The UK Launch of the Aaron Mokoena Foundation took place at the South African High Commission, London on 27th January 2010

 

South Africa House, Trafalgar Square was host to the launch of the Aaron Mokoena Foundation. Aaron Mokoena captain of Portsmouth FC and South Africa fittingly launched his UK Foundation at the historic South Africa House on Wednesday 27th January.

To a packed audience which included a number of High Commissioners, business leaders, football fraternity, representation from South Africa Trustees, Sedibeng Municipality (SA) and members of the Press, Aaron Mokoena passionately outlined the reasons for establishing his Foundation.

“I believe that Football has a unique power to bring all people, but particularly young people, together Football can transform lives, it transformed mine.”

Football can be used to teach young people important life skills and promote the importance of education.   It teaches young people the value of teamwork, determination and discipline and of course it can help to build stronger and safer communities. South Africa and the continent of Africa need doctors, teachers, builders, and administrators.  Football has a role in contributing to develop the workforce and citizens of the future. The future of Africa lies with young people. This is why I set up my Foundation”

2010 is a year of great hope for South Africa with the World Cup coming to the African continent for the very first time. It is a year in which the world will truly experience the unifying power of football and a great time to be launching this charity

The focus of the Foundation’s work encompasses:

·        Provision of high quality football coaching programmes to young people in South Africa

·        Using football to deliver key skills to young people focusing on health, fitness and well-being

·        Supporting and encouraging educational attainment

·        Build the confidence and self esteem of young people

·        Developing football as a force for social cohesion and as a vehicle for positive change

·        Establishing local leagues

·        Assisting in the development of modern football facilities

HE Dr Zola Skweyiya, SA High Commissioner said of Aaron “Aaron is a role model and a credit to his country. I wish him every success with his Foundation and know that he will do everything possible to lift the World Cup for South Africa”

In his address to the audience, Peter Storrie CEO Portsmouth FC commended the Portsmouth captain

“Aaron Mokoena is a fantastic player for us, and this is shown by his attitude on and off the field, hence we handed over the captain’s armband to him immediately after joining Portsmouth. When you support someone like him you know that you he will give you back 100% in return.”

Members of the Press attended a pre arranged Press Conference and coverage of the event was substantial through TV, radio and the written press. Please view Media Lab for press coverage.

For more information about how you can become involved with the Foundation, email aaronmokoenafoundation@live.co.uk