A prestigious gathering in the heart of London has delivered a massive financial injection into South African grassroots development. The fifth annual Steadfast Africa fundraising gala has raised over R2.5 million—and counting—in a single evening to support the vital work of the Kolisi Foundation and the Good Work Foundation (GWF).
Held at the historic Chelsea Physic Garden, the high-profile event united an influential international community of philanthropists, business leaders, and sports personalities. With an online auction and raffle remaining live until July 8, the final fundraising total is expected to climb significantly higher.
Since its inception, this annual gala has stood as a beacon of global collaboration, backing innovative, community-led initiatives designed to dismantle systemic inequality and unlock future-ready opportunities for vulnerable South Africans.
“I Am Not a Self-Made Man” — Siya Kolisi’s Powerful Message
For double Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok captain and Kolisi Foundation co-founder, Siya Kolisi, the success of the gala is deeply personal. Reflecting on the international support, the inspirational skipper emphasized that his own journey was paved by the generosity of others.
“I am not a self-made man,” Kolisi stated. “I am here because people invested in me. They saw something in me, opened doors for me, and gave me opportunities I could never have created on my own.
Today, through the Kolisi Foundation, we want to do the same for others. Partnerships like this remind us that lasting change is never the work of one person or one organization. It is built by people who choose to invest in the potential of others.”
Reimagining Education in Rural South Africa
The funds will also significantly scale the digital footprint of the Good Work Foundation. Operating cutting-edge digital learning campuses across underserved, rural areas, GWF is actively bridging the digital divide by equipping children, young adults, and local entrepreneurs with critical digital literacy.
GWF CEO Kate Groch expressed profound gratitude to the global donors who made the London event a resounding success:
“Good Work Foundation is able to serve the communities we work in because of the support of our partners; they are an integral part of our Pink family. We are grateful for our partnership with Steadfast and how it continues to grow. Together we will continue to do good work and reimagine education and opportunity for young rural South Africans.”
Changing the Narrative: What the Foundations Achieve
| Foundation | Core Focus Areas | Key Strategic Initiatives |
| The Kolisi Foundation | Food Security, Education, Sport, Youth Empowerment & GBV Awareness | Strengthening vulnerable communities, creating pathways for youth, and structural advocacy. |
| Good Work Foundation | Bridging the Digital Divide, Rural Literacy & Skills Development | Operating digital learning campuses, teacher development, and vocational training for the modern economy. |
