13/10/2026
Laerskool Louis Leipoldt’s Sarel Helps Make a Difference in Centurion!
10,000 sit-ups, 24 hours and nearly R60,000 for a good cause!
Christmas Day, 25 December 2025, was not just a day of gifts and celebrations, but also one of incredible determination, perseverance and compassion for others!
Sarel, a learner at Laerskool Louis Leipoldt, joined his father, Iaan van Niekerk, in an extraordinary fundraising challenge in support of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).
The challenge? To complete thousands of sit-ups within 24 hours, with Iaan setting himself the impressive target of 10,000 sit-ups and Sarel aiming for 2,000!
But the pair did not simply reach their goals – they exceeded them! Through determination, hard work and remarkable perseverance, they demonstrated what is possible when working towards something greater than oneself.
The aim of the challenge was to raise funds to support CERT in expanding its emergency response capabilities in Centurion, including the acquisition of an additional emergency response vehicle.
Thanks to the challenge, nearly R60,000 was raised, making a significant contribution towards CERT’s operational expenses.
And now, the fruits of their hard work can truly be seen!
CERT recently received its second sponsored emergency response vehicle in Centurion. This important expansion means that the organisation is now better equipped to assist its community during emergencies.
Although the vehicle itself was made possible through sponsorship, fundraising initiatives such as Sarel and Iaan’s sit-up challenge help cover the daily operational costs required to keep emergency response vehicles on the road and ready to respond.
Behind Sarel’s remarkable achievement lies a deeply touching family connection to CERT.
Sarel is the younger brother of the late Dawid van Niekerk, a former learner at Hoërskool Centurion Woerie - Kampus.
Earlier in 2026, Dawid was also involved in CERT’s disaster relief projects, dedicating his time and energy to supporting communities in need.
The fact that Sarel is now doing his part to support the same organisation makes this achievement even more meaningful.
It is a beautiful example of how a family’s spirit of service and compassion for others continues to live on.
Sarel’s participation proves that you do not have to be big to make a big difference. His willingness to challenge himself physically for the benefit of others is a true example of community spirit.
Laerskool Louis Leipoldt has every reason to be proud of Sarel!
CERT extends its heartfelt gratitude to Sarel and Iaan for their extraordinary effort, dedication and support. Not only did they push beyond their own limits, but they also helped support an organisation that strives every day to save the lives of others.
With Dawid’s earlier involvement in CERT and Sarel’s own remarkable contribution, we are reminded that the greatest legacy often lies in the difference we make in the lives of others.
Well done, Sarel!
You have shown not only that a young hero with a big heart can make a lasting difference, but also that the spirit of compassion and service can live on across generations and within families.
