A simple act of kindness is making a meaningful impact on the lives of young soccer enthusiasts in the Colita area of Estcourt, thanks to the generosity of local businessman Luigi Spano, with the support of community-minded sponsors.

Spano, who frequently travels through the Colita area, noticed young children playing soccer in the streets with great enthusiasm, despite limited resources.

Inspired by the youngsters’ passion for the sport and with the 2026 FIFA World Cup capturing the imagination of football fans around the world, he decided to take action.

“I often see young children playing soccer on the roads, displaying the love and passion they have for the game,” said Spano. “With the 2026 FIFA World Cup taking place, I wanted to help them achieve their dreams and perhaps inspire the next Lionel Messi in the making,” he said with a smile.

To support the young players, Spano bought soccer balls and secured sponsorships from local businesses that share his vision of uplifting communities and investing in the next generation.

Giving back to the community

Reflecting on his motivation, Spano said that helping others brings a sense of fulfilment that money cannot buy.

“I believe that giving to others is a blessing worth more than anything money can buy,” he said. “I am inspired by the words of John F. Kennedy when he said, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country’. These are wise words that encourage all of us to work towards making a better country.”

Spano believes that positive change often begins with small acts of generosity and that everyone has a role to play in building stronger communities.

Turning personal challenges into purpose

Spano’s passion for helping disadvantaged communities is deeply personal. Having struggled with dyslexia and receiving little formal education, he understands the challenges many young people face.

“If I can be a small part of changing the world and making a difference in the lives of the poor, then I will have fulfilled my childhood dream,” he said. “Having had no education myself and battling dyslexia, it often felt like serving a prison sentence for a crime I did not commit.”

Beyond soccer, Spano hopes to inspire the values of humility, perseverance and determination among young people. “Remain humble and remember that as soon as you think someone is better than you, you have already submitted to failure,” he said. “Dreams do come true for those who follow their dreams and never stop dreaming.”

Community support makes a difference

Spano also shared a message of unity and respect for all people, regardless of race or background.

“I hope we can all live the lives we’ve been given and love one another, regardless of skin colour or race, in a world that belongs to all of us.”

He extended his heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors and partners who helped make the initiative possible.

Special thanks to Narrowtex, Mackson’s Supermarket and Legends 7 Studios for their generosity and support. Spano acknowledged Chris Fell (general manager of Narrowtex) and Mackson’s Supermarket for sponsoring the soccer balls, while Legends 7 Studios was thanked for capturing the memorable moments through photography.

Their contributions have helped bring smiles to young faces and renewed hope that dreams, no matter how big, can become reality with the support of a caring community.

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