A milestone built on service and community
Six years after its launch, the Kolisi Foundation has reached a moment of reflection — and recommitment.
For Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, the anniversary wasn’t just another date on the calendar. It was a reminder of why the journey began in the first place: to serve communities facing some of South Africa’s toughest social challenges.
Taking to Instagram, Kolisi kept his message simple but powerful — the work continues, and there is still much to do.
“We won’t stop” — a message of persistence
In his anniversary message, Kolisi expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the foundation’s work, from partners on the ground to staff and board members.
But the heart of his message was forward-looking. The foundation, he said, is not slowing down — it is pushing ahead with even more determination.
The tone reflects a broader reality in South Africa’s social landscape: the need for long-term, sustained community support rather than short-term interventions.
Built on four pillars of impact
Since its launch in 2020, the Kolisi Foundation has focused on four core areas:
- Education and sport development
- Food security
- Gender-based violence (GBV) support
- Community upliftment programmes
These pillars guide its work in vulnerable communities across the country, particularly in under-resourced areas where access to basic services remains limited.
Ground-level impact in communities
One of the foundation’s most notable areas of work has been in Zwide, Gqeberha, where programmes have supported families through food relief, education support, and youth development initiatives.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the foundation also expanded emergency food distribution efforts, stepping in at a time when many households were under severe pressure.
Beyond immediate relief, the organisation has focused on longer-term solutions — including improving school infrastructure and creating opportunities for young people through sport and education programmes.
Tackling gender-based violence
The foundation’s work in addressing gender-based violence has also become a key part of its identity.
Through awareness campaigns, partnerships with shelters, and survivor-focused initiatives, the organisation has worked to strengthen community response systems and support those affected.
In a country where GBV remains a national crisis, this focus has made the foundation’s work especially relevant and urgent.
A moment of transition behind the scenes
The anniversary also comes during a period of change. In 2025, co-founder Rachel Kolisi stepped down as CEO of the foundation.
Her departure marked a shift in leadership, following her divorce from Siya Kolisi. While handled privately, the transition naturally drew public attention given her central role in building the organisation from the ground up.
Despite the leadership change, the foundation has continued its work across its programmes and partnerships.
Public reaction: pride and reflection
Social media reactions to the anniversary have largely been positive, with many South Africans praising the foundation’s ongoing contribution to communities that are often overlooked.
For supporters, the Kolisi Foundation represents more than charity — it’s seen as a symbol of leadership rooted in lived experience and national responsibility.
Others have highlighted the importance of consistency in social development work, noting that lasting change takes time, structure, and sustained commitment.
Looking ahead: the work is far from done
Six years in, the message from the Kolisi Foundation is not one of completion, but continuation.
The needs it was created to address — education gaps, food insecurity, and gender-based violence — remain deeply present in many communities.
And as Siya Kolisi made clear, the mission is still in motion.
Not finished. Not slowing down. Just moving forward, one community at a time.
Also see: SABC’s Natasha Phiri suspended after revelations at Madlanga Commission
{Source: IOL}
Featured Image: X{@cgtnafrica}
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