Mandela Day came a day early for dozens of young athletes in Rabie Ridge as the Ubuntu Rabie Ridge Foundation and local internet service provider Ikeja Wireless joined forces to invest in youth through sport and community upliftment.

The organisations dedicated more than the symbolic 67 minutes of service on July 17, donating winter essentials and sportswear to players of Rabie Ridge Brave Lions Football Club and the Rabie Ridge Cricket Academy Tigers.

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Brave Lions players received beanies and soccer shorts, while the Tigers were presented with warm beanies to help them through the winter season.

The celebrations also featured an exhibition match between the Brave Lions’ U15 and U17 teams. Foundation chairperson George Henry said the day’s activities reflected the organisation’s commitment to creating opportunities for young people.

“The match was more than just football. It was a reminder that when opportunities are created for young people, they become active, inspired and stay away from the streets,” said Henry.

“A very special thank you goes to our incredible partner, Ikeja, for standing alongside us and helping make this day such a success. Your generosity, support and commitment to our community made Mandela Day even more memorable.”

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He said the foundation remains committed to empowering young people through sport, education, and community development but appealed for additional support from businesses and donors.

“Because of the different challenges facing our community and the different groups we support, our vision is to reach every household and every child in need. We call on more donors and partners to come forward and help us make days like this possible.”

Tigers head coach Peter MacPherson welcomed the donation, describing it as a meaningful investment in the future of local youngsters.

“We are truly humbled by this generosity,” he said. “Our mission is to develop grassroots talent across different sporting codes, and today’s gesture shows that we have partners who share our vision of uplifting young people through sport.”

“These beanies won’t only be used at training, but also at school. Many of our parents are struggling with the current economic situation, so this support means a great deal to children from disadvantaged homes.”

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Brave Lions chairperson Stanley Mmotla said the initiative demonstrated the importance of partnerships that benefit young people.

“We would like to thank Ikeja and the Ubuntu Rabie Ridge Foundation for celebrating Mandela Day with us. The soccer shorts and beanies will help keep our players warm during winter, and it was encouraging to see so many young people come together for today’s programme,” he said.

Ikeja Wireless marketing coordinator Thandiwe Ngcobo said giving back to communities forms part of the company’s values.

“Today we are supporting the Ubuntu Rabie Ridge Foundation because we believe in giving back to the communities we serve,” she said.

“We are not only here to provide Wi-Fi; we want to be part of building stronger communities.

In a time when so many young people are exposed to drugs and other social challenges. It is encouraging to see children spending their school holidays playing sport, staying active and building positive futures.”

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