26 years old. His reason for joining Cancervive is to be part of something bigger, as he believes this is more than just volunteering—it’s being part of a movement. A movement that seeks to provide hope, comfort, and support to those affected by cancer. By joining Cancervive, Damion is able to be part of a community dedicated to making a difference, while also having the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, develop new skills, and be part of something truly special.

Denise is a courageous two-time cancer survivor whose journey began with an initial diagnosis in 2019. After reaching remission in 2021, she faced a recurrence in early 2024. Despite the physical toll of treatment, Denise’s unwavering faith and positive attitude have been her guiding lights. She believes that helping others gives her a profound sense of purpose and is dedicated to living the life intended for her, sharing her story of resilience and grace.

Dirk is the Head of Market Development for Africa at Absa Vehicle Finance. A sports enthusiast and traveler, Dirk is a survivor of Stage 4 follicular lymphoma and bone marrow cancer. After multiple rounds of chemo, radiation, and a bone marrow transplant, he joined Cancervive inspired by Janie du Plessis’ story. Dirk shares his journey to raise awareness and support others.

Indrin brings a unique and vital perspective to Cancervive as the husband and supporter of a two-time breast cancer survivor. Having navigated the shock and worry of a family diagnosis, Indrin understands firsthand that the cancer journey is one shared by the whole family. Now celebrating his wife’s remission, he is passionate about offering empathy and guidance to other families. He stands as a pillar of support, dedicated to making sure no one walks this path alone.

Keamohetsoe joined Cancervive because she believes that no one should ever have to face cancer alone. Driven by the loss of loved ones and a realization that many lack vital knowledge about the disease, she offers compassion, encouragement, and practical support to families in need. Keamohetsoe is passionate about giving back to her community and making a meaningful difference by standing together with others to raise awareness and bring hope to those navigating challenging times.

Lawrence Herbert was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in May 2024 and completed six months of chemotherapy, which ended in January 2025. His reason for becoming involved with Cancervive is to raise awareness about cancer while also challenging himself in the firm belief that he is not defined by his diagnosis. Lawrence is determined to take ownership of his condition and pave his own survival journey ahead, inspiring others along the way. Through his involvement, he hopes to contribute to the fight against cancer and offer hope to those facing similar challenges.

Mapule is a proud supporter of Cancervive, driven by the firm belief that education and awareness are the keys to saving lives. She is dedicated to the mission of spreading life-saving information, acting as a voice for prevention and early detection. Mapule’s commitment to the cause is fueled by her passion for community well-being, and she stands as a dedicated advocate for the power of knowledge in the fight against cancer.

Leandri Meiring-Botha, a Capetonian is an Examiner of Motor Vehicles with a passion for woodworking. After her mother’s cancer diagnosis, Leandri found purpose in supporting Cancervive, hoping to help others navigate similar challenges. Through her involvement, she has learned patience and formed meaningful friendships within the Cancervive community.

Born and raised in Johannesburg, Nolukhanyo is passionate about community projects, especially supporting young girls in challenging situations and addressing unemployment in her township. Diagnosed during the COVID-19 pandemic, her journey with cancer was transformative, supported by faith and family. Inspired by the impactful work of the Cancervive community, she now advocates for cancer awareness, embracing each day with gratitude and empathy.

Sandile Nkosi found purpose in educating others about cancer awareness after losing his mother to the disease. His commitment to Cancervive stems from a deep-seated belief in the power of early detection to save lives. Through his efforts, Sandile aims to educate not only his community but also audiences beyond, emphasising the critical importance of awareness and timely intervention in combating cancer.

Sanette has seen firsthand the devastating impact of cancer, having lost both her parents, as well as family and friends, to the disease. This has shaped her perspective on life’s fragility, and even with so much personal experience, she knows how fear and uncertainty can cloud judgment. As an avid adventure rider, she often travels to rural areas where access to healthcare and information is limited. Through Cancervive, she wants to help change that—bringing cancer education and awareness to the people who need it most.

After losing her mother to cancer, Sonnette faced her own breast cancer diagnosis in 2022 with a positive mind and a determination to survive. Having won her battle through faith and the care of her partner, she joined Cancervive to give back to the community that supported her. Sonnette is dedicated to supporting others through their struggles, sharing her story of victory to inspire hope and remind every warrior that they are not alone in their journey.

Thami, an admin clerk hailing from Soweto, embodies curiosity and adventure, constantly seeking new knowledge and exploring South Africa’s diverse landscapes. Joining Cancervive, he passionately shares his journey to raise cancer awareness, finding solace in supporting others and gaining confidence through sharing experiences. His dedication to offering support to those in need reflects his compassionate spirit and commitment to making a difference.

Tshegofatso’s connection to cancer is deeply personal, having lost her grandfather and father to breast cancer before facing her own stage 3 diagnosis. In honor of her father’s memory, she has made it her mission to break the silence surrounding the disease. Tshegofatso is a passionate educator, dedicated to sharing her family’s history to ensure others are informed and empowered. She turns her personal pain into a powerful purpose, advocating for awareness in every community she reaches.

Victoria is a stage 4 breast cancer survivor and a passionate advocate for awareness and education. Having navigated a diagnosis that came without warning, she emphasizes the critical importance of regular check-ups. Through Cancervive, Victoria has found a community of healing and “sisters” who share her mission. Her journey is one of profound resilience, and she uses her voice to urge fellow warriors to persevere, proving that hope can flourish even in the face of adversity.

Wilma is a breast cancer survivor in her fourth year of remission, celebrating life with a renewed sense of purpose. As a healthcare practitioner and educator, she was inspired to join Cancervive to bring a message of hope and clinical knowledge to underserved communities. Wilma is a firm believer in the power of self-screening and early detection. She uses her professional background to ignite action, urging everyone to know their bodies and seek regular screenings to save lives.

Wilma Maritz a resilient farmer from Vryburg, raised near Tosca, Northwest, is passionate about people and cultures. A stage 3 breast cancer survivor, she underwent a double mastectomy and chemotherapy. Wilma is dedicated to raising awareness for early detection and inspiring others with her story of hope and resilience, proving that cancer is just a chapter, not the whole story.