In a powerful fusion of philanthropy and football legacy, former
Zimbabwe international and Mamelodi Sundowns icon Esrom Nyandoro has
officially launched the Esrom Nyandoro Foundation, pledging to transform
lives through education and sport.
The foundation was unveiled at a prestigious gala dinner at the Four Seasons
Hotel West Cliff on December 13, an event that underscored Nyandoro’s deep
personal commitment to giving back.
Foundation Manager Vimbai Andreas outlined ambitious plans, revealing that
after successfully supporting 60 learners in 2025, the target is to reach
over 200 youngsters in 2026 and beyond. This support uniquely blends
academic bursaries with structured football development.
“In addition to education support, the foundation announced the introduction
of football training camps in 2026, aimed at identifying and nurturing young
talent from disadvantaged communities while instilling discipline, life
skills and mentorship,” Andreas told PSLSA.
The gala dinner produced one of its most emotional moments when current
bursary beneficiaries took the stage. Many met Nyandoro in person for the
first time, delivering heartfelt speeches about how his intervention had
reopened doors to an education they thought were permanently closed.
Nyandoro, whose journey from poverty to professional football inspired the
foundation’s mission, moved the gathering with his own story.
“I grew up in poverty, sharing two rooms with a big family. I played
football barefoot on dusty streets and worried more about surviving than
dreaming. Football saved me, and education sustained me. Today, I am trying
to give a child the chance I once prayed for,” he said.
In a remarkable display of commitment, Nyandoro is funding this mission
through personal sacrifice. He has already raised R50,000 by selling signed
memorabilia. The crowning item is the historic jersey he wore when he scored
his famous goal for Sundowns, a piece of African football history now on
auction. With a current offer of R120,000 and a valuation of R200,000, all
proceeds are dedicated to covering school fees for January 2026.
“There is a child right now who cannot celebrate Christmas because they are
worried about whether they will return to school in January. This foundation
exists to change that reality,” Nyandoro stated, emphasizing sustainable
impact over short-term aid.
By bringing together football stakeholders, business leaders, and community
partners, the launch highlighted sport’s profound role in social
development. Now, through the Esrom Nyandoro Foundation, a legend is using
his legacy not just to create players, but to build futures.
