A YEAR
IN REVIEW
2025

SA20 Cricket

Driving social impact through strategic partnership

The 2025 season marked the third successful year of Laureus Sport for Good South Africa’s partnership with SA20 as the tournament’s Social Impact Partner. Building on the strong foundations created during the first two seasons, the partnership continued to create meaningful opportunities for young people while demonstrating the transformational power of sport to change lives.

Across Season 3, the partnership has delivered significant value to Laureus, both through financial support and beneficiary engagement. Over 750 Laureus beneficiaries attended SA20 matches across the country, gaining access to elite sporting environments, inspiring role models and extraordinary experiences. Financial contributions of R630,000 in Season 3 were added to Laureus’ broader funding pool, supporting a range of Sport for Good programmes, including cricket-focused initiatives such as Johannesburg Cricket Club, United Through Sport, The Benjamin Project and JP21.

Building on Season 2 momentum, Season 3 introduced new opportunities focused on development, employability and stronger engagement. Through the LaureusYES programme, young people secured valuable work experience placements linked to the tournament, while a memorable visit by the Sunrisers Eastern Cape squad to the United Through Sport programme provided beneficiaries with direct access to professional athletes and inspiring role models. Beneficiaries once again played a prominent role during the Final as flag bearers and by walking out with the team captains, strengthening their connection to the game and understanding that sport can create pathways to opportunity.

The SA20 partnership continues to demonstrate the value of collaboration between sport and social impact. By combining financial support with meaningful, on-the-ground experiences, the partnership has strengthened Laureus’ ability to reach young people, elevate programme visibility and bring the Sport for Good mission to life in communities across South Africa.

Cape Town Cycle Tour

Creating sport for good momentum

On 8 March 2025, Laureus Sport for Good South Africa hosted a Cycle Tour leg-loosener ride through the iconic streets of the Atlantic Seaboard, with generous support from Bootlegger Coffee Company and RMB. The morning culminated in a networking breakfast where Laureus ambassadors added significant value with their presence.

Sporting icons Deshun Deysel, Bryan Habana, Grant Lottering, JP Duminy and Corne Krige reinforced the values of perseverance, leadership and the power of sport to inspire positive change.

Beyond the ride itself, the breakfast provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships with existing stakeholders and welcome new supporters to the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa mission.

Ambassadors Summit

The power of the Laureus Network

Designed to strengthen relationships and align around a shared vision for impact, the Laureus Ambassador Summit began with a stakeholder engagement dinner on 12 March. The evening offered meaningful connection and reflection, setting the tone for the days ahead. Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa Chairperson Bryan Habana welcomed guests, followed by inspiring remarks from Ambassador Andile Dlamini and LaureusYES graduate Cleo Tebatso.

The following day, ambassadors gathered for a dedicated summit session facilitated by Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa Deputy Chairperson Deshun Deysel. The programme offered a comprehensive look at the global and local impact of the Laureus movement.

Contributions from the global Laureus network included addresses from Ned Wills and Laureus Sport for Good Chairman Sean Fitzpatrick, strengthening the organisation’s collective vision and international reach. Bryan Habana shared updates on Laureus South Africa’s progress and outlined ambitions for the future, while a special video message from Zelda la Grange offered powerful reflections on leadership, service and impact.

The session also highlighted the game-changing outcomes of Sport for Good programmes through Sheri Errington’s presentation on the Laureus Theory of Change. This was followed by an intensely personal account from LaureusYES graduate Jen Matibi, whose story served as a compelling reminder of the life-changing opportunities sport can create. Acclaimed storyteller and keynote speaker Nick Dreyer brought the day to life with an authentic South African narrative.  His message reinforced the importance of resilience, connection and purpose.

The summit concluded with an open discussion, allowing ambassadors to engage, share their insights and explore how they can continue to contribute to the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa mission as ambassadors.

The summit concluded on 14 March with a visit to Fight with Insight, one of Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa’s partner programmes. Guests experienced the programme with a guided tour, an interactive boxing session and refreshments from the Fight with Insight Kitchen.

JPMorganChase Corporate Challenge Johannesburg

A night to remember

The JPMorganChase Corporate Challenge saw 13,000 runners and joggers from 227 companies take to the streets of Johannesburg’s northern suburbs, bringing together employees from leading organisations for a 5.6km team-based race.

