(18 July 2022, Johannesburg) This Mandela Day, the South African Breweries (SAB), in partnership with the SAB Foundation, is rewarding its unsung heroes who are making a difference in their own communities.
“This year’s theme is ‘supporting our people doing extraordinary things’,” explains Bridgit Evans, Director of the SAB Foundation. “SAB employees were invited to submit volunteer initiatives that they are actively involved in for a chance to win between R10 000 and R50 000 in funding towards their project.”
Some of these initiatives addressed substance abuse, gender-based violence, education, unemployment, sport, orphan care and art and creativity. The most predominant theme was feeding the hungry and providing sanitary towels for girls so they don’t miss school.
“We are so proud of our own heroes who are taking up leadership roles in their communities,” says Evans. “We received applications from all across the country, both rural and urban, which was so encouraging to see.”
“Of the 65 applications that were received, we were able to shortlist 37,” reports Evans. “It became clear however that it was both arbitrary and unfair to choose one over another, as all applicants are making a difference. We decided to award each applicant with funding amounts between R10 000 and R50 000, which were determined by the nature of the requests.”
“The aim of the internal volunteer drive was to recognise employees who are empowering vulnerable people across South Africa,” says Zoleka Lisa, VP of Corporate Affairs. “SAB and the SAB Foundation are truly inspired by their own active citizens, and hope to encourage more changemakers who will step up and create the change they want to see.”
“Change starts with each and every one of us,” she concludes. “We salute these selfless individuals and hope that they will continue with their efforts in making a real difference in their communities.”
