Well-known PSL referee Jelly Chavani launched his own foundation, called the Jelly Chavani Foundation, on Tuesday, 2 August. The foundation focuses on education, sport, and economic development in rural areas.
Less privileged primary- and high-school learners from remote villages will be able to apply for bursaries offered by the foundation. This will also extend to university students, if funds are available.
"We felt there was a need to start a fund to support indigent learners. This community carries a heavy burden of poverty, unemployment and illiteracy. Apart from assisting rural villages, the foundation will also extend its services to the whole of the Vhembe area as soon as we have raised enough funds," Chavani said.
He said that the foundation considered encouraging the youth to study further important. "Education is the key to prosperity, and we need to strive harder to educate our nation," he said.
The launch was attended by traditional leaders, Cllr Ruth Makhuvele from Makhado Municipality, various school principals, pastors from different churches, and community members.
Pastor Lucky Maluleke congratulated Chavani on throwing the doors of learning wide open to all.
Cllr Ruth Makhubele said that she was happy with the formation of the foundation and praised the young Chavani for ploughing back into the rural areas.