The race encourages healthy workplace competition and marks the start of the global Corporate Challenge series. The JPMorganChase Corporate Challenge also serves as a vehicle for social impact and each year demonstrates this commitment with a significant donation to Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa.

Laureus ambassadors welcomed the corporate athletes at the finish line to display their gratitude for this remarkable partnership. Those in attendance included former South African rugby captain Corne Krige, Dumisani Chauke , former South African Netball captain, Desiree Ellis, Banyana Banyana coach, Deshun Deysel, High Altitude Mountaineer, Saray Khumalo, Expedition Leader and Mountaineer, Akani Simbine, an Olympic athlete and Natalie du Toit, Olympic and Paralympic swimmer.

Accepting the donation, the Chairman of Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa, Bryan Habana, thanked the JPMorganChase Corporate Challenge and every participating company for their generosity and commitment to the Foundation’s vision. He emphasised that the event is a true reflection of the Foundation’s ethos of “Sport for Good,” where enjoyment, participation and impact come together.

The MCT Foundation Golf Classic, Houghton

A day out on the fairways

The MCT Foundation Golf Classic, presented in partnership with the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, brought together corporate partners, supporters and golf enthusiasts for a day that celebrated both sport and purpose. Hosted at the pristine Houghton Golf Club, the event attracted strong participation and generated an atmosphere of camaraderie, enjoyment and a sense of making a difference, while creating sustainable support for programmes that positively impact young people and communities.

The MCT Foundation is the anchor funder of the LaureusELECT Programme in Limpopo, where learners in grades 10 – 12 at Jack Lavhengwa Secondary are equipped with the skills, confidence and opportunities needed to pursue further education and meaningful careers.

Events such as the MCT Foundation Golf Classic, supported by the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, not only raise valuable funds but also demonstrate how meaningful partnerships can extend impact beyond programme delivery and mobilise key stakeholders to invest in the next generation.

Laureus World Sports Awards

Memories of Madrid 2025

There are certain moments in sport that stay with you long after the lights dim and the applause fades. The 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid was one of those moments.

As Laureus celebrated its 25th anniversary, the evening brought together athletes, legends, ambassadors and changemakers from around the world. A celebration of extraordinary achievement and values that continue to unite the Laureus movement: resilience, excellence, inclusion and the belief that sport has the power to change lives.

The awards recognised some of the most distinguished performances and stories from across the sporting world. Armand “Mondo” Duplantis was named World Sportsman of the Year, while Simone Biles received the World Sportswoman of the Year Award. Real Madrid celebrated Team of the Year on home soil and young football sensation Lamine Yamal was recognised as Breakthrough of the Year.

The evening also honoured stories of perseverance and inspiration, including Rebeca Andrade’s notable journey, which earned her the Comeback of the Year Award. Tom Pidcock was recognised as Action Sportsperson of the Year and Para-swimmer Jiang Yuyan’s achievements highlighted the persistent growth and visibility of disability sport on the global stage.

Beyond the competitive achievements, the ceremony paid tribute to individuals whose influence goes far beyond results. Rafael Nadal received the Sporting Inspiration Award, recognising a career built on determination, humility and excellence. Surfing icon Kelly Slater was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating decades of contribution to his sport.

Perhaps most importantly, the evening reaffirmed the purpose at the heart of Laureus. Kick4Life, a football-based social programme creating opportunities for young people, received the Laureus Sport for Good Award.

For the Laureus South Africa delegation, Madrid was an opportunity to reconnect with the global Laureus family and celebrate as Laureus Sport for Good marks 25 years of celebrating sporting excellence and social impact.

We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the people of Madrid, the Comunidad de Madrid and the Ayuntamiento de Madrid, whose hospitality and support helped create a celebration that will be remembered long after the final applause.

On to the next 25 years!

Off The Pitch Breakfast, The Oval, London

Taking the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa global in a landmark event at Lord’s

June 2025 marked a key milestone for Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa as our organisation successfully hosted its first international fundraising and stakeholder engagement event, Off the Pitch, in London.

