Meet the NSRI’s face-to-face fundraising team

In shopping centres and various other venues across the country, you might have noticed a friendly face stopping to say hello, a banner catching your eye, or someone asking if you’ve heard of the NSRI.

These are the NSRI’s Face-to-Face Fundraising teams, the people who take the time to speak with strangers, explain the mission, and invite them to support lifesaving work. 

In Johannesburg, the team is led by manager Noni Dudeni, alongside Asi Mashalaba, Jerry Mokoa, and Robert Gopo. In Cape Town, the team is led by manager Fazlin Jaffer, alongside Martie Larkan and Yaghya Gasant. Together, they form the front line of engagement, introducing the NSRI to people who may never have encountered it before.

“A typical day for us starts with setting up our stand and banners at a pre-arranged location, often malls and centres, and getting ready to engage with the public,” explains Project Manager, Annie Britz. “We make sure all materials are in place, from donation forms to educational information, and that our branding is clearly visible.” 

From there, the teams “approach people who pass by, introduce the NSRI and have conversations about our mission and the impact of donations.”

The teams are trained first and foremost to be brand ambassadors. They are also respectful and attentive. “We make eye contact, smile, ask people how they are and introduce our organisation,” says Annie. She adds that it is important to be mindful of body language and verbal cues of those they encounter.

The goal is to have meaningful conversations that can lead to extraordinary moments of connection. “When someone decides to donate, it’s a moment of connection and shared purpose. The smiles, the gratitude and the sense of community make our job fulfilling,” Annie reflects.

Of course, there are challenges. “One of the toughest is approaching people who are often focused on personal tasks or errands and might not be receptive to our message. People would want to donate, but due to financial challenges, cannot support our good cause.” 

Even so, every conversation is seen as an opportunity to educate, whether about Survival Swimming programmes, school talks, or the simple fact that the NSRI is not government-funded.

For the Johannesburg team, there’s often the common question of “why are you inland?” Their answer is a reminder that drowning prevention and lifesaving are not confined to the coast, rivers, dams, and pools pose risks everywhere.

Despite the obstacles, the teams remain deeply motivated. “Being a part of this team is incredibly meaningful to all of us,” Annie says. “We work together, support each other and lift each other up. It is exciting to save lives and have a fruitful interface with people from different backgrounds in convincing them to partake in this impactful cause.”

The next time you see their stand, stop by and say hello. Behind the branded banners are real people who believe every life saved is worth the conversation.