BackaBuddy drive raises R61,000 for Durban fire-rescue hero Ayakha Godlwana

According to IOL, a BackaBuddy campaign has raised R61,000 in three days for Ayakha Godlwana after he rescued a 74-year-old woman from a fire at a Durban restaurant.

Rescue during Delphi Greek Taverna blaze

According to IOL, Ayakha Godlwana, 32, rescued 74-year-old Doddy Teranes from the Delphi Greek Taverna on September 3, 2026. Godlwana, who works at a coffee shop next to the taverna, was alerted to the fire by colleagues and went to help.

How the rescue unfolded

According to IOL, Godlwana said he soaked himself with water, entered the burning building after three attempts, and could not see through the thick smoke. He sprayed water onto the ceiling so Doddy could find her way. When she came close, he grabbed her hand, put her on his back and walked down the stairs to safety.

Damage and losses

According to IOL, the restaurant and the rooms upstairs were completely gutted by the fire, leaving the family with only the clothes on their backs. IOL reports that the blaze destroyed the family’s possessions, historical documents and pictures, and that they are living with relatives and friends.

Fundraising and recognition

According to IOL, the BackaBuddy campaign titled “A Hero Called Ayakha” was created by Zane Groenewald. Approximately 171 people have donated to the campaign, which had raised R61,000 in three days.

“In a moment when someone desperately needed help, he stepped forward without hesitation and showed us the very best of humanity. What he did was truly heroic, and I hope this campaign gives people the opportunity to thank and celebrate him for it,”

“Whatever is raised belongs to Ayakha, to use however he chooses.”

Both quoted statements above are attributed to Zane Groenewald by IOL.

Award and response

According to IOL, Godlwana received a hero’s award from the KwaZulu‑Natal International Business Association (KIBA) and was emotional when he accepted it.

Campaign purpose

According to IOL, Groenewald said he set up the campaign so people moved by Godlwana’s actions could thank and celebrate him, and that whatever is raised would belong to Godlwana to use as he chooses.