Mamelodi Sundowns Players Join the Motsepe Foundation to share Christmas Cheers

IMAGES © Mamelodi Sundowns Media

Author: John Aliu

The Motsepe Foundation Christmas Toy Drive which is distributes toys around South Africa is never about toys alone. It is about dignity, hope and the belief that every child—regardless of circumstance—deserves to feel seen, valued and celebrated during the festive season.

At the recent Christmas Toy Drive held in Mamelodi, that belief came alive in colour, laughter, and unforgettable smiles. Thousands of children gathered as the Motsepe Foundation—guided by the vision of Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe and Dr Patrice Motsepe, CAF President—transformed the area into a space of joy, generosity, and shared humanity, where the true spirit of Christmas was felt in every smile and every moment.

For the Motsepes, giving is not symbolic—it is intentional. Each toy distributed is carefully selected to spark creativity, imagination and confidence, recognising that for many children, it may be their first personal possession. A small gift, carrying a powerful message: you matter.

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Grant Kekana, who attended alongside several players, described the day as deeply fulfilling.

“It felt good—always nice to engage with the kids and see those beautiful smiles. We give thanks to the Motsepe Foundation and the Motsepe family for giving back to Mamelodi and ensuring these children have a special Christmas.”

Beyond the excitement, the experience carried personal meaning for the Sundowns defender.

“They see us on TV, but for them to see us up close—it reminds us that we are humans first. It creates a real connection, one that goes beyond football. Being able to share that moment with the kids, see their joy and feel their energy made it a lovely experience and a truly great time.”

As founder of the Grant Kekana Foundation, which empowers communities through education, sport and youth development, Kekana said the humility shown by the Motsepes left a lasting impression.

“To see the President of CAF and Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe still humble themselves to serve—it truly inspires me. It reminds me that no matter how far you go, staying grounded and connected to people is what really matters. Experiences like this motivate me to keep giving back and to use my platform to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.”

Sundowns Ladies defender Bambanani Mbane was full of emotion as she reflected on the experience and its lasting impact.

“Seeing the kids receive gifts and the smiles on their faces—it is priceless. Those moments stay with you long after the day ends. It reminds you how something so simple can mean so much, and how important it is for us, as players and as people, to give back and be present in our communities.”

For the Motsepe Foundation, true impact lies not in numbers, but in moments—the laughter of a child, the pride of holding something new and the warmth of being remembered.

This Christmas, the Foundation once again proved that the greatest gift is not what is given, but what is felt: joy, belonging and hope.

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