In October 2017, Different.org ran an integrated campaign called “#whatif”, which aimed to empower South Africa’s sporting community to make their training and races contribute towards positive change in our country.

Activists made a difference by selecting one of five beneficiary charities to whom funds raised would be allocated. The charities were HospiceWits, Cotlands, Wildlands, Rhiza Babuyile and Rays of Hope.

People were invited to register as activists on the Different.org portal, which ensured that R100 was instantly allocated their chosen charity. For an ordinary morning run or ride, an activist had the potential to get up to R800 allocated to their chosen non-profit. It was really that easy.

Activists shared their Strava or similar data in each challenge, proving their participation and also inspiring their friends and family to participate and join the movement, thereby raising even more money for the non-profits. All the allocated money went to the non-profits – there were no fees, charges or hidden costs, which is pretty unique in the crowdfunding world.

• Cotlands R72,999
• HospiceWits R17,086
• Rays of Hope R373,922
• Rhiza Babuyile R18,100
• Wildlands R51,799

A total of 1093 activists signed up to Different.org, and a total of R533,906 was allocated to the charities. The top activist raised an amount of R29,800 for Rays of Hope.