How Springbok Stars Are Giving Back To Their Communities

Holifil

01 Apr, 2025

Many current and former Springbok players have established foundations aimed at uplifting local fans and their communities.
Briefly News explored some of the charitable organizations founded by these rugby legends, showcasing their dedication to giving back.
These organizations focus on feeding the hungry, supporting aspiring athletes, and providing aid to those affected by abuse.

World champion winger Cheslin Kolbe has joined the ranks of fellow Bok stars in launching his charitable organization. This move highlights how even at the pinnacle of success, these athletes remain grounded and committed to making a difference. Let's take a closer look at what drives these incredible individuals.

The Kolbe Foundation, established by Cheslin Kolbe and his wife Layla early in 2024, aims to uplift underprivileged communities across South Africa. Through this foundation, the couple hopes to create opportunities for those who might not otherwise have them, ensuring that everyone gets a fair shot at life.

Bok stars Siya Kolisi and Cheslin Kolbe are leading the charge in giving back to their communities. Photo credit: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images. Source: Getty Images

Cheslin Kolbe is just one name on a growing list of rugby greats who have set up charitable foundations. Current captain Siya Kolisi, along with former legends like Tendai Mtawarira and Bryan Habana, have all taken steps to ensure their legacies extend far beyond the rugby field.

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Big Hearts on and Off the Field

Briefly News has taken an in-depth look at the foundations created by some of South Africa’s rugby heroes. These initiatives highlight the players' commitment to using their platforms for good, proving that their impact extends well beyond the game itself.

Siya Kolisi - Kolisi Foundation

Siya Kolisi, alongside his wife Rachel, founded the Kolisi Foundation in 2019 with a clear mission: to tackle inequality in South Africa. The foundation has already made significant strides through numerous projects, including partnerships with major corporations like KFC. This collaboration ensures that no child goes hungry, addressing one of the country's most pressing issues. It's inspiring to see how Kolisi uses his status as a national icon to drive meaningful change.

Cheslin Kolbe - Kolbe Foundation

Building on the success of similar ventures, Cheslin Kolbe and his wife Layla launched the Kolbe Foundation earlier this year. Their focus is on nurturing young athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing them with the resources and support needed to excel. At their recent event, the foundation attracted some of South Africa's biggest sporting names, including UFC champion Dricus du Plessis and Olympic gold medalist Wayde van Niekerk. This gathering underscored the importance of collaboration in achieving common goals.

Tendai Mtawarira - Beast Foundation

Named after his famous nickname, Tendai Mtawarira’s Beast Foundation offers a wide range of programs aimed at empowering aspiring athletes. From foreign exchange programs to rugby boot camps and scholarships, the foundation provides pathways for young talent to shine. In addition, Mtawarira has partnered with global music icon Jay-Z to expand his foundation's reach, bringing hope and opportunity to communities both locally and internationally.

Bryan Habana - Habana Foundation

As a former World Rugby Player of the Year and Laureus Sports Ambassador, Bryan Habana has long been a beacon of excellence. His foundation, established in 2015, focuses on empowering impoverished communities through education and sports. During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation stepped up by organizing food drives to ensure families had access to basic necessities. This resilience and adaptability demonstrate Bryan's unwavering commitment to those in need.

Siya Kolisi Excites Fans with Return to South Africa

In other news, Briefly News reported that Siya Kolisi has thrilled fans by rejoining the Sharks ahead of the United Rugby Championship. This move signals a renewed focus on elevating South African rugby and inspiring the next generation of players.

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Sharks director of rugby Neil Powell expressed his excitement about having Kolisi back in the fold. He believes the flanker's leadership and experience will play a crucial role in guiding the team toward greater achievements. With Kolisi at the helm, the Sharks are poised to make waves in the rugby world once again.