The Little Bug…
In 
2019, a 1972 Volkswagen Beetle, known as the Boikanyo Bug, embarked on an extraordinary journey from Johannesburg, South Africa, to Romania. This ambitious expedition, covering approximately 14,500 kilometers, was spearheaded by Round Table Golden East 181, a chapter of the Round Table Southern Africa. Their mission was to raise funds for child heart surgeries, offering life-saving procedures to children in need.
The journey began on July 18, 2019, capturing public attention and rallying support for the cause. On this journey the Boikanyo Bug crossed twelve countries including Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Turkey and Bulgaria. Due to ongoing unrest in Sudan, they were forced to change their route plans and the Boikanyo Bug had to board a ship from Eritrea in East Africa, to get to Turkey.
Despite the cha
llenges of such a long trip, the team successfully reached Romania, at the RTI WM 2019 in Brasov on August 24, 2019. The Beetle was auctioned off during the gala. The initiative ultimately raised R2.7 million (approx. €170,000) for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital, funding crucial heart surgeries for young patients.
The Boikanyo Bug’s expedition was more than just a test of endurance for a vintage vehicle—it was a demonstration of how community-driven efforts can make a tangible difference. The support and goodwill generated through this campaign highlighted the power of collective action in transforming lives, proving that even a small car can drive big change.
…With a Big Heart
The Boikanyo Foundation, a registered Non-Profit Organisation, funds life-saving heart surgeries for children in Southern Africa. Gareth Coats, Project Convenor of Round Table Golden East 181, expressed excitement for the Boikanyo Bug’s journey, aiming to fund surgeries and change lives. “We are passionate about this project and have supported the foundation for 13 years,” he said.
Founded by Round Table Golden East 181 and a volunteer heart surgeon at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, the foundation addresses a backlog of 300 children awaiting urgent heart surgery due to facility and staff shortages. While the surgeries are performed pro bono, theatre consumables and post-op nursing care require funding. Co-founder Jonathan Cornes emphasized the importance of fundraising efforts like the Boikanyo Bug adventure, with Round Table raising awareness and funds.
