At Morning Cruise on Bush Radio, we had the pleasure of speaking with, founder of The Character Company, an organization dedicated to mentoring young boys growing up without fathers. Jaco is not only committed to transforming lives through mentorship but is also taking on an incredible physical challenge to support the cause. For the second time, he’ll be running the Two Oceans Half Marathon to raise R118,800 for the 33 boys in the Western Cape program.
The Character Company is a long-term mentorship program designed to provide young boys with positive male role models. The statistics on fatherlessness in South Africa are alarming, with only about 4% of boys growing up with their biological fathers. Jaco emphasized that growing up without a father can have a lasting impact on boys’ development, leading to low self-esteem, identity struggles, and difficulty forming healthy relationships. Through mentorship, The Character Company aims to provide stability, support, and guidance to help these boys grow into good men.
Beyond mentorship, The Character Company incorporates outdoor activities and nature-based experiences into its programs. Jaco highlighted the importance of getting boys outside, away from screens and social media, to help them develop resilience, confidence, and a sense of responsibility for their environment. By exposing them to nature and physical challenges, the organization fosters personal growth and emotional well-being.
Jaco’s decision to run the Two Oceans Half Marathon is both a personal challenge and a statement of dedication to the boys in the program. He wants them to know that they are worth the effort, that someone cares enough to go the extra mile—literally—for them. Training for a half marathon is no small feat, but Jaco sees it as a metaphor for life: with perseverance, support, and belief in oneself, anything is possible. His goal of raising R118,800 will ensure that 33 boys in the Western Cape have access to mentorship for a full year.
The Character Company is making a tangible impact, but as Jaco pointed out, they can’t do it alone. Supporting the initiative can take many forms, whether by becoming a mentor, making a financial contribution, or simply spreading the word. For as little as R300 per month, someone can sponsor a boy in the program, giving them access to mentorship, camps, and invaluable life lessons. You can visit their website on: https://www.thecharactercompany.co.za/
Jaco’s dedication to the cause and his commitment to making a difference in these boys' lives is truly inspiring. If you’d like to support The Character Company and help Jaco reach his fundraising goal, visit their website or contribute to the Two Oceans Marathon campaign. Every step he takes in the marathon is a step toward a brighter future for these young boys.
Presenters: Khusi & Camille
Written by: Camille
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