Inspired by her own experiences of volunteering for worthy causes, Abigail Larsen developed an innovative social media platform that acts as a bridge between those who desperately need help and those eager to generously extend it.
Stellenbosch, South Africa (06 June 2025) – Abigail Larsen possesses a passion for social impact and believes volunteering can transform lives and communities. It is that very belief that inspired her to develop something that could spark a national movement.
Thallo, Abigail’s brainchild, is a social media platform designed to connect young volunteers with causes and charities that need support. It is a creative mix between Instagram and LinkedIn and will also feature a marketplace for charity products and a gamified system that builds social capital.
At 21, the Stellenbosch University (SU) student is building a solution that connects young people directly to the heart of change. While she initially planned to study medicine, Abigail later realised she could also impact people’s lives positively in other ways.
After volunteering with NGOs in India, Rwanda and across South Africa, she saw a growing frustration among young people who wanted to contribute but didn’t know where to begin.
“There’s a gap between individuals who want to make a difference in the world and organisations who need skilled volunteers,” she notes.
That’s where the seed for Thallo was planted and took root when she entered a global social entrepreneurship competition, the Hult Prize Challenge. Here, participants were tasked with building a business that addresses one of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
According to SU, Larsen and her development team recently presented their concept for Thallo in Johannesburg as part of the national round of the Hult Prize Challenge, and they’re now awaiting news about funding for their project.
By offering a dedicated space where volunteering opportunities are visible and searchable, she believes Thallo will make it easier for people to become involved.
“This could transform not only South Africa, but also mobilise our generation for real, sustainable impact. Whether people want to fight human trafficking, volunteer at an animal shelter, or support upliftment programmes for women, the app offers tailored pathways to action. People want to be part of something bigger than themselves,” Larsen tells SU.
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Sources: Stellenbosch University
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