When Alex Black Poison’s U13 and U17 players received their school shoes on October 29, their faces gleamed with pride.

The leather and laces gift symbolised dignity, encouragement, and hope. For some, the shoes felt like an early Christmas present. For others, they were a carefully chosen gesture to wish learners well in their final examinations. Either way, the moment carried weight far beyond its material value.

The initiative was made possible through the Joey De Tenor Foundation, working hand‑in‑hand with La Carne Restaurant, and marking the beginning of a great partnership between the Joey De Tenor Foundation and Alex Black Poison.

Read more: Ladles of Love remembers Alexandra’s destitute

“Not everyone gets the opportunity to work with such impactful organisations in our townships,” coach Phathutshedzo Maseko said. “We feel truly honoured.”

Maseko said they are laying the foundation for a safe and supportive environment, where players can access essentials, such as school shoes, uniforms, and proper training equipment.

For many of these young athletes, such support was needed, helping them to focus on both their education and their passion for football.

Opera performance artist Madumetja ‘Joey De Tenor’ Mabusela, who founded the foundation, said he drew inspiration from his own childhood. “I used to go to school without shoes, because my parents could not afford to buy me a new pair. I told myself that one day I was going to make a difference in a child’s life.”

Years later, he has fulfilled that promise. Through his foundation, Joey De Tenor promotes education, nurtures self‑belief, and motivates childr

His vision is holistic: To blend the arts, education, and sport into a platform for empowerment.

These efforts follow the official announcement of the partnership between the Joey De Tenor Foundation and Alex Black Poison FC at the Alex Safe Hub on October 21. Different stakeholders gathered to encourage the young footballers, vowing to support them going forward.

Also read: From Alexandra to Cape Town, rugby dreams take flight

At the time, Joey De Tenor explained that he was driven to become more than just a musician. He wanted to give not only through his art, but also through his time, his encouragement, and by building partnerships with organisations willing to share vital resources for the benefit of young people.

The subsequent acts of selfless giving show that his vision is no longer just an aspiration; it is rapidly taking root, shaping a legacy of community upliftment.

Now, driven by their common vision to empower Alexandra’s young football stars, both the foundation and the football club look forward to building a strong, lasting relationship.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!