Held on 9 June ahead of the ICC World Test Championship Final between South Africa and Australia at Lord’s Cricket Ground, the brunch brought together sporting legends, business leaders, partners and supporters for an engaging morning of conversation, connection and purpose. The event was exceptionally well-received by attendees and showcased the growing reach and influence of the Laureus Sport for Good movement beyond South Africa.

Hosted by Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa Chairperson Bryan Habana and supported by Laureus World Sports Academy Chairperson Sean Fitzpatrick, the event featured a thought-provoking panel discussion moderated by renowned broadcaster and South African ambassador, Dan Nicholl. The panel brought together respected cricketing voices, including Laureus Ambassador JP Duminy, South African cricket legend Shaun Pollock, and former England captain Michael Vaughan, who shared their perspectives on leadership, performance, fortitude and the impact of sport.

The event attracted strong support from a diverse group of corporate supporters and raised just under R90,000 in aid of Laureus Sport for Good South Africa’s mission to use sport as a tool for positive social change.

We acknowledge the support and involvement of our colleagues from the Laureus Global Office in ensuring the event’s success.

Funders Dialogue and Incubation Masterclass

Learning, connecting and strengthening the sports-for-development sector 

On 18 June, Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa hosted a diverse group of funding partners to explore emerging trends, challenges and opportunities within the not-for-profit sector, in what we would call a Funder Dialogue. The session provided a valuable platform for open exchange, enabling funders to share perspectives on shifting priorities, evolving funding models and the importance of sustained, strategic investment in social impact initiatives.

Building on this momentum, on 19 June, a Sport for Good Masterclass focused on fundraising in the sport-for-development space was delivered. The session provided practical insights and tools to strengthen resource mobilisation strategies, enhance sustainability and increase organisational resilience.

Together, these two engagements captured Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa’s ongoing commitment to building a stronger, more connected sector by creating spaces for dialogue, learning and shared problem-solving. Laureus continues to support the broader social impact ecosystem.

North Coast Corporate Classic with eXp Realty SA

Building an ecosystem with sport and business

The event, convened by the iLembe Chamber of Commerce and newly titled through partnership with eXp Realty South Africa, brought together a dynamic mix of South African sporting icons, business leaders and community stakeholders in celebration of sport’s unique ability to unite and inspire. Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa ambassadors played a prominent role at the relaunch of the North Coast Corporate Classic, hosted at the iconic Zimbali Country Club on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast.

Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa CEO Marlene Coetzee-George and Chairperson Bryan Habana represented the Foundation at the official prize-giving ceremony, underscoring Laureus’ commitment to engaging meaningfully with partners across the sport, business and development sectors. Bryan Habana also featured in an engaging live Q&A session alongside renowned broadcaster Dan Nicholl, placing the Laureus voice and mission at the centre of the day’s conversations and reflections.

As iLembe Chamber CEO Cobus Oelofse reflected, the event was “more than a game of golf, it was a celebration of how sport brings people together, builds relationships and unites communities,” a sentiment closely aligned with the Laureus ethos.

With eXp Realty South Africa confirmed as the title sponsor for the next five years, the Classic signals an expanding ecosystem, one that Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa is proud to be a small part.

Women’s Day Call

Where purpose meets passion

In celebration of Women’s Month, Laureus Sport for Good South Africa hosted a powerful and inspiring online Women’s Day engagement, themed: “Where Purpose Meets Passion”. The session brought together staff, stakeholders, LaureusYES and LaureusELECT programme participants in a shared space designed for storytelling-led engagement.

Led by Laureus Ambassadors Babalwa Latsha and Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp, the online session created a vibrant platform for leaders to share the impact of their lived experience.

Babalwa Latsha, a professional rugby player and the first Black South African woman to play rugby overseas, delivered a compelling keynote while speaking from O.R. Tambo International Airport shortly before departing for the Rugby World Cup. Her reflections centred on the importance of balance, self-awareness and prioritising personal wellbeing while navigating the demands of elite sport. She spoke candidly about the significance of understanding one’s passions as a foundation for shaping purpose and legacy.

Latsha also emphasised the importance of visibility and representation, sharing that her achievements are intended to demonstrate what is possible.
Media personality Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp shared a powerful message on empowerment, identity and collective upliftment. Drawing on her own lived experience growing up in Ravensmead in the Cape Flats, she spoke about overcoming imposter syndrome and the importance of recognising that one’s background does not define one’s potential.

