Roodepoort Sports Academy receive backing from giant renewable energy company

Roodepoort Sports Academy (RSA) received a much-needed boost when a renewable giant extended a charitable hand. Siemens Energy took the first steps of what both parties hoped will be a long and fruitful collaboration of community development when they donated kits to the registered non-profit.

RSA run soccer and netball sessions for boys and girls from the Roodepoort CBD and surrounding areas while attempting to supplement their educational and nutritional needs.

In addition to the kit handover, Siemens Energy brought 12 employees to cook and serve hamburgers to the children of RSA.

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“Being a renewable energy company, our goals are aligned with the upliftment of local communities, with a specific focus on youth development. Through everything we do, we energise society,” said Nivesh Lutchman, education and corporate social responsibility manager at Siemens Energy.

The partnership will not involve large capital outlays but a gradual investment through the periodic identification of RSA’s needs. Along the lengthy journey, success will be measured through annual goals ensuring funds are spent pragmatically.

“Working with local organisations that meet the necessary credentials is a priority. Our energising of society adds value to youth opportunities through sustainability,” added Nivesh.

Support will extend beyond the sports field as avenues will exist to promote the brightest brains. The German giant grant engineering and commercial bursaries annually, setting the less advantaged up for a career in the energy industry. Stressing only exemplary success, Nivesh said, “Siemens Energy is a company with a high-performance culture. Through our community work, we help develop skills that the nation needs.”

RSA’s mission is to create an athletic and educational haven for their community that prioritises the advancement of the youth.

“We appreciate organisations like Siemens Energy who invest their resources in social development. A kid playing sport is a kid not in jail and initiatives like this ensure a brighter future for children through social development,” said RSA coach, Madidimalo Rakabe.

Based at Voortrekker Park on Exner Street, RSA is struggling to keep their pitch match ready and could benefit greatly from a lawnmower as well as an improvement in their floodlighting. Appreciative of the forward steps, RSA coach Thabo Radebe concluded, “Thank you to Siemens Energy. We appreciate partnerships that have a long-term vision. Drugs and other social ills are rife in Roodepoort so this enables us to keep the kids playing.”