At first glance, Yvette Jacobsz, a Jeffreys Bay local, might seem like an ordinary woman, but she is an unsung hero — someone truly inspiring.
A life of service and strength
Jacobsz has been a dedicated NSRI volunteer since 2018, holding Level 3 medical qualifications and a Class 4 coxswain (skipper) certification.
She is also an NSRI surf rescue swimmer (lifeguard) and a passionate open-water swimmer in her free time.
On March 16, Jacobsz completed her second Bell Buoy Challenge in extremely tough conditions.
Just seven days later, on March 24, she took on an even greater feat — her first Robben Island to Blouberg Crossing.
She completed the challenge in just a swimsuit (skins), braving the icy Atlantic waters with nothing but determination.
Among the 19 swimmers who completed the crossing that day, Jacobsz was the only woman to do it in skins.
She conquered the 7.5km swim in a remarkable two hours and 31 minutes, enduring frigid temperatures.
Swimming for a cause
Jacobsz participated in Die Groot Swem 2025, a swimming event dedicated to raising funds for the INANI Start Well Foundation, which fights against childhood stunting.
According to the Groot Swem website, the swimming event focuses on raising funds to fight against childhood stunting.
The swimmers brave the waves from Robben Island to Blouberg, Cape Town, a 7.5km swim in icy temperatures ranging from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius.
This year, the 19 participating swimmers collectively raised over R1 million for the cause, and there is still time to contribute.
More than just a swim
When asked what the highlight of the swim was for her, Jacobsz said, “Walking out of the ocean, knowing I had ticked two bucket list goals – completing this iconic crossing and doing it for something bigger than myself; making a difference in children’s lives.”
For more information or to contribute to the Groot Swem initiative, visit their website at www.grootswem.co.za.
– ISSUED BY EIDIE JANSE VAN RENSBURG
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