For nearly four decades, Reach For A Dream has been proving that hope can be just as powerful as medicine. Since its founding in 1988, the organisation has brought moments of joy to children facing life-threatening illnesses, making more than 30,000 dreams come true across South Africa.
The milestone was celebrated during the foundation’s 38th birthday at the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, where children, families, healthcare professionals, volunteers and supporters gathered to honour an organisation whose mission continues to transform lives through hope.
A Legacy Built on Hope
From meeting sporting heroes and celebrities to receiving a long-awaited gift or experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Reach For A Dream has spent the past 38 years creating unforgettable memories for children during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
Since 1988, the foundation has fulfilled over 30,000 dreams, reminding children and their families that hope, joy and possibility can exist alongside medical treatment.
Today, the organisation continues to make an average of seven dreams come true every day across South Africa.
A Powerful Story of Dreams Becoming Reality
One of the most emotional moments during the celebration came from Dr Nkuli Boikhutso, Chief Executive Officer of Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, whose own life was touched by Reach For A Dream many years ago.
As a cancer patient in 1997, Dr Boikhutso became one of the foundation’s dream recipients.
Reflecting on that experience, she shared how receiving her dream changed her outlook on life.
“This day is important for me because in 1997, I was a recipient of a dream from Reach For A Dream. I was more than a cancer patient; they gave me a new perspective of life. My dream come true gave me hope and today, I’m the CEO of a children’s hospital.”
She also congratulated the organisation on its remarkable journey.
“Thank you for choosing us to celebrate your birthday, congratulations on 38 years of making sure kids’ dreams come true.”
Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact a single act of kindness can have on a child’s future.
Celebrating Nearly Four Decades of Purpose
Reach For A Dream Chief Executive Officer Julia Sotirianakos paid tribute to the many people who have supported the organisation throughout its journey.
“We are almost four decades old. We couldn’t have done it without the love and support of all our hospitals, staff and volunteers across the country. We do this because of our beautiful children and every day, we are reminded of our purpose.”
The celebration recognised the dedication of healthcare workers, volunteers, donors and partners who continue helping the organisation fulfil dreams for children nationwide.
A Birthday Filled With Smiles
The birthday celebration reflected the joy that Reach For A Dream strives to create every day.
Children and families enjoyed a variety of interactive entertainment, including magic performances by Laughter Heroes, Uncle Black Jack, Themba Mathabela and Siya Makhubu.
The festivities also featured face painting, a joyful cake-cutting ceremony filled with singing, doughnut decorating activities and a shared lunch, creating an afternoon focused entirely on laughter, creativity and togetherness.
Helping Create More Dreams
While the organisation celebrates an incredible milestone of more than 30,000 fulfilled dreams, its mission continues every single day.
Reach For A Dream currently fulfils approximately seven dreams daily, offering hope and unforgettable experiences to children living with life-threatening illnesses across South Africa.
The foundation encourages South Africans to support its work by making a donation, helping ensure that even more children can experience the joy and inspiration that a dream fulfilled can bring.
Nearly four decades after opening its doors, Reach For A Dream remains committed to giving children something priceless during difficult times—hope for tomorrow and memories that last a lifetime.
