While Jason Vanporppal’s skateboard journey across Africa captured global attention, many South Africans found themselves equally inspired by Jerome Joel, the man who helped him reach Cape Town. Now, thanks to an outpouring of public support and a response from Volvo South Africa, Jerome has received a surprise of his own.
Johannesburg, South Africa (09 June 2026) – Alongside a skateboarder rolling across Africa, another hero unexpectedly rolled into the hearts of South Africans too.
By now, most of the country knows the story of Jason Vanporppal, the American skateboarder who travelled more than 5,500 kilometres across Africa to raise awareness and support for a permanent skatepark in Uganda. His arrival in Cape Town after 106 days on the road united South Africans from every corner of the country. Communities lined roads to cheer him on, schools let children out of class to wave at him, families stood with homemade signs and complete strangers offered food, accommodation and encouragement.
But while Jason’s story captured headlines, another one was unfolding alongside it.
When Jason entered South Africa, the final stretch of his journey looked very different from what had originally been planned. The two Ugandan skateboarders who had hoped to accompany him were unable to secure visas, forcing a last-minute change. The Winnie Mabaso Foundation stepped in to help, providing a Volvo support vehicle and sending one of its team members, Jerome Joel, to escort Jason safely from Johannesburg to Cape Town.
At first, Jerome was simply there to assist with logistics and safety. But over the following 16 days, he became one of the most beloved figures of the entire adventure. Through Jason’s daily videos, South Africans got to know a man whose kindness seemed effortless. He offered encouragement and looked after Jason along the South African leg of his journey. It wasn’t long before social media began filling with comments about Jerome. Many described him as a father figure. Others said he embodied the very best of South Africa. While Jason continued pushing forward on his skateboard, Jerome became a symbol of the support and humanity that helped carry the journey across the finish line.
Despite spending weeks helping Jason complete one of the most remarkable adventures South Africa had witnessed in years, Jerome did not own a personal vehicle of his own. When Jason learned this, he turned to the community that had supported him throughout Africa and asked for their help one more time. He encouraged followers to tag Volvo South Africa online and shine a spotlight on Jerome’s story. The response was immediate. Thousands of South Africans rallied behind the call, leaving comments and asking the vehicle manufacturer to recognise the man who had become such an important part of the journey.
Yesterday, that support turned into something very real.
Jason shared videos showing Jerome receiving a brand-new Volvo as part of an ambassador partnership with Volvo South Africa. According to Jason, Jerome will have the vehicle for an initial 4-month period, after which the arrangement will be reviewed, with the possibility of extending it further.
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Eunice High School Packs 114 Santa Shoeboxes to Spread Festive CheerAs Jerome received the keys, he admitted he was shaking with excitement. After weeks of watching him give so much of himself to support someone else, South Africans finally got to witness a moment dedicated entirely to him.
“Great surprise, Jason Vanporppal, well orchestrated. ❤️ Jerome, this opportunity has the potential to reach so many people. Together with Volvo, you now have the tools to promote the spirit of Ubuntu. “Get some!” 🎖️💪🏻”
“This is so heart felt
“
“They really could have given it to him as a gift and not only let him ‘borrow’ it for four months. Anyway, hope it brings him lots of new beginnings and blessings 🙌.”
“If we all follow Jerome so he can make content… Hopefully he gets to keep the car.”
“We will support him to keep the car longer #Volvo give him the car 🇿🇦🇿🇦”
The story has come full circle. Jerome never asked for recognition… he did his job and treated people with kindness, and South Africans noticed.
Whether the Volvo remains with Jerome for four months or much longer, one thing is already clear: a man who spent weeks helping someone else achieve their dream has inspired a country to get behind his.
We love you South Africa!
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