The children are in cricket under the guidance of their coach, Patrick Mabasa, a teacher by profession.

“Cricket is a calling for me and seeing kids interact through the game, makes my heart smile.

Being part of the KFC Mini-Cricket programme, I simply wanted to encourage children to be active members of the community through sport – one which they’ve grown to love immensely, and which has taken a central role in their lives,” said Mabasa of the root of his passion for the game.

When asked why coaching is important for developing kids, he said that the lessons learnt both on and off the field of play helps develop tolerance and respect in children and equips them better to recognise and appreciate the differences and similarities between themselves and others.

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“This, in effect, encourages social cohesion that can help alleviate some of the harms kids are exposed to in their everyday lives at schools and in their communities,” he said.

Driven by his love for teaching and imparting important life lessons, Mabasa thought it would be great to create a space for children who play KFC Mini-Cricket to have a library in which they can cultivate their knowledge and learn without hindrances.

It’s this ability to encourage them to become all-rounders, beyond cricketing, that sets Mabasa apart.

With the children gathering diligently after school, Mashaba realised education and sport play a mutually beneficial role in enabling these children to grow into members of society who will make meaningful contributions.

The seamless incorporation of sport and education is a demonstration of how targeted sponsorships in local communities can drive authentic engagement that directly benefits the people – with benefits to the brand as a welcome by-product.

KFC remains committed to continuing to make a difference and noteworthy impact in the lives of children throughout South Africa.