Mokoena’s Mission: 
Changing Lives Through Football
Author: Erica MathyeIn recent years, Mamelodi Sundowns has embraced the spirit of Ubuntu—living the value of giving back to the community. This culture has inspired many players to follow suit, launching their foundations to uplift and empower the places that shaped them.Just a month ago, ahead of their FIFA Club World Cup journey, Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfield maestro Teboho Mokoena kicked off the annual U16 Teboho Mokoena Foundation Tournament. This initiative, born from his foundation, is one of the many ways he gives back to Bethlehem, Free State — the town that nurtured him into the player and man he is today.
The Digital Magazine team caught up with Mokoena to discuss his youth-focused program, which uses sport and education to create opportunity. Reflecting on the foundation’s beginnings, he shared:
“The Teboho Mokoena Foundation was established in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. I realized I could make a difference, especially by helping with food relief. The foundation was created to give back to the community that supported me.”
This year’s tournament featured eight local schools from the Bohlokong Township to battle it out for the championship title and the chance to participate in life-enriching activities. The 28-year-old highlighted the tournament’s impact and his motivation:
“Bethlehem has been behind my career and backing me since day one. Giving back means opening doors for the youth in the community — opportunities we did not have growing up — and hoping they surpass what I have achieved.”
His favorite moment?
Talking about his favorite moment, “Seeing the community show up in large numbers, with kids excited to showcase their talents — that is the essence of this tournament. It is about steering them away from the streets and onto the path of discovery and opportunity."

The tournament also attracted Sundowns teammates, who came not just as spectators but as hands-on supporters. Mokoena emphasized the strong bonds forged beyond the pitch:
“Supporting each other as players through initiatives like tournaments and soccer clinics has become tradition. Our brotherhood runs deeper than the game. Being there for each other is everything.”
The Foundation is in its formative years and it is already producing inspiring success stories. 17-year-old Lebohang Maseou, named Player of the Tournament, earned a chance to be trained by the Sundowns Academy coaching staff. His talent and dedication secured him a spot in the U17 team, competing in provincial and national leagues. For Mokoena, Lebohang’s breakthrough is proof that the foundation is making a real difference:
“Lebohang’s journey shows the foundation’s vision is working — giving kids from small towns like Bethlehem a shot at a brighter future. His success motivates others to dream big and strive for the same.”

He also expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from the club leadership:
"I am thankful to the Chairman(Thlopie Motsepe) and Head of Academy, Mr. Paulo Cardoso, for embracing the idea from the start. Their presence at the tournament and commitment to scouting young talent turned a dream into reality for Lebohang."
Mamelodi Sundowns continues to champion those who dedicate themselves to community upliftment. Their commitment to Ubuntu-Botho goes beyond words — it is a living culture they embody every day.