Diepkloof youth gain world-class sports court for development and empowerment
Sports court was unveiled to empower youth through sport.
A partnership between Rhiza Babuyile, the Johan Cruyff Foundation and the Zodwa Khoza Foundation (ZKF) has led to the unveiling of the first Cruyff Court in Diepkloof at the Zodwa Khoza Foundation Skills and Entrepreneurial Development Centre on October 8.
The launch formed part of the celebration of Social Development Month and Mental Health Awareness Month.
The court will serve as a safe, world-class space designed to empower youth and the wider community through sport while addressing socio-economic challenges.
ZKF is a registered NPO dedicated to uplifting communities through programmes focused on youth and women empowerment, poverty alleviation, entrepreneurship, skills development and socio-economic justice.
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Founded in honour of the late Zodwa Khoza, the foundation continues her legacy of compassion, resilience and service. It has become a hub of transformation that bridges opportunities for vulnerable members of society.
“The court is an incredible donation because it will contribute towards the grassroots development of soccer among young people in the community.
“We believe that through this partnership we will be able to attract international partners who will help us invest in the lives of these children. We hope to see the next Jomo Sono come from using this court,” said ZKF chairperson Sonono Khoza.
She added that the court would benefit not only ZKF beneficiaries but the broader community. “We have a database of about 10 000 people, with some coming from as far as Limpopo and the Vaal,” she said.
Edwin van der Aar from the Johan Cruyff Foundation said, “We are here to give the youth an opportunity by handing over this new court.
“We hope it gives those who have a passion for football a chance to develop their skills and play at higher levels. It is important to give back to local communities and engage with them about the kind of future they want.”
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Soccer legends, including Kaizer Khoza, former Orlando Pirates defender and captain Happy Jele, as well as the Orlando Pirates players and technical team, attended the event.
“It is important for children to be inspired by seeing those who play professionally and by having access to a pitch that is lush and beautiful. I hope this motivates them to reach higher levels,” said Jele, adding that football requires hard work and dedication, but he hopes to see “the next Happy Jele” emerge from the community.
Mbuso Mdlalose (17), a midfielder for Zodwa Khoza FC, said he was excited about the new facility.
“This is a beautiful court that was donated to us. It means we can dedicate more time to practice, and we promise to take good care of it.”
