In an exciting new development for grassroots rugby in South Africa, Suzuki Auto South Africa has launched an inspiring corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of rugby stars. Partnering with the Humanitarian Empowerment Fund (HEF), the Japanese automotive giant is set to bring a nine-month programme to the schools of Gauteng’s West Rand. The initiative will focus on training, developing, and promoting young talent in Rugby Sevens, with the ultimate goal of preparing them for the competitive world of professional sport.
A Shared Passion for Sport and Development
Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager of Suzuki Auto South Africa, expressed the brand’s enthusiasm for this new venture, underscoring how integral sport has been to Suzuki’s legacy. “Sport has always been something close to the brand’s heart,” says Carpenter. “Last year, we proudly became the naming sponsor of the Griqualand West Rugby Union (GWRU), home of the Griquas, a momentous partnership that celebrated top-tier rugby. However, we understand that the journey of a rugby star begins long before they step onto the professional stage. This is why we’re excited to team up with HEF and support grassroots rugby development.”
The partnership with the HEF reflects Suzuki’s commitment to not only supporting elite teams but also giving a leg up to aspiring players from disadvantaged communities. The programme is set to run from April to December and will pilot at four schools in the West Rand region: Newclare Primary, Everest Primary, Dowling Primary, and Claremont Primary. If the initiative proves successful, Suzuki and HEF hope to extend the programme to more schools across Gauteng.
More Than Just Rugby Training
The focus of this initiative goes beyond skill development on the rugby field. Carpenter explains, “Aside from nurturing young talent, the project also aims to promote healthy lifestyle choices and impart essential life skills. Through rugby, we hope to teach discipline, teamwork, and resilience, which will help the children in all aspects of their lives.”
To further motivate the young players, Suzuki and HEF will host two annual competitions under the banner of the Suzuki Sevens Development Tournament. This exciting tournament will not only provide an opportunity for players to showcase their talents but also expose them to a wider audience, inspiring both the participants and the local community.
A Seamless Partnership for Logistics
Ensuring the smooth running of such a programme requires more than just coaching expertise. To support logistics, Suzuki Auto South Africa is providing two of its versatile Ertiga MPVs. These seven-seater multi-purpose vehicles will be used to transport players and supplies between training sessions and competitions. The Ertiga, one of Suzuki’s best-selling models, is powered by a 77kW/138Nm 1.5-litre petrol engine, offering a practical blend of performance and efficiency. With flexible seating configurations and ample luggage space, the Ertiga is the ideal vehicle for the job.
“We’re confident that the Ertigas will prove to be perfect teammates,” says Carpenter. “Not only are they practical, with excellent running costs, but they also embody the values of reliability and teamwork that are central to this initiative.”
A Bright Future for South African Rugby
Clete Stevis, Founder and Director of the HEF, is equally optimistic about the programme’s potential impact. “We are excited to have Suzuki Auto South Africa as a sponsor and partner in this venture,” says Stevis. “I have faith in the programme we are developing, and I firmly believe it will help uncover a new generation of future Springboks. Watch this space!”
This new collaboration is just the latest in Suzuki Auto South Africa’s ongoing commitment to supporting grassroots sports. Since 2022, the brand has been involved with the Imvuselelo Sporting Organisation, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) based in Thembisa, dedicated to getting young people onto the soccer field and away from the perils of crime and substance abuse. Suzuki has supported this initiative by contributing to prizes, paying referees, and assisting with the upkeep of the organisation’s football pitch.
Building a Legacy
By supporting young athletes at the grassroots level, Suzuki Auto South Africa is playing a pivotal role in developing the future stars of South African sport. The collaboration with HEF is more than just about rugby; it’s a step towards fostering a brighter, healthier, and more resilient future for youth across the West Rand. As the programme continues to grow, there’s no doubt that it will have a lasting impact on the rugby landscape—and who knows? Perhaps the future of South African rugby’s next superstar is already in the making.
