26 June 2024: 10bet South Africa handed over football kits and training equipment to Ivory Development Academy, a local club based in Orlando East. This marks the fourth handover since the inception of the program aimed at supporting the development of football and netball in communities.
Ivory Development Academy, founded by Mbongeni Zondo in 2017, is dedicated to supporting and developing local talent in Orlando East. The academy caters for both football and netball. The commitment from the Academy has seen success, with their developing talent reaching semi-professional levels and being selected to play in the AB Motsepe League, as well as for Wits University and Jomo Cosmos football clubs.
Chairman of Ivory Development Academy, Mbongeni Zondo, expressed his gratitude, saying, “We are thankful to 10bet for their generous contribution. Nothing brings a smile to teams like wearing a new kit with their club’s name on it. It brings a sense of dignity and belonging to them and motivates them to work harder at improving their skills. As an organization, we appreciate the efforts made by 10bet in our community.”
“At 10bet, we believe in the power of sports and education to transform lives. Our commitment goes beyond providing top-notch betting services; it extends to fostering positive change and supporting the aspirations of the communities we operate in. Gear Up Ikasi embodies this commitment. We are thrilled to be here in Orlando East with these brilliant young people, enthusiastic about their talent,” said Zanele Nhlapo, PR & CSR Manager at 10bet.
The initiative has been supporting Gauteng communities with sporting material since November 2023. Although the focus has been on the Gauteng Region, the organisation is excited about the future as they plan to expand Gear Up Ikasi to other provinces.
“Gear Up Ikasi is not just about the physical equipment; it is about the message it sends to our community members. It tells them that they are seen, valued, and supported. It tells them that their dreams are within reach, and they have a community and a brand that believes in their potential,” concluded Nhlapo.
