Former Mamelodi Sundowns legend and Zimbabwe international Esrom
Nyandoro has officially launched a powerful new initiative aimed at changing
lives, using the twin engines of education and football.
The Esrom Nyandoro Foundation was unveiled at a prestigious gala dinner at
the Four Seasons Hotel West Cliff on December 13, marking a significant
commitment to social development.
Building on Early Success, Aiming Higher
Foundation Manager Vimbai Andreas revealed the organization’s ambitious
goals in an exclusive interview with PSLSA. After successfully supporting 60
learners in 2025, the foundation is targeting over 200 beneficiaries in 2026
and beyond.
“We are combining academic assistance with structured football development,”
Andreas explained. “In addition to education support, we will introduce
football training camps in 2026 aimed at identifying and nurturing young
talent from disadvantaged communities, while instilling discipline, life
skills, and mentorship.”
A Night of Emotion and Inspiration
The gala’s most poignant moment came when current bursary recipients took
the stage. Many met their benefactor, Nyandoro, for the first time,
delivering heartfelt speeches about how his intervention granted them access
to an education they once thought impossible.
Nyandoro, whose journey from poverty to professional football fuels his
passion, shared his motivation with the gathered guests.
“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,” he said. “Football saved me, and education sustained me. Today, I
am trying to give a child the chance I once prayed for.”
Personal Sacrifice for a Greater Goal
To fund this vision, Nyandoro is parting with treasured pieces of his
career. The sale of signed memorabilia has already raised R50,000 for school
fees. A historic item remains on auction: the jersey he wore when he scored
his famous continental goal for Sundowns. Currently with an offer of
R120,000 and valued at R200,000, all proceeds are dedicated to covering
school fees for January 2026.
A Legacy of Sustainable Impact
The event united football stakeholders, business leaders, and community
partners, highlighting sport’s role in driving social change. Nyandoro, a
Sundowns servant for over two decades as player, scout, and now coach,
stressed the foundation’s long-term vision.
“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.”
With education as its core mission and football as its driving force, the
Esrom Nyandoro Foundation is poised to create a lasting legacy, proving that
the beautiful game’s true power lies in building futures, not just players.
