In sporting terms, things went very well in May: our soccer teams got off to a good start to the season and showed a stable team spirit and very pleasing performances in their first matches. It was particularly pleasing to see that the young players showed great discipline and a real understanding of the game – great proof that our work on and off the pitch is bearing fruit. The atmosphere within the organization was at least as pleasing: Young Bafana had a particularly harmonious atmosphere in May. The positive energy was palpable in every training session, at meetings and even in the day-to-day organization.
Jack’s fundraising campaign was a particularly nice surprise. He independently collected donations for Young Bafana with his school and his family. An initiative like this means far more to us than just financial support. It shows how much our work inspires and connects people across national borders. We would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to Jack – you are a real role model!
Another highlight of the month was the visit of a group of students from Groningen in the Netherlands. The international students were welcomed with open arms and were given an insight into the work of Young Bafana. They were given exciting insights into our daily work and were able to form their own impression of our projects and goals. In return, we benefited from their outside perspective, their questions and impulses. The crowning glory of the month was our big anniversary tournament: 15 years of Young Bafana! A milestone that we celebrated with a soccer tournament that had it all. Teams from very different backgrounds came together and played passionate matches. But it wasn’t just about sporting ambition: the team spirit, the encounters on the sidelines and the many great conversations made this event something special. We celebrated in the best weather with great guests who share our vision. Many from South Africa also joined in the celebrations and sent their greetings. It was a day that reminded us why we do what we do and how much we can achieve together.