Afrika-Bredenkamp emphasised the importance of women supporting and uplifting one another, particularly within the media and sport spaces. She explained through experience how passion, when aligned with purpose, can become a driving force for impact and leadership.

Where Purpose Meets Passion served as a reminder of the power of lived experience in shaping inclusive, equitable and inspired communities.

The Little Optimist Visit

Charting a course for confidence and growth

Laureus partner programme, The Little Optimist, introduced key stakeholders and partners to their programme methodology in the days leading up to the annual Laureus and Cape Grace Charity Ball. Deputy Chairperson Deshun Deysel and Trustee Alex Boavida were joined by representatives from eXp Realty South Africa for a morning of sailing on the Little Optimist boats.

At its heart, The Little Optimist is grounded in a mission to use sailing as a therapeutic and empowering tool for children from hospitals, safe houses and marginalised communities, creating a safe and structured environment in which young people can build resilience, develop life skills and experience a sense of achievement.

A particularly powerful aspect of the day was witnessing the young leaders’ confidence as they guided the guests and programme beneficiaries with composure on the little boats, reflecting the success of the programme’s skills-transfer strategies.

The visit culminated in the guests witnessing the young beneficiaries graduating from The Little Optimist Programme with their newly acquired communication and water safety skills.

The Laureus & Cape Grace Charity Ball

A Touch of Aqua: An evening of purpose, partnership and possibility

Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa, together with Cape Grace, hosted its annual Charity Ball at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

The evening was hosted by two accomplished media personalities and Laureus Ambassadors, Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp and Dan Nicholl, while Chairman Bryan Habana reflected on the highlights of his sporting journey. Guests enjoyed memorable performances by Tarryn Lamb and Carla Louw, while DJ Ashton ensured a vibrant conclusion to the evening’s celebrations.

The evening’s theme, A Touch of Aqua, shone a spotlight on three remarkable Laureus-supported programmes: I AM WATER, the Roxy Davis Foundation and the 9Miles Project. Guests gained insight into how these organisations use water-based activities to promote inclusion, environmental awareness and personal development while encouraging a deeper connection to the natural world.

An impressive R1.7 million was raised through ticket sales, raffle entries, donations and auction contributions. These funds will directly support Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa’s ongoing work, enabling the organisation to expand its reach, strengthen programme delivery and continue investing in communities where sport can make the greatest difference.

The support of our co-hosts, Cape Grace and our event partners, Mercedes-Benz South Africa, IWC Schaffhausen, Carrol Boyes, The Cape Town International Convention Centre and Inhouse VTM, is invaluable in ensuring the fundraising objectives are met. We acknowledge with gratitude that the success on the night is largely attributed to the support and generous contributions of these partners.

Mental Health Day with Cape Grace

Impactful partnerships are built on investment and shared values

Our individual stories matter because they may be the fuel a fellow colleague needs to persevere. This sentiment underpinned the gathering of Laureus youth leaders with the Cape Grace leadership. Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa hosted an intimate morning with the Cape Grace team.

Jill Benting, who heads up the Laureus Youth Desk, joined forces with Marlin van Sensie from I AM WATER and together they relayed the triumphs and setbacks of their personal stories. In both journeys, the influence of sport, particularly the safe community of supporters it provided, motivated them to build their careers in the development space and to give back to the next generation.

The morning concluded with an inspirational keynote address by Laureus Ambassador Natalie du Toit, who shared reflections on resilience, determination and overcoming adversity. She encouraged those in attendance to embrace perseverance, purpose and self-belief in both their personal and professional journeys.

A networking breakfast provided a fitting conclusion to the event, allowing guests to connect and reflect on Mental Health Day.

ELECT Graduation

A full circle moment celebrating the first LaureusELECT graduating cohort

Learners accompanied by their parents gathered at Macassar High School to celebrate the successful completion of a LaureusELECT year. The graduation ceremony marked the successful completion of the full LaureusELECT programme cycle by learners who had participated from Grades 10 through to Grade 12 and served as a moment of pride and reflection for parents, facilitators and programme partners who have supported the learners throughout their journey.

Tee-Ann Lawrence, a former LaureusYES participant who now serves as a LaureusELECT facilitator, effortlessly navigated the audience through the evening’s proceedings.  The formal certificate handover celebrated each graduating learner for their commitment to personal development and determination to rise above the social challenges plaguing their community. Melissa Wessels, representing MRI, an anchor supporter of the programme, applauded the graduates on their achievement and reassured them of MRI’s ongoing commitment.

A big highlight of the night was the keynote by Mr Mustakim Gierdien, whose remarkable journey from District Six to Antarctica had the audience in awe. He shared that circumstances do not define one’s future and that determination and ambition can open doors to extraordinary opportunities.

Following the formal proceedings, learners, families, facilitators and guests gathered for photographs and memories to reflect on the achievements of the cohort and the collective effort that had brought them to this milestone.

Empowerment Celebration

Building futures

The concept of an annual Empowerment Celebration was initiated by the Laureus team to celebrate the various players in the sport for development ecosystem; the youth for emerging as more focused and empowered leaders and the social impact organisations for embracing ongoing learning in an Incubation Hub to remain agile and relevant in an environment with endless demands.

The celebration, held on 3 November 2025, brought together partners, programme participants, stakeholders and supporters to celebrate the visible gains achieved in the year. Of particular significance at this celebration was the introduction of the newly established partnership with the FirstRand Foundation at Country Patron level.  The atmosphere in the room was electric, with youth roaring with excitement as they listed the range of skills they mastered as LaureusYES protégés. The combination of youthful energy, the acknowledgement of seasoned leadership and the confirmation of continued funding for Laureus into the foreseeable future made for an unforgettable morning of incredible achievements.

The 2025 Laureus YES cohort was awarded certificates for their achievements, with special recognition for top performers through ETA bursaries.  In parallel, the Laureus Incubation Hub awarded Character Company and ActivateHer with a special prize valued at R50 000 to have their organisations’ stories captured in a visually impactful way for media and social media use.

Throughout the event, the presence of key partners, including trustees, ambassadors, programme facilitators and supporters, reinforced the strength and breadth of the Laureus network.

Introducing FirstRand Foundation

A pivotal moment

Thank you, FirstRand Foundation. This partnership represents an important strengthening of Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa’s ability to support a network of programmes united in their vision to make South African communities thrive.

We look forward to leveraging our strong alignment of values, deep passion for driving positive change and our shared determination to achieve meaningful, long-term progress.

Laureus Sport for Good Golf Classic at Pearl Valley

A day of sport

The annual Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa Golf Day at Pearl Valley Golf Estate once again brought together partners, ambassadors and supporters for a memorable day.

Upon arrival, each participant was welcomed with an electric-blue Galvin Green golf shirt and a complimentary bottle of Terra del Capo, before enjoying breakfast, generously sponsored by Mercedes-Benz. The morning set the tone for a day focused on both experience and engagement, with golfers gathering prior to tee-off as a drone captured the assembled field in motion ahead of the shotgun start.

At 11am, players set off into strong winds. On-course activations by Castle Lager, Schweppes and Col’Cacchio contributed to a dynamic atmosphere, ensuring consistent energy across the course.

Following the play, guests reconvened for Glenmorangie welcome drinks before moving into a three-course dinner. The programme featured an insightful Q&A with Laureus Ambassador Babalwa Latsha, who shared reflections on her journey in professional rugby and her experiences leading up to the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, offering guests a powerful perspective on resilience, discipline and leadership.

Morné du Plessis, former Chairperson of the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and one of the fathers of the Laureus movement, was appointed as the first Patron to the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. In celebration of this milestone, the Foundation introduced “The Morné du Plessis Closest to the Pin” award for the men’s and women’s competitions and weaving his legacy into the fabric of the event.

The event concluded with a lively prize-giving, awards ceremony and charity auction, hosted by Laureus Ambassadors Maps Maponyane (MC) and Trustee Iain Banner (auctioneer). Their leadership, alongside the presence of Laureus Ambassadors Schalk Brits, Corné Krige, Graeme Smith, Ryk Neethling and Willie le Roux, as well as Trustee Ray Langa, contributed significantly to the atmosphere and success of the day.

The Pearl Valley Golf Day continues to stand as a key moment on the Laureus calendar, made possible through the unwavering support of long-standing partners and new collaborators.